Theater

Yes, LA is known primarily for its movie-making industry, but the city is home to a thriving theater scene as well. Whether you're a fan of lavish Broadway musicals or quirky small productions, you'll find something to love here.

The Kodak Theater in Hollywood, currently home to the Academy Awards, also hosts large-scale touring musical productions, as does the gorgeous, art-deco Pantages Theater, also located in Hollywood. The Performing Arts Center of Los Angeles, also known as the Music Center, is an enormous complex in Downtown LA with several performance venues. Check out the Ahmanson Theater for big Broadway productions. Its smaller Mark Taper Forum hosts more intimately staged plays, including old favorites and exciting new works alike.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, a number of fascinating "99-seat" theaters are home to independent LA theater troupes, many of which put on new and cutting-edge work. Check out Actors' Gang Theatre, the artistic director of which is actor Tim Robbins. Located in Culver City, the company's productions have a decidedly political tone.

For a more varied experience, try the Hudson Theatres, located in Hollywood on Santa Monica Boulevard: Comprising four theaters, this high-quality company showcases comedy sketches, musicals, and more.

And for nothing but fun, head to Sacred Fools Theatre in Hollywood for clever, irreverent original parodies.