BRITS IN LA

REVIEW: PICASSO: LE MONSTRE SACRÉ - WITH BRITISH ACTOR PETER TATE

2026-05-10T14:18:00.000-07:00

Peter Tate as Picasso - Photo by
Brigitta Scholz Mastroianni/
NUX Photography

At the Odyssey Theatre, Picasso: Le Monstre Sacré arrives like a provocation rather than a conventional biographical drama. Directed by Olivier Award-winner Guy Masterson and adapted by Peter Tate and Masterson from Terri D’Alfonso’s The Loves of Picasso, the production strips away sentimentality in favour of confrontation, asking audiences to wrestle with the uncomfortable divide between artistic genius and personal destruction.

Peter Tate’s performance is extraordinary. Any actor capable of sustaining a multi-character monologue for ninety minutes deserves admiration, but Tate elevates the form into something electrifying. Channeling the ferocious intensity of Steven Berkoff with flashes of Anthony Hopkins’ psychological precision, he commands the stage with total authority. At times seductive, at times monstrous, his Picasso is never reduced to caricature. Instead, Tate presents a man intoxicated by his own brilliance, unapologetically defending the damage inflicted on the women orbiting his life and art.

The production’s greatest achievement lies in its refusal to offer easy judgment. Picasso addresses the audience as though standing trial, demanding that we decide whether artistic greatness absolves moral failure. Tate handles these shifts in tone masterfully, moving between arrogance, charm, cruelty and vulnerability with unnerving fluidity. The effect is mesmerizing.

Equally effective is the production’s technical design. The soundscape and visual elements heighten the emotional volatility of the piece without overwhelming it. On-screen performances by Sandra Collodel, Claudia Godi, Margot Sikabonyi and Milena Vukotic create haunting echoes of the women Picasso consumed and discarded, while Eirini Kariori’s costume and set design provide a stark, elegant frame for Tate’s relentless performance.

The acclaim surrounding the production is well deserved. British critics have described it as “marvelous, brilliant, enthralling” and “an artistic and theatrical masterpiece,” and those accolades feel entirely earned in this Los Angeles engagement.

Running for only two weeks at the Odyssey Theatre, Picasso: Le Monstre Sacré is not comfortable viewing, nor should it be. It is a fierce, intelligent examination of genius, ego and moral compromise, anchored by a towering solo performance from Peter Tate that burns long after the lights go down.

8/10

Odyssey Theatre Ensemble presents Peter Tate in Picasso: Le Monstre Sacré
May 8 – May 17
Odyssey Theatre, 2055 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles
Tickets: $15–$35
OdysseyTheatre.com | (310) 477-2055 ext. 2

HYMN REVIEW at THE ODYSSEY THEATRE

2026-05-04T12:02:00.000-07:00

At the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles, Hymn arrives with an impressive pedigree and an intimate theatrical promise: two actors, a bare stage, and a story built almost entirely on language, rhythm, and connection. Written by Lolita Chakrabarti—whose stage adaptation of Life of Pi won multiple Olivier Awards and who also adapted Hamnet in London—the play reflects a writer with a remarkable ear for dialogue and a deep understanding of human connection. Under the assured direction of Gregg T. Daniels, this U.S. premiere leans into those strengths, delivering a thoughtful and often moving evening of theatre.

Hymn centers on two men, Gil (Chuma Gault) and Benny (Jason Delane), who meet at a funeral and form an unexpected bond. What begins as casual conversation gradually deepens into something more complex, as both men navigate grief, masculinity, identity, and the quiet ways people try to connect. Chakrabarti structures the play through a series of conversations that feel both naturalistic and heightened, blending humor with emotional honesty.

The writing is unquestionably the production’s strongest element. Chakrabarti’s dialogue has a musicality—sometimes playful, sometimes probing—that keeps the audience engaged even in the absence of elaborate staging. There’s a confidence in the script that allows silence to carry meaning, and when the emotional beats land, they do so with precision. It’s easy to see why Chakrabarti’s work has garnered such acclaim; her voice here is intelligent, resonant, and deeply human.

Gregg T. Daniels’ direction serves the material well. With only two actors on a small stage, the production relies on movement and spatial awareness to maintain visual interest. The choreography—subtle shifts in position, moments of stillness, and carefully staged interactions—works effectively without overshadowing the text. Daniels wisely keeps the focus on the relationship, allowing the dialogue to shine.

Performance-wise, the production is slightly uneven but still compelling. Chuma Gault, as Gil, is sublime. His performance is grounded, nuanced, and emotionally rich, anchoring the play with quiet authority. He listens as well as he speaks, and that presence gives the piece its emotional weight. His accent is also spot on!

Jason Delane, as Benny, is clearly a strong actor, and there are moments where his charisma and instincts come through. However, the accent work is inconsistent and often unconvincing, which becomes a recurring distraction. It pulls you out of the play at key moments, undermining the otherwise strong foundation of the production. It’s frustrating because the talent is evident—this feels less like a limitation of ability and more like a lack of fully realized character work. If he continues to work on his accent skills, I'm sure it will get much better with time.

Despite this, the chemistry between the two actors is strong enough to sustain the central relationship, and the emotional core of the play remains intact. When the production connects, it does so with honesty and grace.

The play runs approximately 90 minutes with no intermission, which suits its intimacy and momentum perfectly.

Ultimately, Hymn is a well-crafted, dialogue-driven piece that showcases the power of language and connection. It may not be flawless, but its strengths—particularly Chakrabarti’s writing and Gault’s performance—make it a worthwhile and engaging theatrical experience.

Rating: 8/10

WHEN:

April 29 – June 14

• Performances: May 2-June 14: Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. / Sundays at 3 p.m. / Wednesday, May 27 at 8 p.m.

WHERE:
Odyssey Theatre
2055 S. Sepulveda Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90025

TICKET PRICES:
• All performances: $35

(A $3 fee will be added to each ticket purchased with a credit card.)
• Discounts available for students and seniors.

HOW:
OdysseyTheatre.com
(310) 477-2055 ext. 2

REVIEW: JANE EYRE - aNoiseWithin

2025-04-12T16:15:00.000-07:00

Jane Ayer at a Noise Within, Pasadena.

A Noise Within’s adaptation of Jane Ayer, written by Elizabeth Williamson and directed by Geoff Elliott, arrives with lofty ambitions but uneven results. While Brontë devotees and period-drama loyalists may find moments to savor, the production struggles to reconcile its grand scale with the intimacy its story demands. Still, it offers enough intrigue—and a few standout performances—to warrant a visit for those curious to judge it firsthand.

Frederick “Freddie” Stewart shines as Mr. Rochester, channeling the charm of a young Rex Harrison on “Dr. Doolittle” His performance is magnetic, balancing brooding intensity with flashes of wit. Opposite him, Jeanne Syquia tackles the titular role with visible dedication, committing fiercely to Jane’s dense monologues. While her Yorkshire accent wavers, Syquia’s earnestness is undeniable; a touch more youthful vulnerability (or fleeting levity) might have softened her portrayal and offset the play’s unrelenting solemnity.

The production’s brightest spark, however, is Trisha Miller, who deftly juggles three roles: the imperious Blanche Ingram, the nurturing Bessie, and the flirtatious Grace Poole. Miller’s chameleonic shifts—from Blanche’s haughty disdain to Grace’s eerie stillness—inject much-needed vitality. Her Blanche is a particular triumph, crackling with aristocratic venom, while her Grace Poole lingers in the mind like a shadow.

The play’s flaws, alas, are merely structural. Geoff Elliott’s direction strains against the cavernous stage, leaving actors adrift in empty space. Nuanced moments drown in the vastness, while the cast’s circling and stumbling during melodramatic peaks feel unintentionally awkward. A smaller venue or tighter staging might have harnessed the story’s Gothic intimacy. Technical choices compound the issues: a low hum in the sound design muffles dialogue, and the bleak lighting flattens visual texture. Though the costumes are sumptuously period-appropriate, distractingly artificial wigs undermine the otherwise polished aesthetic.

Jane’s frequent fourth-wall-breaking narration—a bold choice by Williamson—often feels more intrusive than immersive, halting momentum rather than deepening connection. “I wanted to see a play, not be read a book,” a fellow audience member muttered on the way out. A sentiment that lingers.

Yet for all its missteps, Jane Ayer is not without merit. Stewart and Miller elevate their scenes, and the source material’s raw power flickers through in fleeting moments. While the production’s scale often overwhelms its players, Brontë purists may still find value in its audacity—or at least in debating its choices.

**Details & Tickets**

Jane Ayer runs at a Noise Within (3352 E. Foothill Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91107) through April 20, 2025. Tickets: [www.anoisewithin.org](http://www.anoisewithin.org).

— For Gothic romance diehards, a curious experiment. For others? Manage expectations—but don’t dismiss it outright.

BRITS ON STAGE

2024-04-19T08:30:00.000-07:00

Gigs & Plays - Brits on Stage!
(PLUS a few non British shows that we think you will like!)

Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram @BritsinLA for ticket giveaways!

Many shows are being cancelled or rescheduled at the moment so make sure to check with the venues for the most recent updates.

You can email us here to let us know if you spot any errors or have a show you would like us to add to the page

BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB

The Observatory - Santa Ana

May 14th

Tickets Here

BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB

The Bellwether

May 15th

Tickets Here

ECHO & THE BUNNY MEN
Agua Caliente Casino Resort & Spa

June 14th

Tickets Here

ROD STEWART
Agua Caliente Casino Resort & Spa (Rancho Mirage)

August 17th

Tickets Here

ERIC CLAPTON
Hollywood Bowl

October 12th

Tickets Here

STRIKE IT UP

2023-07-28T09:25:00.000-07:00

SCREEN ACTOS GUILD JOIN THE WRITERS ON THE PICKET LINES -

WHATS' IT ALL ABOUT AND HOW CAN YOU GET THE SUPPORT YOU NEED

Getty images

With record box office numbers for both "Barbie" and "Oppenheimer" this week, together causing the marketing frenzy "#Barbenheimer" it would appear that Hollywood really needs its writers and actors - or perhaps not --In an unprecedented move, Hollywood is experiencing a major disruption as the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) initiates a strike that is sending shockwaves through the film and television industry. With countless productions halted and studios at a standstill, the strike demands urgent attention as it brings to the forefront the long-standing grievances of actors and other entertainment professionals. so let me break it down to what it's all about!~

The Origins of the Strike:

The roots of the SAG-AFTRA strike trace back to unresolved issues from years of negotiations and evolving industry dynamics. Tensions have been brewing between the union and the major studios over several key concerns:

The Demands of SAG-AFTRA:

SAG-AFTRA is rallying behind five major demands in their quest for a fair and equitable contract:

Residuals Reform: Seeking a complete overhaul of the residuals structure to reflect the changing distribution landscape and secure a more substantial share of profits for actors.
Improved Working Conditions: Demanding reasonable working hours, increased rest periods, and enhanced safety measures to safeguard the health and well-being of performers.
Inclusivity and Representation: Insisting on more inclusive casting practices and equitable opportunities for actors from diverse backgrounds, as well as a commitment from studios to portray marginalized communities responsibly and authentically.
Protections Against Deepfakes and Unauthorized Use: Advocating for stronger measures to safeguard actors' intellectual property and prevent the unauthorized use of their likenesses in manipulated media.
Healthcare and Pension: Fighting for improved healthcare coverage and secure pension plans for actors, especially during times of unemployment or when transitioning between projects.

Why Studios Are Struggling to Meet the Demands:

While SAG-AFTRA's demands are well-founded, the studios face a complex set of challenges in addressing them:

Economic Pressures: The entertainment industry has undergone significant financial strain, particularly with the uncertainty caused by the rise of streaming platforms and the decline of traditional revenue streams. Studios argue that meeting all of the union's demands could jeopardize their financial viability.
Contractual Obligations: Many studios are bound by existing contracts and agreements, making it difficult for them to accommodate the changes demanded by SAG-AFTRA without renegotiating with other stakeholders.
Industry Adaptation: Studios contend that the entertainment landscape is constantly evolving, and they need time to adjust to new market realities. Implementing significant changes swiftly may disrupt their business models and production schedules.
Prioritization of Demands: SAG-AFTRA's demands cover a broad range of issues, and the studios may prioritize some over others, leading to prolonged negotiations.

As the SAG-AFTRA strike enters a critical phase, the fate of countless film and television productions hangs in the balance. Both sides must engage in earnest dialogue to find common ground, ensure the welfare of entertainment professionals, and secure a sustainable future for the industry. As the situation unfolds, the ripple effects of this strike will undoubtedly be felt far beyond Hollywood's borders.

Finding ourselves at a stalemate - some reports say the studios have enough inventory to last them until September at least!! Which means a lot of actors are going to find it hard to make their rent or pay for their basic expenses. If you are a member of the union and finding it tough Ive put together a helpful list of resources that might help!

For actors who are facing financial challenges and finding it tough to make ends meet, there are several economic resources and support systems available to help them navigate difficult times. Here are some helpful resources that actors can explore:

Actors Fund: The Actors Fund is a national human services organization that provides a wide range of assistance to performing arts and entertainment professionals. They offer financial assistance, healthcare services, housing support, career counseling, and more. Actors Fund's Emergency Financial Assistance program can provide grants to cover basic living expenses and essential needs during times of crisis.
SAG-AFTRA Foundation: Apart from being a union, SAG-AFTRA also has a charitable foundation that offers various support programs for actors, including emergency financial assistance, scholarships, and grants for career development.
Unemployment Benefits: If actors find themselves unemployed or with reduced work hours, they may be eligible for unemployment benefits from their state's labor department. These benefits can help bridge the financial gap during periods of job loss.
Crisis Relief Organizations: There are several organizations that offer financial assistance to artists and performers during emergencies. For example, The Artists’ Charitable Fund provides financial aid to artists, including actors, facing medical emergencies or other unexpected crises.
Arts Grants and Scholarships: Many arts organizations and foundations offer grants and scholarships to support artists, including actors, in their creative pursuits. These grants can provide financial relief for projects or training opportunities.
Financial Counseling and Education: Seeking financial counseling or education can help actors manage their finances more effectively. Nonprofit organizations and community centers often offer free or low-cost financial workshops and counseling services.
Industry-specific Support Groups: Some organizations and groups within the entertainment industry focus on providing support to actors during tough times. These groups may offer mentorship, networking opportunities, and resources for financial assistance.
Local Community Resources: Depending on their location, actors can explore local resources such as food banks, housing assistance programs, and community-based organizations that offer support to individuals facing financial hardship.
Health Insurance Assistance: If actors are struggling to afford health insurance, they can check if they qualify for government-sponsored healthcare programs like Medicaid or explore health insurance assistance programs provided by various organizations.
Crowdfunding Platforms: In times of crisis, actors can turn to crowdfunding platforms to seek support from their fans, friends, and the community. Platforms like GoFundMe can be used to raise funds for specific needs or emergencies.

Remember, seeking help and support during challenging times is essential. Actors should not hesitate to reach out to these resources and organizations for assistance and guidance. Additionally, staying connected with industry peers and seeking emotional support from friends and family can be invaluable during difficult periods.

Here's hoping that the studios listen up and realise that what the actors are asking for is very reasonable and at a mere cost of 2%, I'm sure the profits on Barbie alone will help!

BEWARE THE SNAKES OF HOLLYWOOD

2023-05-23T14:21:00.006-07:00

BEWARE THE SNAKES OF HOLLYWOOD

Snakes of Hollywood Hills

It's true and not just the sneaky Hollywood types who are looking to do anything they can to make it in this business, but the actual slithery species. It's a real anomaly for us Brits to fathom that we may encounter a rattlesnake or two while aimlessly hiking in the picturesque landscape of the Hollywood Hills , which attracts not only humans but also a diverse range of wildlife, including snakes. As dog owners, it is crucial to be aware of the potential risks these slithering reptiles pose to our beloved four-legged companions.

Bonnie in the MASH hospital

Bonnie with her swollen face.

I learned the hard way - whilst out walking my two inquisitive dogs, Bonnie and Coco - Bonnie unfortunately stuck her nose into the wrong bush and voila! - We didn't notice at first as she didnt yelp - when back at the house she was disinterested in her food - which is definitely out of the ordinary! On closer inspection I noticed she was very forlorn and that her cheek had puffed out slightly. a spot of blood also was visible - that's when i knew she had been bitten by something- a wasp, perhaps? Honestly I had been told that dogs don't react so bad to snake bites and thought I could just keep an eye on her - big mistake! and luckily my husband didn't take any chances and called the animal hospital - they told us to bring her in right away! and thank goodness we did as in fact a snake bite could be extremely lethal and we may have lost her - so I thought I could share my learnings with all you pet owners.and provide essential guidelines on what to do in case of such an unfortunate encounter.

Firstly, California is home to several species of snakes, including venomous ones such as rattlesnakes. The Hollywood Hills, with their mix of wild terrain and residential areas, can serve as a natural habitat for these creatures. Rattlesnakes, in particular, are most active during warm weather and can be found hiding in rocky areas, brush piles, and even residential gardens.

When a dog encounters a snake, their natural curiosity may lead to an unintended confrontation. Snakes typically bite in self-defense, and when a dog gets too close or disturbs them, they may strike. The severity of the snakebite depends on various factors, such as the snake's species, size, and the amount of venom injected. Swift action is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of your pet.

Identifying a snakebite on your dog is crucial in providing immediate assistance. Common signs of a snakebite include puncture wounds, swelling, pain, and inflammation around the affected area. Your dog may also show signs of distress, such as whimpering, restlessness, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect a snakebite, it is vital to act promptly and follow these steps:

Stay calm: It is important to remain composed to effectively help your pet. Panicking can increase your dog's anxiety and heart rate, potentially spreading venom more quickly through their system.
Keep your dog still: Restrict your dog's movement to prevent the venom from spreading. Carry them, if possible, to avoid exertion.
Seek veterinary assistance immediately: Time is of the essence when dealing with snakebites. Contact your nearest emergency veterinarian and inform them of the situation. Follow their instructions for immediate care and transportation.
Do not attempt home remedies: Avoid applying tourniquets, ice packs, or attempting to suck out the venom yourself. These methods can often cause more harm than good.

Once your dog has been admitted to the vet for a snake bite injury, the veterinary team will immediately assess the severity of the bite and the overall condition of your dog.

Throughout the process, the team will keep you informed about your dog's condition and progress. They will provide guidance on post-treatment care, including medication administration, wound care, and follow-up visits. It's essential to closely follow their instructions and provide a calm and comfortable environment for your dog's recovery.

However Prevention is always better than cure and a lot cheaper if you don't have pet insurance. If we didn't have pet insurance our bill could have been upwards of $8000 - yikes! and the Animal hospital will ask for at least 75% of this this upfront.

To minimize the risk of your dog being bitten by a snake while on a hike, ask your vet about the rattlesnake vaccine - This won't stop the venom from working it's way around the body and isn't a cure - but will bide you some more time while getting your pet to the hospital.

Be vigilant during walks: Keep your dog on a leash and avoid allowing them to wander off the designated paths. Stay attentive to your surroundings and watch out for any signs of snakes.
Snakeproof your yard: Clear your yard of potential hiding spots for snakes, such as brush piles and rock crevices. Consider installing snake-proof fencing to keep these reptiles away.
Learn about local snake species: Educate yourself about the types of snakes prevalent in your area. Knowledge of their habits and habitats will help you make informed decisions to protect your dog.

Ultimately, prioritizing your pet's health and well-being is crucial, and financial considerations should not deter you from seeking immediate veterinary care in the event of a snake bite. Sometimes the hospital will work with you - I heard of a case where a dog owner couldn't afford the treatment and was going to leave with her dog and the hospital where able to help and lowered the costs considerably in order to save the digs life.

Bonnie spent a night in the Metropolitan Animal Speciality Hospital (MASH) https://www.mash.vet. and my heartfelt gratitude goes out to the vet and staff there who were kind, understanding and patient and most importantly delivered our lil' swollen, bruised, scared and embarrassed chipmunk back to us in one piece.

MASH

6565 Santa Monica Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA90038

Phone: (855) 350-7387

Remember snakes have the same right to this land as we do - after all they were living here before us! -So be kind and let the snake pass if it is in your path and back up slowly if its coming towards you - another thing you can do is to attend a snake-avoidance class - https://epicdogacademy.com is the one I found with the best reviews and affordable rates - however its in Temecula - but with saving your dogs life right?

Meet A Member - Helen Tootsi

2023-05-12T19:49:00.000-07:00

Meet Helen from Estonia by way of London, who moved to Lala Land to pursue a career in writing and lifestyle management.

Was there a particular reason you chose LA?
I was born and raised in Estonia. A self-confessed Anglophile I was blessed to call London home for many blissful years. Employed by a global British lifestyle company, it all started with visits to our LA office. My fondness towards this sunny city grew with every trip. At the same time, we were also developing an exciting platform, for established and unsung creative talent. Part of my role as a writer and Head of Editorial was working on the expansion of a British venture across the pond to feature local talent in LA.

What do you miss most from home?
Toasted crumpets with Marmite. I’m not even kidding!

I’m one of these freakazoids who loves the “pineapple on pizza” of the UK - marmite.

Oh, and a good beans on toast situation with a dash of hot sauce and a ton of cheese on a chilly morning. From Estonia, I miss freshly baked Saaremaa black bread. All carbs, clearly not very LA of me!

What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since?
I always had the presumption of LA being somewhat fake, a cliché, and lacking sophistication. It was largely thanks to my wonderful creative friends who showed me the real places and people. You can easily cut through the fake, especially if you know who you are and what you stand for. I was exposed to all the weird and wonderful this city has to offer from culture, theatre, cinema, the 70s nights at Oil Can Harry’s, drag queen bingo brunches, wonderful museums, and galleries. The secret small gigs and big ones at the Hollywood Bowl. It’s just such a vibrant place!

What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus London and Tallinn?
Estonians and Brits are similar in many ways, especially their wicked sense of humour, love of banter. We don’t tend to be the warmest people at first, but we are always polite, kind and we most importantly queue at bus stops. One of the biggest differences is the amount of small talk throughout any given day. Initially it was exhausting. People asking me how I was doing in passing was strange and took me a hot minute to get used to. Also, the lack of walking. I am a walker. Always have been, and always will be. So, if you see a tall, blonde, alabaster skinned girl in sneakers and jeans walking down the street holding a thermos with a cuppa, the chances are, it’s me. Come say hi! Eight years in LA has whipped the lack of small talk out of me!

Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
Vintage and second-hand shops in the valley are a trip! I recommend making a day of it. I’m a big fan of local, unknown spots, Jaragua on Beverly, a Salvadorian restaurant, super simple, but they have the best pupusas and chicken tamales you can order a la carte off menu. Lechuza Beach in Malibu. There’s a discreet entrance just off the PCH, but you need to get there early. It’s a little-known spot when the other restaurants are packed on hot summers day. It’s a secret, keep it to yourselves!

What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
Come prepared: mentally, physically, and financially. Research the areas you want to live in, get your driver’s license if you don’t have one yet. Keep a thick skin. One thing’s for sure: if you don’t know who you are yet, then LA can be a brutal lover that lures you in, chews you up with reckless abandon and spits you out like yesterday’s newspaper!

Lots of our members join our group Brits in LA seeking out words of wisdom - what is the best piece of advice you've been given?
Don’t be afraid to be you! It’s not about fitting in, it’s what’s unique about you that makes you stand out. Also, you don’t have to try hard to make friends, in time you’ll attract the right people.

Lastly, how can we find out more about you? Are you working on anything at the moment?

I’m a collaborating writer at Art Confidential Magazine an art and lifestyle magazine and working on my next book. A collection of LA stories through the eyes of worldwide characters who live in a big house. Keep your eyes peeled for updates.

Find Helen on Social Media via the links below

Instagram: @htootsi
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19679242.HELEN_TOOTSI

Vocal: https://vocal.media/authors/helen-tootsi

A Little Slice of Britain in LA - Latest News from Brits in LA

2023-05-12T19:26:00.001-07:00

Have we stepped through the looking glass? The last few weeks have produced a few events that at one time would have seemed impossible.

Camilla, who was famously dubbed by the press as ‘the most hated woman in Britain’ is now crowned the new Queen of the United Kingdom.

Struggling Welsh football club Wrexham AFC, who leapt in to the spot light after Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney bought the club in 2020, have finally been promoted to EFL League Two. Winning their first league title in 45 years!

Their rise to the top was captured in the uplifting docuseries Welcome to Wrexham, which as a result has created such a huge fan base here in the USA that a tour has been scheduled for this summer!

They may not have made it to the Premier League yet but will be playing a friendly match with both Chelsea (Chapel Hill, NC on July 19th) and Manchester United (San Diego, July 25th).

They will also be up against our local team LA Galaxy II on July 22nd.

For ticket info visit www.wrexhamafc.co.uk - and if you have not seen the show yet I highly recommend it, a real life fairytale with Rob & Ryan playing the part of fairy godmothers.

Available to watch on all streaming platforms

The last miracle on my radar is that the UK are finally hosting the Eurovision song contest again. The host country is usually the winner from the previous year, and in 2022 Ukrainian folk-rap group Kalush Orchestra won last year’s edition in Italy with their song ‘Stefania’, accumulating a massive 631 points in the process but sadly Russia’s attack on Ukraine has made that impossible. Which meant the baton was passed to the runner up - which for once, happened to be our homeland.

For the last 20 years the United Kingdom have failed miserably in the competition, only placing in the Top Ten three times the last being in 1997 with Katrina and the Waves ‘Love Shine a Light’.

We have finished at the very bottom of the table three times since then, even scoring the dreaded ‘nil points’ in 2003 & 2021. The general public don’t take it too seriously; it’s perceived as cheesy and a bit naff, entertaining for all of the wrong reasons. That changed last year when Bristolian Sam Ryder placed second with an impressive 466 points which exceeds all of the points received by the United Kingdom at the Eurovision Song Contest from 2010 to 2021!

Mae Muller is flying the flag for us this year with ‘I Wrote a Song’, ironically co-written with two other people - (Lewis Thompson and Karen Poole), but I suppose ‘I Helped Write a Song’ doesn’t have quite the same ring to it, does it?

Mae was born in August 1997 the same year we were last crowned the winners - perhaps it is a sign….

Thanks to another Hollywood actor, it is now much easier to watch the live broadcast of Eurovision. Will Ferrell waved his magic wand on the competition back in 2020 with the release of his hilarious film Eurovision Song Contest : The Story of Fire Saga .

You can now watch Eurovision stages and the final on the streaming channel Peacock if you aren’t already a subscriber you can sign up for the reasonable price of $4.99 a month at www.peacocktv.com - they also show a lot of the Premier League games too, so not bad for under a fiver!

If you prefer to watch it with a crowd I know that Akbar in Silverlake will be screening. Doors open at 11.30am. Click here for details.

Drop us a line at here if you have any questions or comments

Cheers

Eileen

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES WITH ANNIE SHAW

2023-05-12T08:15:00.006-07:00

Stargazing with Annie Shaw

Want a private reading with Anne?
Email her here to book
or call 310 710 8224 for a private reading

She is offering the following discounts
Brits in LA members $85
Brits in LA Key Members $75

ARIES
Good time now to get ready for life to be on track. Do not waste precious time thinking about what you have missed out on.You are getting ready for your New Year starts next week.

TAURUS
You should likely be feeling more positive and this is due to your lovely boss Venus beaming on your finances and making you upbeat
Time to start your plan for a healthy kick start next week.

GEMINI
This is a good time to catch up with unfinished business of any kind. Make a schedule and follow it as much as possible.It will be good to just focus on it a day at a time.

CANCER
Your moods can change quickly as a rule and so its good that life is giving you a boost for a change.You have some stuff to finish up so get it done soon.

LEO
You should be starting to feel more positive and ready to move forward in your life.However be sure you don't overindulge you should know by now to do everything in moderation.

VIRGO
Do not push too hard to move forward right, although life is getting easier. Show your organized side to those that need the help. Don't overdo anything, keep some boundaries.

LIBRA
You can finally feel.a little more like normal as your boss Venus is smiling on you from afar. Any plans you make now will actually come to pass if you are patient for a week or so.

SCORPIO
You should be making space in your life to change your general routine hopefully as soon as you can.Venus heading in a positive area brings some financial gains and peace of mind.

SAGITTARIUS
Its not currently a time to be self indulgent or impulsive .However now your can expect something you have been waiting for to come sooner than you expect.

CAPRICORN
Your boss Saturn is in your money house for a while and so good news financially and even possibly a new career move.Just be patient its later in the month.

AQUARIUS
Be honest with your self and others about what you really want to do now going forward.If you procrastinate about making the changes it will be some time before you get another opportunity.

PISCES
Don't look backwards even if you think you can change some things by doing so.You have entered your new year so be sure to plan on what you want to achieve overall.
Happy Birthday.

BRITS IN LA PUB QUIZ hosted by Sandro Monetti

2023-05-10T04:30:00.000-07:00

PUB QUIZ RETURNS MAY 30

With quizmaster Sandro Monetti away at the Cannes Film Festival for a couple of weeks, Brits in LA Pub Quiz is taking a brief break too.

But the popular trivia game will be back at O'Briens in Santa Monica on May 30 with Sandro back at the microphone.

In the last contest before the pause, Rogue Ruggers took the title ahead of a large chasing pack including King Charlie's Angels

TRIVIA'S MIDNIGHT WINNERS

Come on Eileen were the winning team at the latest Brits in LA Pub Quiz.

They took the title after a typically close contest at O'Briens in Santa Monica.

Join the fun and go for glory next Tuesday when quizmaster Sandro Monetti returns with more trivia brainteasers plus the singing round, the battle for the potato and other regular quiz night favourites.

Starts at 8pm but get there by 7.45pm if you need help finding a team to join. All welcome.

NEVER GONNA QUIZ YOU UP

There were first time champions at the latest Brits in LA Pub Quiz as Never Gonna Quiz You Up took the garden gnome trophy.

Running the trio close at O'Briens were The Cider Guy Rules

and a father and son team featuring Philip Battley, seen here explaining to young Arthur that the pint of Guinness he'd ordered was not actually a chocolate milkshake.

Join quizmaster Sandro Monetti at the Santa Monica boozer for more trivia fun next Tuesday, April 18. All welcome.

AN IRISH HELLO AT PUB QUIZ

Before heading to the Oscars, the stars and makers of nominated short film An Irish Goodbye stopped off at O'Briens to entertain the crowd at Tuesday's Brits in LA Pub Quiz.

Actor James Martin was an especially big hit, leading the packed pub in a singalong of Dirty Old Town, a hit for The Pogues, and his song from the movie, I'll Tell Me Ma.

James - pictured here with quizmaster Sandro Monetti (who is covering the Oscars for BBC Radio 5 Live on Sunday night) also saw his team finish third in the Academy Awards themed trivia contest, which was won by team Bubble and Squeak Out a Win.

Join the quiz fun next Tuesday, March 14, at O'Briens in Santa Monica where more special guests will be in attendance.

QUIZMASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE

Guest host Denise Littlejohn will ask the questions at Brits in LA Pub Quiz at O'Brien's on Tuesday February 28 while Sandro Monetti (pictured with her here) enjoys a well-deserved week's holiday in Italy.

Last time out at the packed Santa Monica pub, Dead Zeppelin took the trivia title for the first time - and the garden gnome trophy - ahead of A Brit and Two Twits,

who won the consolation giant potato, while Smells Like Team Spirit finished third.

Every Tuesday at 8pm - get there a little early if you need help finding a team to join

TRIVIA GOES GLOBAL

When a team of Norwegians is among the prizes at Brits in LA trivia in an Irish pub, it's proof that our popular weekly quiz is an international affair.

Norway Jose (pictured) tied for second last time out with Hopefully Not Last as Rihanna's Red Balloon took the victory at busy O'Briens in Santa Monica.

Join quizmaster Sandro Monetti there next Tuesday, Feb 21, at 8pm, along with Coral who will be defending her singing contest title, at what's becoming one of the most fun nights out in Los Angeles.

VALENTINE'S NIGHT TRIVIA

Whether you're single, coupled up or just looking for a fun time, spend Valentine's night at a special romance themed edition of Brits in LA Pub Quiz,

Reigning champs The Red Guard Balloon (pictured) have set their hearts on retaining the trivia title which they won last Tuesday ahead of 16 other teams at a packed O'Briens in Santa Monica.

But there were plenty of other prizes to go round including goodies from new movie 80 For Brady for Ben Affleck's Face at the Grammys and a consolation prize potato for One Brittle Brit and For Little Sh—s.

Join trivia host Sandro Monetti on February 14 at 8pm for a Valentine's Night you'll never forget.

A NEW ERA FOR PUB QUIZ

Our popular Pub Quiz has returned in style, packing its new home of O'Brien's in Santa Monica for Tuesday night trivia fun and games.

The host with the most (loud jackets), Sandro Monetti, will be back there on January 31 when defending champions Tech to the Future Was Robbed, aim to defend their title.

Featuring wacky prizes, singalongs and so much more, all are welcome to join the party.

Every Tuesday at 8pm - get there a little early if you need help finding a team to join

Follow O'Briens on Facebook & Instagram

TRIVIA QUEEN

Denise Littlejohn will be guest hosting Brits in LA Pub Quiz on Tuesday January 3^rd

while regular quizmaster Sandro Monetti enjoys a brief New Year break in Aspen.

Join the fun at the Market Tavern from 7.30 to see if you can take the title from reigning champs, The Hive

Sandro returns on January 10 along with his coveted consolation prize of a potato, won last time by Teamo Supremo.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

But feel free to just show up by 7.30pm

WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS

The last Brits in LA Pub Quiz of 2022 will be held on December 27 at 7.30pm at the Market Tavern. All are welcome to come on down and enjoy the fun, hosted by Sandro Monetti.

Defending their trivia title will be Hot Messi who defeated a dozen other teams last time, including Quizneyland. who had to settle for the consolation prize of a potato.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

But feel free to just show up by 7.30pm

TRIVIA IN TINSEL TOWN

The last Brits in LA Pub Quiz before Christmas will be held on Tuesday Dec 20 (7.30 kick off) at the Market Tavern with quizmaster Sandro Monetti ready to play Santa and hand out a sackful of prizes.

The festive fun last time saw Naughty Bits with Gravy beat a dozen other teams to the trivia title

while The Grinches had to settle for the consolation prize of a potato

and birthday girl Natalie Bingham celebrated her team's third place finish with a sticky toffee pudding.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

But feel free to just show up by 7.30pm

MERRY QUIZMAS

Get into the Christmas party spirit by attending a fabulously festive Brits in LA Pub Quiz on Tue Dec 13.

Trying to defend their title will be Look Who's Not Talking - the champs are pictured here with quizmaster Sandro Monetti.

They were chased hard at the last trivia night by Quiz Team Aguilera, who had to be content with the consolation prize of a potato.

Everyone was in party mood then too as Sandro was celebrating his birthday - and so was trivia regular Emily Kathleen Evans.

Join the fun next time. Trivia starts at 7.30 sharp each Tuesday at the Market Tavern in the Farmers' Market.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

THE WORLD CUP OF TRIVIA

It's the greatest sporting event on the planet...no, not the World Cup, Brits in LA Pub Quiz of course!

Join us for more fun at the Market Tavern on Tues December 6 (7.30 kick off) where quizmaster Sandro Monetti will be celebrating his birthday.

Celebrating at the latest contest were trivia winners Naughty Bits With Gravy while Team Scabs lifted the much prized fourth placed prize, a potato, like it was the World Cup.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

QUIZZY IN PINK

Pink Trickle were the winners of the latest Brits in LA Pub Quiz, winning free drinks - and, in a rare double, the same trivia team also won the singing round, scooping a sticky toffee pudding.

The Landing Strips and Fix My Crown finished joint second to each claim goodie bags of prizes, while Yo Serious took the much coveted new fourth place prize, a giant potato.

Join quizmaster Sandro Monetti at the Market Tavern for a special Thanksgiving edition of quiz night next Tuesday, Nov 22, at 7.30pm sharp.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

TRIVIA THRILLER

The latest Brits in LA Pub Quiz at the Market Tavern was as nailbiting as it was entertaining as six teams went into the final round with a chance of victory.

But D-Bad Eric outlasted and outpointed the rest to win the free drinks and the glory. The second and third placed teams won goody bags fill of prizes.

Meanwhile Dangerous Night Crew won the fourth placed prize - a potato - but were all smiles anyway.

Join quizmaster Sandro Monetti for more fun and games, including the popular singing round, next time at the Tavern, Tues November 15th when trivia starts at 7.30pm sharp.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

PUB QUIZ CHAOS

Trivia team Harmonious Chaos captured their first Brits in LA Pub Quiz victory at the latest battle of the brains at the Market Tavern.

The winners are pictured here with quizmaster Sandro Monetti who returns to host another fun contest on Tue Nov 8 at 7.30pm.

Join us then for all the familiar favourites like the singing competition for the sticky toffee pudding and the race for quirky consolation prizes like the packet of DumDums won by The Red Dwarfs (also pictured).

Click here for full details and to RSVP

HALLO-WIN

Brits in LA members celebrated Halloween in style at a special themed edition of our weekly Pub Quiz at the Market Tavern.

The prizes for best costume went to the Addams Family inspired team, See you Next Wednesday, featuring Fiona Francois as Wednesday Addams and Tanya Wilkins as Morticia Addams.

But the quiz itself was won, for the first time, by the highly delighted Dangerous Nights Crew (also pictured).

Join quizmaster Sandro Monetti - who will have changed out of his Dracula costume by then - for the next fun trivia night at the Tavern, Tuesday Nov 1^st at 7.30pm sharp.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

GETTING INTO THE SPIRIT OF THINGS

Come celebrate Halloween early with a spooktacular special edition of Brits in LA Pub Quiz on Tuesday October 25 at the Market Tavern.

There will be prizes for best costume and creepiest song along with themed questions from quizmaster Sandro Monetti - starts 7.30pm.

Back to defend their trivia title will be Arsenal's On Top who tied the record last time out for highest ever Brits in LA Pub Quiz score total with 37.

Also among the prizes that night was Tanya Wilkins, pictured here with her dog Mugsy, who won a sticky toffee pudding for her triumph in our first ever tapdancing contest.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

TICKET TO TRIVIA PARADISE

Film posters and tropical shirts from new movie Ticket to Paradise were among the prizes won by trivia players at the latest Brits in LA Pub Quiz at a packed Market Tavern.

The game itself saw a rare triumph for a team of two as the guys from the ironically named Glorious Failures gloriously beat 12 other teams to the title.

Join quizmaster Sandro Monetti for more fun when our popular quiz returns Tuesday Oct 18 at 7.30pm sharp.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

STERLING PERFORMANCE

In the week that the pound fell to its lowest level against the dollar, Brits in LA Pub Quiz was won by a team named after the economic chaos...

Pound Meltdown were quid's in as they won a round of free drinks - plus the prize certificate and a garden gnome - for their trivia victory.

Also full of smiles, and also pictured, were the contestants in the Disney themed singing round competing for a sticky toffee pudding, eventually won by The Chaps.

Join quizmaster Sandro Monetti for more fun and games when trivia returns at the Market Tavern at 7.30 sharp next Tuesday, October 11.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

Nine teams battled it out for trivia supremacy last Tuesday evening at the Brits in LA Pub Quiz at the Market Tavern. Just one emerged victorious. Only Team Carollo knew the country of Nicole Kidman's birth.

Sandro Monetti returns next Tuesday, October 4 at 7.30pm for more fantastic trivia!

Click here for full details and to RSVP

ALL SMILES AT TRIVIA

Win or lose, everyone has smiles on their faces at the popular Brits in LA Pub Quiz which packs the Market Tavern each Tuesday.

Pub Crawlers came last, Pants Half Off came first but all twelve teams had an awesome time at the Sandro Monetti hosted event.

There will be a guest host next time as regular quizmaster Sandro will be away in London for the UK premiere of the film he's directed, Tech to the Future, and that means the awesome Denise Littlejohn will be back to deputize on Sep 27 with Sandro returning on October 4.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

BATTLE OF THE BRAINS

Twelve teams tussled for the title at the latest Brits in LA Pub Quiz but ultimately The Stay-At-Home Filmmakers emerged victorious ahead of all their rivals, including team of two Ninja Turtles.

Battle recommences at the Market Tavern next Tuesday, Sep 6, at 7.30pm, when Sandro Monetti hosts another night of trivia, tunes and terrific fun.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

HANDS UP - WHO LOVES BRITS IN LA PUB QUIZ?

A full house of trivia fanatics packed the Market Tavern for the latest Brits in LA Pub Quiz.

In the end, team Soap cleaned up in the contest, washing away 11 rival teams.

Join host Sandro Monetti when the popular quiz returns to the MT on Tue Aug 30 at 7.30pm.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

HITTING THE RIGHT NOTES

With the shirts, the swagger and the awesome air guitar moves, Sandro Monetti returns to host Brits in LA Pub Quiz on Tuesday August 23 at 7.30pm.

The previous game, which celebrated the popular trivia's night's one-year anniversary at the Market Tavern, saw the reigning champs defeated by Rescue Brigade, who will be back next week to defend their title.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

O’TRIVIA NEWTON-JOHN

Players paid tribute to the late, great Olivia Newton-John at the latest Brits in LA Pub Quiz with songs, stories and special team names.

Talking of which, You’re The One That I Lost, Ooh Ooh Ooh won the title on a tiebreak at a packed Market Tavern.

Also pictured here are third placed team, Click, and singing round winner Cat Chenerisov - who won a sticky toffee pudding for serenading the pub.

Join your fellow Brits for more fun and games at the Tavern next Tuesday, August 16, at 7.30pm sharp. All welcome.

Your quizmaster is Sandro Monetti - who was on BBC TV news in recent days reporting on the life and death of Grease icon Olivia.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

HONOURS EVEN

There was a rare tie at the latest Brits in LA Pub Quiz as a team of Aussies, Yeah Nah, finished level with Anglo-American rivals Beam Me Up Uhura (they are pictured together in this group shot).

But in the trivia equivalent of a tense penalty shootout, the Australians- who wore their team name on matching t-shirts - lost the tiebreaker and Uhura took the title at a once again packed Market Tavern.

All are welcome to join the fun there next Tuesday, Aug 9 at 7.30pm sharp, where quizmaster Sandro Monetti hosts and presides over a half-time singalong of Elton John and Fleetwood Mac hits.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

STRICTLY QUIZNESS

Trivia teams assemble! Brits in LA Pub Quiz is back at the Market Tavern on Tuesday August 2 at 7.30pm sharp.

As well as the usual brainteasers from quizmaster Sandro Monetti, there's a singalong of George Michael and Wham songs planned.

Plus the opportunity to topple the current champs, trivia titans This Popsicle Tastes Like...(pictured) who saw off 10 rival teams last time.

This Popsicle Tastes Like....beat 10 other teams to the title last time out.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

SING WHEN YOU'RE QUIZZING

There were prizes galore at the latest Brits in LA Pub Quiz where every player who performed a Beatles song in the singing round received their pick of hoodies, hats, t-shirts and DVDs from British sitcom People Just Do Nothing.

But winning the ultimate glory, and the free drinks, as our latest trivia champions were the team Gigli 2: Streaming Soon.

Join the fun at the Market Tavern next time on Tuesday July 26 at 7.30. Sandro Monetti hosts.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

TAKING CARE OF QUIZNESS

Tuesday is the best night of the week for trivia players who pack out the Market Tavern for all the fun of Brits in LA Pub Quiz.

Emerging victorious at the latest contest were The Hecklers (pictured) who triumphed by just half a point.

See if you can take away their title next time by joining quizmaster Sandro Monetti for another great night on July 19 at 7.30pm.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

NEVER GONNA QUIZ YOU UP

Merriment, music and mind bending questions are on the menu each Tuesday at Brits in LA Pub Quiz.

The fun at the Market Tavern always begins with Joanna Duff's weekly performance of the trivia night theme tune at 7.30 before host Sandro Monetti starts the game.

Frank's Hernia won the latest contest, narrowly seeing off rival teams like Grope Britain

Come on down next time on Tuesday July 12 and see if you can be among the prizes.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

QUIZZIN' WITH THE BRIT PACK

Twelve trivia teams packed the Market Tavern for the latest brilliant Brits in LA Pub Quiz and the close contest saw We'll Adopt Your Baby taking the victory.

Join quizmaster Sandro Monetti and the fun-loving crowd for the next one on Tuesday July 5^th at 7.30pm and you could be among the prizes.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

POINTS, PRIZES AND PUDDINGS ...

Sandro Monetti, the host with the most (stylish jackets), presents another fun Brits in LA Pub Quiz on Tuesday June 21 at the Market Tavern.

Points, prizes and sticky toffee puddings are up for grabs as contestants try to conquer reigning champs Bookman's Library Cards.

The fun starts at 730 sharp with the pub quiz theme song and continues for two hours of brainteasers and banter. All welcome.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

ALL SHOOK UP AT TRIVIA

There will be an Elvis theme to the next Brits in LA Pub Quiz on June 14 with Presley impersonators performing and a round of questions on the King.

Latest champions Piggott's Ponies are pictured practicing their Elvis moves for the fun night at the Market Tavern next Tuesday at 7.30 sharp.

Pictured here are Team Wild Things who won the consolation prize of a gnome at the June 7 quiz

All are welcome to join quizmaster Sandro Monetti and the players aiming to be taking care of business - white jumpsuits optional.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

YES THEY CANNES

Brits in LA's popular Tuesday trivia night will have a different look over the next two weeks with quizmaster turned film director Sandro Monetti away showcasing his movie at the Cannes Film Festival.

West End musicals star Lauren Samuels will stand in for him at the Market Tavern on May 17 with fellow singer Juliana Zanville guest hosting on May 24, both are 7.30 starts.

Sandro, pictured here with Juliana and Lauren, and Lauren's dog, Paul, returns to host on May 31.

But will there be any change in the winning team? Where's Johnny's Finger triumphed again last time and will be aiming for a rare hat trick of wins on May 17.

Click here for full details and to RSVP

Winning team ‘The Google Dancers’ with guest host Robert Dimitri

photo by Frank L'e Sanford

Join the fun on Tuesday April 26th at 7.30pm with guest host Joanna Duff

Click here for full details but feel free to just show up

NEW PUB QUIZ CHAMPS

This trio of trivia experts swept to victory at the latest Brits in LA Pub Quiz.

Chekhov's Zozobra outsmarted tough competition at the Market Tavern to take the title, the chocolates, and the free drinks.

But who will win next time? Join the fun on Tuesday March 22 from 7.30pm with quizmaster Sandro Monetti. Click here for full details but feel free to just show up

TRIVIA TIE-BREAK DRAMA

The latest Brits in LA Pub Quiz ended in a dramatic tiebreak that saw team Carnivale pip heartbroken rivals Make Quiz Not War to the title.

Team Carnivale are the winners!

Join host Sandro Monetti at the Market Tavern next time, 7.30pm on Tuesday March 8, where International Women's Day will be celebrated with songs and special themed questions.

Make Quiz Not War came in 2nd place

Pics by Frank L'e Sanford

VISIT THIS LINK FOR FULL DETAILS AND TO RSVP

POINTS, PINTS AND PUDDINGS TO BE WON

"Putin's Peacemakers" invaded the Market Tavern and claimed victory at the latest Brits in LA Pub Quiz.

But who will win the trivia battle at the next one?

Join the fun on March 1^st at 7.30 sharp and find out.

There are points, pints, puddings and other prizes to be won.

Sandro Monetti, fresh from his own recent trophy wins at the National Journalism Awards, is your quizmaster.

VISIT THIS LINK FOR FULL DETAILS AND TO RSVP

GOOD NEWS - TAX FILING DEADLINE EXTENDED

2023-04-14T19:22:00.001-07:00

Are you like me and been procrastinating over preparing and filing your taxes?

The deadline has alway been on or around April 15th. So why is that so many of us get to April 1st and act like it has been sprung on us like a surprise event?

The good news is that the government has given us a reprieve until October!

This only affects certain counties within those states that were affected by the severe weather we experienced over the last few months.

Fortunately (?) Los Angeles County falls under that umbrella. It really is a case of every cloud…. If you aren’t certain which jurisdiction you fall under you can check at www.irs.gov - this is also where you can seek free advice and utilize their tax clinics plus so many other resources to help with preparing and filing.

Every year I promise myself that next time I will have everything ready by the first week of March, but have never been able to follow through. Last year I circumvented the tax prep angst by filing for an extension well in advance of the looming deadline.

An extension allows taxpayers a 6 month reprieve to get their accounts in order and whilst it doesn’t cost anything, please keep in mind that it is not an extension to pay what you owe. A ballpark figure is fine. If your income hasn’t changed much from the previous year you can base it on that. You will get a refund if you overpay and a penalty of approximately 5% if you underestimate.

Like green card holders, if you spend at least 183 days in the United States and are a holder of a nonimmigrant visa, you must file your taxes. In some case it is even recommended to do so if you had little or no income as you may be entitle to tax credits. Make sure to read up on the FBAR too - this is for reporting of foreign accounts.

I’ve had a few Brits in LA members tell me they came unstuck by not being aware of the procedure and even worse hiring accountants and advisors who were ignorant of the laws too.

I usually pay a CPA (certified public accountant) to help prepare and file my tax return as I am fearful that I will make mistakes, but even then you still have to do a lot of the leg work pulling everything together and bear in mind if they make mistakes you are still held liable...

Why does just the thought of taxes cause so many of us to panic? I can understand that the likes of Jimmy Carr or Gary Barlow et al. might have just cause to be anxious, but the HMRC & IRS manage to make even the most law abiding citizens quiver in their boots.

In the scheme of things paying our taxes should be a good thing, something to be proud of, as it provides so much for our society and infrastructure. So it makes no sense that we are all encouraged to despise it or feel like we are being tricked somehow. I suppose it doesn’t really help when we see so many tax dollars wasted, or areas that could do with a bigger allocation.

Either way, you now have another few months until you have to figure out what you are required to contribute. This extension is automatic (for affected counties), so use the time wisely and don't leave it till the last minute (again!).

If you have any questions or recommendations on this or any other topic please drop us a line at here

Craig and I are planning to attend Sandro's Pub Quiz at O’Briens in Santa Monica next Tuesday, so make sure to say hello if you are there too. Details can be found here

Cheers

Eileen

Another week, another holiday - Latest News from Brits in LA

2023-02-19T21:35:00.005-08:00

RUGBY IS BACK IN LA!

England, Scotland & Wales now playing together as TEAM GB

Expanded Family Zone with kids activities

International food vendors, including meat pies, curry and plenty of beer

Need we say more?

GET YOUR TICKETS HERE

Technically established just over 246 years ago, the United States is seen as a relatively young country - definitely a teenager in my opinion..

Which probably explains why the American calendar seems to be jammed full of holidays and celebrations. There have already been several since New Years Day.

Just this past week we had Super Bowl Sunday followed by Valentines Day on Tuesday - which now seems to have become a successful commercial occasion for everyone rather than a romantic one. No doubt the stores have already removed the chocolate roses and teddy bears clutching hearts to make way for the marshmallow chicks and bunnies and chocolate eggs in preparation for Easter, which isn’t actually until April 9th this year.. please note if you have just moved here and spot Cadburys mini eggs or Crème Eggs whilst out and about don’t get too excited. They are not exactly the same as the ones we grew up with…. I think they are quite tasty - if you’ve not had British chocolate in a while - but many other Brits in LA members would disagree and say avoid at all cost!

But let me not get ahead of myself as coming up this Monday is Presidents Day, which means the Post Office and banks will be closed as well as most ( but not all) schools, and of course all of the Federal buildings. Pretty much everything else will be open and many may have special offers marking the occasion! Look out for ‘Presidents Day Sales’ signs. For some reason mattresses always seem to be a good price, but usually a good time to buy any big ticket item.

The following day is Mardi Gras/Fat Tuesday - also know as Pancake Day/Shrove Tuesday to the Brits amongst us and yes another excuse to party. If you want to join in with the fun then head over to the Farmers Market at the Grove as they have events all weekend starting with the Mutti Gras Pet Parade & Costume Contest at the Market Plaza. Then the Mardi Gras Celebration kicks off on the West Patio with live music (which returns on Fat Tuesday as well) and traditional New Orleans food. Visit farmersmarketla.com for full details. There are also parades going on in Long Beach, Redondo Beach and Baldwin Hills but if none of these locations are convenient for you make sure to check your local area as I would be very surprised if there is not a celebration of some kind happening near you.

Don’t forget us Angeleno’s are also in the middle of Awards Season which doesn’t finish until the Oscars ceremony on March 12th. Which is the same day the clocks go forward in the USA, so be prepared to lose an hour that day.

It can all be a wonderful distraction if you are in the mood for it, but a bit of a nuisance if you are trying to get stuff done. Apparently quite a few Brits in LA members have attended various awards shows as seat fillers over the years - there is a recent conversation over on our Facebook group @BritsinLA so if you quite fancy the sound of that make sure to check it out.

I must admit that when ever I get cross being stuck in traffic because the Golden Globes have jammed Wilshire or delayed because the Academy Awards are setting up at the bottom of my street, I do try to remind myself that it could be worse..
If I had stayed in London I would be dealing with lane closures on the M25, train strikes/cancellations and probably worrying about ULEZ charges! Although sometimes I must admit the latter sounds rather appealing - especially when I haven’t been home for a while. The grass is always greener, right?

Last but not least, Sandro will also be hosting Pub Quiz next Tuesday at O’Briens Pub in Santa Monica - No doubt it will be a fun night whether or not they observe Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras or Pancake Day, but I am pretty certain they will be doing something for St Patrick’s Day next month!

Email us at here if you have any questions or comments. We always love to hear from you

Cheers

Eileen

Welcome, Black History Month - Brits in LA Newsletter February 2023

2023-02-08T10:33:00.002-08:00

Here in the United States, February is dedicated to Black History Month. I grew up in a very multicultural part of London and looking back I think I was a bit sheltered and naive regarding racism. I was lucky enough to attend schools that regularly celebrated all cultures and embraced everything our different heritages had to offer. Our religious education classes covered a range of beliefs, and our home economics lessons were full of recipes from around the world. I was given the opportunity to play a steelpan in the school band. I didn’t realize at the time how lucky we all were, not knowing that the majority of kids around the (western) world were mostly being taught one narrative. A very whitewashed one. I can’t imagine how non-white children feel, learning that their heritage is not worthy of the school curriculum. But also the thought of all kids not knowing about each others history, struggles and triumphs is horrifying. Fortunately things are slowly changing when it comes to education. I do believe that it is one of the most important ways for us all to be able to live in harmony. Only a handful of countries around the world dedicate a month to Black History. So do try to make the most of having this right on your doorstep.

LA has so many ways for us to celebrate the accomplishments of African-Americans in the United States. Below are a few that I have picked out, but if you do your own research online you will find lots of great stuff local to you.

Los Angeles Public Library is a good place to begin - they have a wide range of resources available online to commemorate and educate us on the importance of this month. You can learn about the history of the first African Americans who migrated to California and they have a whole section dedicated on ‘Building a Community: A Look at African American Institutions in Early Los Angeles’. They have a page featuring books, films, podcasts, music and more, highlighting the talents and achievements of African American artists and heroes. There is also have a full calendar of events, both online and at various branches around town.

Visit LAPL.org and sign up for a free library card if you don’t have one already.

On Saturday, February 18th the City of Pasadena will be hosting the 41st Annual Black History Parade & Festival. It is one of Southern California’s largest and longest running Black history parades and will feature guest speakers, live bands, community booths and dance performances.

Visit this link for full details tinyurl.com/PasadenaParade2023

On February 19th, the Open Arms Food Pantry and Resource Center present LA Black History Month Festival at the Michelle and Barack Obama Sports Complex. The event includes a book faire, Afrikan marketplace, live performances, workshops and available social services information, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. The emphasis on this year’s festival is on financial literacy and wellness.

More info can be found at www.lablackhistorymonthfestival.com

As I mentioned before there are a ton of other things happening around town - to make it even easier for you visit this link I shortened and it will take you to the listings found via a Google search - https://tinyurl.com/BHEVENTS2023

Before I go I must all let you know that my Brits in LA partner, Craig Young has some his exciting news. His film ‘Wannabe: All washed up’ has been selected to be featured at the First Glance Film Festival in LA next month (March 16-19).

It is a cracking film; a mockumentary following the life of a British popstar who comes to LA in the hopes of finding international fame and fortune. Those of you in the entertainment industry will be able to relate to the comedic scenarios and if you are not it will certainly give you an insight as to what goes on behind the scenes in Hollywood. Craig not only stars in it but he also co wrote it along with the very talented Richard Keith. I know he would be delighted if you can go along and show your support.
Early Bird All Access passes are currently discounted and can be snapped up for a limited time for $75

Watch the trailer here

FirstGlanceFilms.com and individual tickets will go on sale shortly. Watch this space…

If you want to get in touch you can find us across the main social media platforms and searching for @BritsinLA

Cheers

Eileen

Lots of Money Saving Tips - Read all about it in the latest newsletter from Brits in LA

2023-01-26T09:42:00.004-08:00

Everyone seems to have gone wild about Harry!

Or rather his revelations…

It’s not surprising that the release of Prince Harry’s memoir ‘Spare’ has started a heated but relatively healthy debate over on our Brits in LA Facebook forum. Many seem to have strong opinions although I’m not sure if they were formed by actually reading the book.. I raise my hands and admit that any judgements I make are based solely on whatever snippets have been shared on the internet. Whilst I’m in the camp of being not keen on oversharing or washing my dirty laundry in public it was quite enlightening to read the arguments for it. I came to the conclusion that although it’s not particularly pleasant for those that are disparaged, does it actually really matter? Tomorrows Fish n chips Paper, right?

One thing I would recommend not sharing publicly - especially if if you are here on a visa or a greencard holder - is any kind of drug use. Apparently Prince Harry admits to using various substances in his book. This may cause problems down the line if he chose to omit this information (when asked) on his immigrant application forms. It’s easy to forget that even though marijuana and cannabis products are legal in the state of California they are still illegal under Federal Law - so if you are not a US citizen it could jeopardize your status here - many dispensaries scan your I.D when you make a purchase and this could therefore be linked to your immigration file. I hear that colleges and universities send out memos reminding their foreign students to be aware of this fact too.

Talking of which a proposal has been submitted to change several of the filing fees that fund the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

A few are going down (including Green Card renewals and replacements) but several are going to get a hefty increase if this gets approved - if you are a conditional resident with a 2 year Green Card you will be paying an extra $515 (currently $680) to get the conditions removed.
It’s unlikely the proposed USCIS fee increase will go into effect before mid-March 2023 so if you have been putting off filing your forms make sure to do it before then, unless you are one of the lucky ones who should be getting a decrease. For the full list visit the Federal Register via this link tinyurl.com/USCISFees2023

Have you been putting off renewing your British Passport? Be warned that their prices are going up too! Increase goes into effect from February 2nd so save yourself a few quid and apply before then. Don't forget you can renew up to 9 months before your current one is due to expire. The turnaround time is approximately 10 weeks although several Brits in LA members say that they received theirs in half that.

Don’t stress about your unexpired visas. Send your previous passport with the visa attached to it with your application. Your previous passport will be returned to you, usually via DHL. You’ll still be able to use the visa if you carry both passports. Visit this link to renew today

My last money saving tip before I go is to help with the eye watering utility bills many of us received this month from SoCalGas. Mine went up over 200%!

I immediately dashed over to the thermostat to turn the heating down! Thankfully there is a solution - SoCalGas offer a plan called the “Level Pay Plan” which basically averages your use over 6 months and you pay a flat monthly affordable rate. This means I will pay slightly more than I usually do in the summer, but won’t get any more nasty surprise bills during the colder months.
Hopefully it will help some of you too. Log in to your online account for more details.
If you have any questions, comments, news or handy tips to share you can drop us a line at here or find us on Facebook @BritsinLA
Cheers
Eileen

Billy Idol Receives a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

2023-01-07T17:53:00.002-08:00

Soggy Start to 2023 - latest news from Brits in LA

2023-01-07T17:33:00.003-08:00

What a wet and windy start 2023! LA made a very grand entrance into the new year with a bomb cyclone - or what us Brits would refer to as ‘a torrential downpour’. Either way it put a huge damper on the firework displays that usually fill our skies when the clock strikes midnight.

Whilst the timing could have been better, it is very much welcomed. After an unbearably hot summer California is still in a severe drought.
LA County managed to capture almost 2 billion gallons of water over the NYE weekend but that’s just a drop in the ocean (sorry, couldn’t resist) compared to what we actually need. So just because it’s raining don’t think that means you can be wasting water.. that includes no running taps whilst brushing your teeth and if you have an automated sprinkler system make sure to turn that off too please.

We also have some new laws and regulations that went into effect on January 1st. Below are a few that caught my eye but you can see the full list by visiting tinyurl.com/CALAWS23
Contrary to popular belief jaywalking is still not completely legal, however under the newly introduced ‘Freedom to Walk’ act we are allowed to cross the street as long as it is deemed safe to do so.

Basically they have rebranded the Green Cross Code. I won’t be there when you cross the road so make sure to Stop, Look and Listen!

Drivers also need to be aware that when passing a bicycle they need to move in to a separate lane rather than just give them a wide berth.

California is proud to be the first state to ban the sale and manufacture of new fur products.
California has also raised its minimum wage to $15.50 per hour. However the city of Los Angeles has set their rate at $16.04 and West Hollywood starts at $17 and will increase to $18.86 in July. Whilst that is far better than the federal minimum wage of $7.25 it still isn’t enough to actually afford to live in West Hollywood.. And does it really help? As all that seems to happen when the minimum wage is increased is that businesses raise their prices to incorporate the extra cost, which then means the same workers have to pay more for everything so we go back to square one. It really makes it difficult for everyone - especially the smaller businesses.

We sadly lost one of our favourites earlier this week - the home of our weekly Brits in LA Pub Quiz nonetheless. The marvelous Market Tavern had to admit defeat and shut up shop on Tuesday January 5th 2023. This is in spite of the fact that it was situated within the bustling Farmers Market at the Grove as well as being the home for the Hollywood Hammers (local chapter for West Ham supporters) and was proclaimed by many Brits in LA members as ‘one of the best Sunday Roasts in town’.

As you can imagine it was a bit of a shock and extremely saddening to hear it had come to such an abrupt end . But it also highlights how important it is to support our local businesses whenever we can, otherwise soon there will be none left and then minimum wage won’t even be an issue as there will be no jobs on offer anyway …
Obviously this means Brits in LA Pub Quiz won’t be happening next Tuesday but watch this space to find out what’s next. Or you can follow us on social media by searching @BritsinLA
Till next time
Cheers
Eileen

Britain on Strike - Just in time for Christmas!

2022-12-23T12:38:00.008-08:00

I am staying in Los Angeles for Christmas this year and for once I am quite relieved not to be spending it in the UK. It sounds like absolute bedlam there at the moment. Not only are the nurses on strike but so are the trains, the buses, the Royal Mail, the ambulance workers, Border Force and airport baggage handlers. Then in January it will be the turn of driving examiners and teachers in Scotland and it’s rumoured that teachers in England and Wales may have to follow suit. I think it’s fair to say that everyone has had enough. The pandemic highlighted for so many of us the importance of having a better work/life balance so it’s not really surprising why the people in these sectors feel that industrial action is needed. They all worked so hard during lockdown and were hailed ‘essential workers’ - keeping the country functioning whilst the rest of us were Zooming or attempting to keep fit with Joe Wicks.

Pay rises and better working conditions are probably the only way to attract more job applicants, which would surely help split the load. My mum was in hospital earlier this year and witnessed nurses so burnt out they were crying and even fighting with each other.

On top of all that it’s absolutely freezing over there at the moment. I know many people have been dealing with frozen pipes, worrying about putting the heating on since energy prices have skyrocketed. I compared utility bills with a friend of mine in England and she is paying almost 5 times more than I do for a similar size flat. It is definitely a time to be extra grateful that we live in SoCal.

British poet Pam Ayres MBE posted a humorous poem earlier this week that captures the chaos that is currently sweeping the nation - it is much better if you try and replicate her distinctive accent as you read it ..

Well, happy Christmas mateys, you can't get on a train,

The Border Force is striking, so you can't get on a plane,

The nurses on the picket line feel underpaid and wronged,

And if you need an ambulance, the wait could be prolonged.

No turkey on the table, the blighter's got the flu,

Here's a Yuletide sausage, one'll have to do,

Let's raise a glass of water, with blankets on our knees,

And drink to festive merriment, as we gently freeze.

Pam Ayres 2022

If you are reading this from Blighty let us know how it really is - hopefully it’s not all doom and gloom.

At least you get to tune in to the Kings Christmas Speech at the proper time!

For those of you here in California who are interested in watching it, it’s usually broadcast at 7am local time and should be streaming live on YouTube. It’s free to watch, just search for @TheRoyalFamilyChannel

Hope you have a lovely Christmas wherever you are in the world. Stay warm and don’t forget to be nice!

Cheers

Eileen

WHERE TO WATCH THE WORLD CUP IN LOS ANGELES 2022

2022-12-07T04:00:00.000-08:00

WHERE ARE YOU WATCHING THE WORLD CUP?

We have put together a list of some of the places that will be showing the matches in and around Los Angeles

Many are opening for the early games and some are ticketed so make sure to check with the venue before you head out

Email us here if you want to add your venue to the list

We will be watching the games at The Chap in Hollywood, so feel free to come and join us. Tickets can be purchased here

If you would rather watch at home FOX will be showing all of the games

Other streaming services will let you watch some or all of the games including Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Tubi and Peacock

If you are in the UK or have access to the tv channels you can watch all of the World Cup matches on either ITV or BBC - they have a rotating schedule so make sure to check their websites to see who is showing what.

CROWN AND ANCHOR - THOUSAND OAKS

2891 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks 91362

www.crownandanchor.com

HOUSE OF FOOTBALL - HIGHLAND PARK

4908 York Blvd. Los Angeles 90042

www.thehofla.com

JOXER DALY’S - CULVER CITY

11168 Washington Blvd, Culver City 90232

No website but you can find them on Instagram or Facebook

JUSTIN QUESO’S - WEST HOLLYWOOD

8917 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood 90069

www.justinquesos.com

LAFC are hosting watch parties as they have 5 players competing in the tournament.

Visit www.LAFC.com for details

LUCKY BALDWIN’S - PASADENA

17 South Raymond Avenue, Pasadena 91105

www.luckybaldwins.pub

MARKET TAVERN - Farmers Market @ The Grove

6333 W 3rd St, Los Angeles 90036

www.markettavernla.com

ROBIN HOOD BRITISH PUB - SHERMAN OAKS

13640 Burbank Blvd, Sherman Oaks 91401

www.robinhoodbritishpub.com

SPRINGBOK BAR & GRILL - VAN NUYS

16153 Victory Blvd, Van Nuys, 91406

www.springbokla.com

THE AULD FELLA - CULVER CITY

9375 Culver Blvd. Culver City 90232

www.theauldfella.com

THE CAT AND FIDDLE - HOLLYWOOD

742 N Highland Avenue, Los Angeles 90038

www.thecatandfiddle.com

THE CHAP PUBLIC HOUSE - HOLLYWOOD

1607 Cahuenga Blvd., Los Angeles 90028

www.thechappub.com

THE FOX AND HOUNDS - STUDIO CITY

11100 Ventura Blvd, Studio City 91604

www.thefoxandhounds.net

THE OLDE SHIP BRITISH PUB - ORANGE COUNTY

709 N. Harbor Blvd. Fullerton 92832

www.theoldeship.com

THE RED LION TAVERN - SILVERLAKE

2366 Glendale Blvd. Los Angeles 90039

www.redliontavern.net

THE STALKING HORSE

10543 W. Pico Blvd, 90064

www.thestalkinghorsepub.com

VILLAGE IDIOT

7383 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles 90046

www.villiageidiotla.com

WHITE HARTE PUB - WOODLAND HILLS

22456 Ventura Blvd, Woodland Hills 91364

www.whitehartepub.com

YE OLDE KINGS HEAD - SANTA MONICA

116 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica 90401

www.yeoldekingshead.com

YORKSHIRE SQUARE BREWERY

1109 Van Ness Ave, Torrance 90501

www.yorkshiresquarebrewery.com

MEET A MEMBER: PAUL ROGAN

2022-12-07T00:09:00.003-08:00

Meet Paul Rogan from London who moved to LA 15 years ago to pursue acting.

photo courtesy of David Piggott

Was there a particular reason you chose LA?

For an actor of course Los Angeles is the dream. In England I was an actor, stand-up comedian, improviser. and voice-over performer. I've found that people in the entertainment industries here are surprisingly easy going and approachable, and you can get opportunities here that don't exist in England. I booked TV and commercial work here within a short time of arriving. Here, they love our Englishness, and they assume we all trained at RADA! Of course the sun, sea and space don't hurt - my wife, who is American, would happily have gone back to Chicago, but the first time I visited Chicago it was in a winter, and stepping out the airport the coldest I'd even been. It felt like I was being assaulted by the White Walkers from Game of Thrones.

What do you miss most from home?
I miss family and friends, obviously, but it is so much easier these days to stay in touch. I know Brits here who came out in the 50s and 60's, and it must have felt so much more cut off from 'home'. I can see my family, and read the English newspapers for free every day, even if I have no idea who the 'celebrities' are that the Daily Mail is shocked about. Being able to watch English football on TV was a huge surprise and relief. Now when I'm in England and the game isn't on at 7 in the morning, I'm thrown.

What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since?
We stayed with friends, so I saw aspects of LA that locals see. If you just came as a tourist and saw only Graumans and Hollywood Boulevard etc you might think it tacky and nothing special. But there is a magic here. I remember the first time we drove along Sunset Boulevard where it transitions from West Hollywood to Beverly Hills, and it was stunning. My view hasn't changed: I still love the Hollywood sign, and a sunset at Malibu.

What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus London?
What it all looks like - the light, the low-rise main streets, the ever changing nature of it. In London the houses are all terraced and therefore won't change much, Here, houses have their own lot, and our Valley neighborhood is constantly changing as houses get rebuilt.

Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
Coffee at Aroma on Tujunga, The Ojai Valley Inn; (pictured)

Paradise Cove, tacos at Brentwood Country Mart. None of these are particularly hidden of course but not all Brits may know them yet.

What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
You've got one life. Do it! You can always go home again!

Lots of our members join our group Brits in LA seeking out words of wisdom - what is the best piece of advice you've been given?
Question every bill you get from your health insurer. Brits aren't much used to health insurance, and we tend to trust that people know what they are doing. But health bills are often riddled with errors and can be thousands of dollars more that they should be.

Lastly, how can we find out more about you? Are you working on anything at the moment?
I'm just about to open my show Jane Austen Unscripted at the Garry Marshall Theatre in Burbank. One of my great passions is improvised comedy, which I did a lot in England, guesting with the Comedy Store Players etc. When I got here I joined Impro Theatre, a company that improvise comedy plays, and I created a show (long before Austentatious in London!) in which we make up very funny plays in the style of Jane Austen) "Hilarious", the LA Times).

We are performing our show again, from December 2-11 at the Garry Marshall Theatre in Burbank. We had hugely successful sold out run of the show at the Garry Marshall in the Spring, and now we have been enthusiastically researching Holiday themes and Regency Christmas traditions for our Christmas run.

The website for tickets and info can be found here

My own website is www.paulrogan.com, and follow me on Instagram: @itspaulrogan

MEET A MEMBER: VERONICA THARMALINGHAM

2022-12-06T22:22:00.003-08:00

Meet Veronica Tharmalingam from Paris and London who moved to LA 11 years ago to pursue Acting/Fashion design

Was there a particular reason you chose LA? Yes LA is the Mecca for Acting and Mm fiancé at the time now hubby was into media and entertainment so voilà

What do you miss most from home? FOOD, Friends, culture, seasons :P

What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since? For me LA is not a big city, I only lived in big cities be it in India, France or UK growing up. So, LA felt more like suburbs of a big city. I was so excited to drive to everything at first, that excitement lasted a week even though I had my first car ever which was a boat on wheels 7ft long Chrysler Cordoba.

What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus London or Paris? People are nicer but not when they are in their cars (have you noticed it too?)… It is always or most of the time sunny that is a game changer for me because no matter how bad I feel I can step outside my door get some sun and feel better instantly, We can be outdoors almost every day and be at the beach every day if we want to (my fantasy, coz I never think of doing it unless we have visitors over from elsewhere).

Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us? If you want to have a decent croissant or light lunch and yummy coffee check out Euro Caffe on Canon Drive. They serve delicious Italian breakfast and lunch, and their coffee is superb.
Instagram @eurocaffebh/

What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here? Test it out for a few months and see if you like it before doing the big move. We did 6 months and then decided to stay. There are some things to consider like distance from the rest of your family/friends etc (you are the furthest you can be). Time difference to be in touch with your loved ones is also challenging. There are a lot of costs involved that we are not used to in UK or Europe in general like health care.

Lots of our members join our group Brits in LA seeking out words of wisdom - what is the best piece of advice you've been given?
LA is like In-N-Out Burger, you can spend a life time ordering just burger here if someone doesn’t tell you about the animal style from the Secret Menu*.

There are so many under the radar things here that we don’t know about and discover every day in LA, so always be curious and ask questions you never know what you will discover that day.

Lastly, how can we find out more about you? Are you working on anything at the moment? I launched my handbags and jewelry brand all hand-made in India by skilled artisans. We launched at New York Fashion week in September 2021, we have been published in international editorials like Vogue, L’Officiel, Harper’s Bazaar, Glamour, Grazia to name a few and have been on red carpets too. We just opened pop up stores in Miami beach and Washington DC, soon in LA.

Our handbags and jewelry are all limited edition.
Handbags run 150 per model per season, and jewelry are either unique pieces or under 10 per model.
We use 18carat gold plated hardware on our bags, and premium raw materials: beads, pearls, crystals etc.
And we use copper or silver base for our jewelry which are then gold dipped in 18-22-24 carat gold. We also use premium crystals, stones (precious – Semi precious), beads, and baroque pearls.
For this holiday season shop local from one of your fellow members (wink wink) and get one-of-a-kind jewelry and handbags for your loved ones. Your purchase holds power as 30% of all our profits are given to charity that are dear to our heart (to abolish child labor, medicine/ hospital care in India and Sri Lanka) and you buy sustainable slow fashion because we do not produce raw material, we use what is already made and available in the market thus keeping our carbon foot print to a minimum.
We are a feel-good brand in all ways

More information about the brand www.veronicatharmalingam.com

Instagram @veronicatharmalingam

Use code BRITSINLA for special surprise gift for each purchase

*Check out In-N-Out Burger ‘Not So Secret Menu’ here

www.in-n-out.com/menu/not-so-secret-menu

REMEMBERING LEN DAVIES

2022-12-06T21:30:00.003-08:00

REMEMBERING LEN DAVIES

Sadly our dear friend and long time Brits in LA a member Len Davies passed away last week. He was so kind and generous and had such a positive outlook on life.

Any time we put out a call for volunteers Len was always one of the first to respond.

Len and his son Tom volunteering at one of our events

He was very much loved by us all. No doubt many of you will remember him fondly as Santa from our Christmas parties over the years.

We are eternally grateful and very proud to have had Len be such a huge part of our Brits in LA family.

You will be sorely missed Len.

The Best of British is right here in LA

2022-10-23T15:44:00.005-07:00

I often say that the most interesting people I have met are through our Brits in LA community - I can’t quite put my finger on it but there is something very unique about those of you that I have had the pleasure of interacting with. I particularly enjoy the variety of our members, and am very proud that we are one of the few expat groups that welcome members that aren't 'even' British. I have formed friendships that will last forever and I know many of you have too.

A few qualities that come to mind are Adventurous and Brave - for upping sticks and starting a new life on a different continent. It’s so easy to get stuck in a rut and stay there indefinitely, as it is scary to make a change. Not that it doesn’t happen once you get here, but at least you’ve made the first step.

Creative - many of you work in the arts but even those of you that don’t, come across as people who have a different outlook on the world and are up for anything; whether it be putting together amazing costumes for one of our events, sharing your ideas on our Facebook forum or exploring ways to improve your life, whether it be travel, therapy, yoga, attending concerts or sailing in you spare time. I could go on, but I think those of you who have lived here long enough know what I mean and also have friends and relatives in the UK who daydream about a more fulfilling life but get put off when they realize the risks they will have to take.

Annabel first contacted me back in 2016 as she and her husband Thom were playing with the idea of moving to LA. They had spent the last 26 years in Birmingham and decided it was now or never… They finally decided to make the leap in 2020. Unfortunately, their arrival coincided with the news that Covid was spreading and thus there would be a nationwide lockdown - which is probably one of the worst times to move to a new country, start a new life and make new friends..

Thom is a magician and already had shows lined up at the prestigious Magic Castle and Annabel is an incredible cake maker, although that is a huge understatement.

Check out her work at www.conjurerskitchen.com and see if you can come up with a more fitting description.

As you can imagine due to their line of work it was a particularly difficult period, but they soldiered on looking forward to the day they could finally begin the California life they had been dreaming of.

Thankfully towards the end of 2021 things started to open up a bit - business was picking up, the sun was always shining both literally and figuratively reminding them both why they had made such an epic move. Roll on to April 2nd, 2022. Thom got exceedingly sick and was rushed to hospital. The doctors found a Stage 4 brain tumor and surgery was scheduled to remove it on April 5th. You can’t help but wonder how long they would have been waiting to be seen if they had stayed in England… the surgery was followed by rounds of radiation and chemo which whilst exhausting seemed to be working. So it came as quite a shock when I learned earlier this week that the doctors have run out of treatment options and it is unlikely that Thom will get better.

So now Annabel wants to try and make the time she has left with Thom filled with lovely memories. Her friends have set up a GoFundMe to try and ease the financial strain -

I am sharing this story in the hope that some of you will donate to a fundraiser that has been set up for them.

We are so lucky that we have been able to live our ‘California Dream’ and I believe many of you would like to help Annabel & Thom experience a taste of it too. If every member donated $1 the GofundMe target would be surpassed in an instant.

Would certainly give them one less thing to worry about for sure…

Here is the link to donate - or you can open the camera app on your phone and point it at the QR code I created.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-amazing-guy-thom-petersons-go-fund-me?

Don’t hesitate to contact me if you get stuck.

There will also be a fundraising event held in November - I will share the details as soon as it is set.

Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions or suggestions or perhaps items you would like to donate to the silent auction they are hoping to host.

You can email me here

Cheers

Eileen

Halloween Plans?

2022-10-16T19:15:00.001-07:00

Halloween is almost upon us and Los Angeles offers a wide range of events and activities to mark the occasion. In my mind nobody embraces this holiday quite like the Americans do. For the month of October everything becomes ‘spooky’… Even dog biscuits gets the ghoulish treatment!

Unfortunately one of Southern California’s most popular events, the West Hollywood Carnaval is still on hiatus for 2022. It’s a shame as it is probably one of our most iconic destinations to celebrate All Hallows’ Eve. Craig and I have spent many a memorable night there over the years. The West Hollywood City Council decided not to approve the funding at their last budget meeting and opted to encourage the alternative Halloween experience of encouraging local businesses to host small scale events instead.

To be honest, as a local I am half relieved, as pre-pandemic the Parade was attracting hundreds of thousands of people (500,000 according to many reports). Obviously this isn’t ideal when you are just trying to go about your daily business.

To find out more visit www.weho.org/halloween

But that doesn’t mean there is nothing to do! Halloween falls on a Monday this year, which means basically at least 4 nights of ghostly activities…..

LA has something to offer for everyones tastes

For a chill(ing) night you can’t go wrong with an evening at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery screenings hosted by Cinespia.

Great for groups but don’t be afraid to go solo - everyone is so squished together you definitely won’t feel alone. Pack a picnic (booze is allowed) and make sure to wrap up as it does get a bit nippy once the sun goes down.

They do also have food and drink for sale there.

I highly recommend getting a taxi if you are planning to drink, or purchase a parking pass if you have a designated driver.

On October 29th Cinespia are hosting an extra special event, at the Los Angeles Theatre in DTLA; a gothic masquerade full of passions and pleasures for lovers, blood brothers, and friends forever more.

Followed by a screening of Bram Stoker’s Dracula in honor of its 30th anniversary. Gary Oldman plays the wicked Count, directed by Francis Ford Coppola.

Dapper vampire costumes or gothic glamour formal attire required.

Visit Cinespia.Org for full details and to purchase tickets

For the clubbers amongst you our friends from Manchester, the EC Twins, are hosting a dance party in Hollywood - Raveyard!

Free entry if you RSVP via this link

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/raveyard-festival-tickets-439420036157

Knotts Scary Farm has been going for over 40 years - I’ve never been but heard it is a hoot.

Tickets aren’t cheap but you can find discounts if you look around.

Goldstar.com are currently offering them for $54

Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights is always a thrill - it runs through till October 31st.

Again, discounted tickets are available if you look around. I’ve seen them on AAA.com and at Costco too - they often do promotions with brands like Coca Cola so have a look around before you pay full price.

Dia de los Muertos if you are looking for something a bit different, and perhaps more in line with tradition you can’t go wrong with this; it is one of Mexico’s traditional holidays reuniting and honoring beloved ancestors, family and friends.

Held at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. The daytime event is more Kid Friendly and the evening is probably better suited to those not scared of the dark or being in graveyards at night… Visit ladayofthedead.com for details

ROBIN HOOD BRITISH PUB in Burbank has a fun event lined up for the kids

Visit their website for full details

There are of course so many other fantastic ghastly events happening this month but I just don't have room to include them all here - but I will start a list on our blog which can be found at www.Britsin.LA

So if you have something that you think I should include please drop me a line at here

Till next time

Cheers

Eileen

Good Grief! - by Annie McQueen

2022-10-12T22:29:00.003-07:00

Good Grief!

by guest coulmnist Annie McQueen

I love LA. I hate LA. I go back and forth between these two a lot. Mostly weekly and sometimes daily (if I’ve had a tough day). We all know the pros and cons of living here, so far away from loved ones back in GB etc but these past few weeks have really emphasized the ‘cons’ for me, maybe it has you, too. When I woke up on September the 8th to the news that doctors were concerned for the health of The Queen, my first thought was ‘this is it, she’s going’. I supposed that actually, she had probably already gone, and soon enough the announcement came on multiple news outlets that HM QEII had passed away.

I burst into tears. Unexpectedly so. I was actually a little bit embarrassed in front of my husband. I was instantly overcome with a surge of emotion, a sadness that I’ve only ever experienced with the loss of loved ones and family pets. Why? I didn’t know her, never met her and she was representative of an establishment that were responsible for so much pain suffering in many countries and cultures.

I can only explain my grief for the Queen I’d never met like this; I think I was grieving for my childhood. My young adulthood in London. The 80’s and 90’s when my Grandparents were still alive. Visiting them on a Sunday afternoon for dinner. Listening to the Top Gun sound track on the way there and falling asleep in the car on the way back. Because the death of The Queen to me, signifies the true ending of an era. Obviously not just for people my age who grew up in the 80’s and 90’s, for 4 maybe 5 generations of a nation who grew up in the 50’, 60’s and 70’s with her as their Queen. And what exactly does that mean, on a day to day basis? Not much really as, like I said, I never new her. But what she stood for in terms of her personal and work ethic, her internal mantra, was an example of real ‘British-ness’ which I feel has ended with her passing. We no longer have the stiff upper lip we used to. We moan and complain much more about trivial things and are much more entitled. We dramatize everything to a degree on par with the Americans. Keeping Calm and Carrying on is becoming an adage only good for t- shirts and coasters. Our common sense isn’t that common any more and the PC Police is making taking away our British banter and sarcasm of which we are known and loved for.

So I think that’s what I was grieving for, in that quick moment of raw, unexpected emotion, The Past. My past. Our past. Not 2 days later our new Sovereign met our new Prime Minister. Huge changes to process. So as I grieved for the above over the next couple of days, feeling very nostalgic, watching the Royals grieve for their mother, grandmother, auntie, cousin, etc knowing how they feel. I’d never felt so far away from home and disconnected from being a Brit. I was awestruck at the outpouring of love, from all generations. Hundreds of thousands of people paying their respects to someone that they probably hadn’t met either. Pictures of flowers, Paddington Bear stuffed toys filled the screen with every article I read.

It was pure love.
Love, on a scale almost unimaginable. Then I realized everything I was grieving for, was because I had loved and been loved. I loved having a Queen, I loved her speeches on Christmas Day. I loved singing ‘God Save The Queen’. I loved that the world loved our Queen, and were envious of us having her! I loved my childhood, I had loved my Grandparents and how they made me feel. I loved my Dad so so much and was so loved in return. This grief and nostalgia was a good thing; it showed me how much I love and just how much I have been loved. ‘The harder we love, the harder we grieve’ and ‘grief is the price we pay for love’ are both so very true, and I’ve realized that no matter where I am in the world, I don’t need to be in Britain to feel the love and the connection, It’s in a pocket in my heart which I carry with me every single day and I hope you do too.

Today, I love LA :)

Back from a Bittersweet Blighty Visit

2022-10-02T22:06:00.003-07:00

Hello Everyone!

Did you miss us? In case you didn’t notice, Craig and I took a couple of weeks off; the first time in over 15 years!

It was also the first time we sat on a plane together!

As many of you know, we’ve been friends for almost two decades and have been on several trips but due to conflicting work schedules have always had to meet up at our destination. This time we were both already planning to attend the wedding of a mutual friend in England, so it was the perfect opportunity to try and synchronize our travel arrangements - and we finally managed it!

I’ve been flying solo for so many years it felt rather strange at first to have a companion, but I was relieved to discover that Craig is just as delightful a partner in the air as he is on the ground. It turns out we both dress like nomads on a plane and even packed colour coordinated outfits!

Our arrival in to the UK was bittersweet for it was only a few hours later the world learned that the Queen had died. It felt rather odd to be in England knowing she was no longer at the helm - I don’t know whether this is an ex-pat thing, but it made me realise just how synonymous Great Britain and the Queen are to me and probably to many of you?

Mostly, I felt an emptiness and strangely enough, I didn’t feel compelled to join ‘the queue’ or rush to lay flowers at Buckingham Palace. Perhaps knowing if I did that would make it too real. Several of my friends and family members did go along and all say that they wouldn’t have missed it for the world.

My sister Jayne Norris, was one of those who braved the pilgrimage, and whilst cameras werent allowed in the immediate vicinity, Jayne did manage to capture a few moments along the way and gave me permission to share these photographs.

The first one was taken at Green Park and is of a watermelon carving tribute to the Queen.

And this photograph is of one of my favourite London icons - Big Ben - which apparently rather poignantly failed to chime before and after the one minutes silence that was to mark the end of the nationwide vigil.

One of the lovely things to come out of it was to see Britain ( briefly) united again. The majority of the shops across the country replaced their window displays with tributes to the Queen. The entire nation stopped for a minute of silence on the evening before the funeral. I happened to be on a tram in Nottingham at the time, and the driver came to a halt a few seconds before 8 pm to announce we would be pausing a national moment of mourning. It was quite overwhelming to imagine that moment was being shared by millions of people up and down the country.

The irony wasn’t lost on me that this was an event that Craig and I had pondered over for many years; as we knew when the day finally arrived we would want to put together some kind of impromptu gathering for our Brits in LA community, to not only mourn her passing but celebrate her life. But of course, we were ‘on a break’….

Perhaps it was rather serendipitous as solemn occasions are not really our forte.

I’m curious to know how it felt being back here in LA with such a momentous occasion occurring in our motherland. I find I get terribly homesick when there are big events or news stories breaking from Britain - I still regret not being there for the Jubilee, the 2012 Olympics, or the Euros. Although, as I’ve just discovered the part that mostly appeals to me is not actually attending ‘the event’ but soaking up the surrounding atmosphere and community spirit that comes along with it. I guess it’s similar to being in Hollywood when the Oscars are on - you don’t necessarily need to go, but it is nice to know they are happening just down the road!

If any of you want to share your thoughts or have any comments on this or any other topic you can drop us a line at here or comment on any of our social media platforms which can be found by our handle @BritsinLA

And if you are craving a bit of community spirit why not come along to our weekly pub quiz at the Market Tavern - it’s every Tuesday from 7.30pm. Make sure to get there a few mins before if you need help finding a team to join. Visit www.Britsin.LA for details

Cheers

Eileen