Los Angeles is getting a little taste of Italy this November. Verdi OFF, an Italian arts festival, is making its U.S. debut in L.A. with a week of free performances, art workshops, and community events from November 15–22.
The festival was first launched in Parma, Italy, in 2016 by Teatro Regio di Parma. Its goal is to bring art and music outside traditional theaters and into public spaces where everyone can enjoy them.
Now, the festival is coming to Los Angeles through a partnership with the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce West. The local program is the start of a planned three-year residency.
Where to catch the free performances
One of the biggest highlights will be a series of free performances at some of L.A.’s most recognizable landmarks.
Here’s where to find them:
- November 21: Venice Beach Skatepark at 1 p.m.
- November 21: Santa Monica Pier at 2 p.m.
- November 22: Hollywood Walk of Fame at 1 p.m.
- November 22: Lake Hollywood Park at 2 p.m.
More art, food and community events
The festival will also include several events with local organizations.
The celebrations begin November 15 at the eighth annual Italian Excellence Gala & Awards at the Taglyan Complex in Hollywood. The evening will feature performances by students from Education Through Music-Los Angeles and young dancers from Hollywood Ballet and Pasadena Civic Ballet.
On November 17, Italian chef Enrico Bergonzi will team up with the Hollywood Food Coalition to prepare approximately 400 meals for unhoused and food-insecure residents. Dinner service begins at 5:30 p.m., and volunteers are welcome.
On November 18, young people at El Centro del Pueblo in Echo Park can take part in a free art workshop led by Italian artist Francesca Pasquinucci. The program will also include an introductory ballet class taught by Hollywood Ballet co-founder Petra Conti.
For more information, visit Italy-America Chamber of Commerce West or Teatro Regio di Parma.
📅 When: November 15–22
