When it comes to all things arts and entertainment, UCLA has a major advantage over other universities: proximity. Sure, Los Angeles is home to Hollywood culture, prominent museums and the famous Theater Row; but the immediate UCLA radius hosts an impressive concentration of movie screenings, concerts, exclusive premieres, exhibitions, dances and other events. What’s more, many are totally free. So while the incoming class of UCLA students may be familiar with names like the Roxy, the Wiltern, MOCA and the Kodak Theater, here’s a new list worth getting excited about.
The Getty Museum
The Getty Museum is not only a place for tourists to take photos of an artfully manicured garden or a spectacular view of downtown Los Angeles, but it is also one of the premier art institutions in the United States. A visit to the Getty can include sightings of work by Rembrandt van Rijn, Ansel Adams, Vincent Van Gogh, Gustav Klimt and Auguste Rodin. The Getty hosts bands with its “Saturdays Off the 405″ concert series and the annual College Night, open to all college students. The best part: admission is free.
The Hill
With about 10,000 students living on the Hill, Covel Commons’ Grand Horizon Ballroom frequently hosts social events for those living on- and off-campus. From talent shows to networking nights hosted by the Undergraduate Business Society and events put on by UCLA’s Office of Residential Life, the ballroom is utilized to give students living in the dorms opportunities “closer to home.” Last year: forensic anthropology workshop, “free food for finals,” casino night.
North Campus
North Campus is home to MacGowan Hall, the Broad Art Center, Schoenberg Hall and the Murphy Sculpture Garden. Already possessing an artsy vibe, the northern part of campus also hosts an abundance of cultural shows. Theater students put on performances throughout the year in both the MacGowan Hall Little Theater and the Ralph Freud Playhouse. Broad hosts many graduate art exhibitions, and last year, Flying Lotus and Baths played there. Schoenberg Hall also plays host to many student instrumental music performances over the course of the year.
Wilson Plaza
At first glance, the bottom of Janss Steps looks like an empty Wilson Plaza filled with people playing Frisbee, walking their dog or getting their morning exercise. But it is also where the Fowler Museum and the Glorya Kaufman Hall stand. The Fowler frequently hosts exhibitions that explore multicultural art and archaeological finds. It also hosts performances with its Fowler Out Loud series as well as hands-on workshops.
Royce Hall
One of the landmarks that UCLA is known for, Royce Hall, hosts concerts and other special events, both UCLA and non-UCLA related. With performers ranging from the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra to the U.S. premiere of the Final Fantasy Distant Worlds Tour, Royce Hall hosts events that attract an audience of UCLA students and many more. Last year: David Sedaris, Maya Angelou and editors of The Onion. This year: They Might Be Giants, Joan Didion.
Kerckhoff Hall
Kerckhoff Hall is not only known for supplying students with their daily caffeine through its coffeehouse, but also for events held in the Kerckhoff Art Gallery and in Kerckhoff Grand Salon. Campus clubs and organizations use the Art Gallery and Salon to host speakers, performers and dance nights. Last year: Best Coast.
Bruin Plaza
While the inside of Ackerman Union stays busy throughout the day, the outdoor Bruin Plaza also hosts its fair share of events. With a convenient outdoor stage, it is a popular concert venue. Last year, Local Natives, a band which includes two UCLA alumni, performed for an enthusiastic crowd of students. On an even more local note, school clubs and organizations have hosted free shows to entertain those on their way to class. In addition to spontaneous shows, these clubs host information tables so students have the chance to enjoy some tunes and, perhaps, become involved in campus life. Last year: Fool’s Gold.
Ackerman Grand Ballroom
While Ackerman Union commonly attracts students for its bookstore, eateries and conference rooms, it is also home to the Grand Ballroom, which functions as a popular venue throughout the year. The demand for the Ballroom is so high that organizations wanting to book the venue have to reserve their spot up to a year in advance. Last spring, Diplo, Nosaj Thing and Dillon Francis took over the ballroom and brought UCLA a sold out concert. In the past, the Ballroom has hosted the annual Dance Marathon, free concerts and guest speakers. Last year: Joseph Gordon-Levitt and the Campus Movie Fest Finale. This year: “Real Steel” sneak peek (today).
Fox Theatre and Bruin Theatre
In the heart of Westwood Village stand two theaters across the street from one another, both within walking distance for most UCLA students who want to catch the latest movies and premieres. When red carpets are rolled out for the frequent Hollywood premieres, students and fans alike line up along the streets to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars. Midnight screenings of highly anticipated films regularly draw a substantial student audience. Both theaters, for example, hosted midnight showings of Harry Potter films. In the past: premieres for “Twilight: New Moon,” “Mr. and Mrs. Smith,” and “Rango.”
Hammer Museum
The Hammer is one of three museums located just a few minutes away from the UCLA campus. The Hammer hosts exhibitions, screenings, guest curators and performances year-round. Two years ago, Michael Cera did an exclusive screening of “Youth in Revolt” followed by a Q&A session for his fans. With free admission for students, the museum is an affordable and accessible way for students to encounter art ranging from video installations to lithographs and photography. Past exhibitions have featured artists including Catherine Opie and Edvard Munch. Its permanent collection is home to sketches by Honore De Daumier and paintings by John Singer Sargent.
Sports Arenas
UCLA takes advantage of not only its intimate indoor venues, but also its outdoor and larger venues for special engagements. The Bruin Bash concert has been held at venues including the Los Angeles Tennis Center, Pauley Pavilion and Drake Stadium. The Intramural Field is also where UCLA hosts the JazzReggae Festival every May. Last year, UCLA’s annual talent show extravaganza Spring Sing was held at the Los Angeles Tennis Center.