10 Things to Do Around LA This Weekend: February 7-9, 2014

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Although we had some rain this week and Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow last Sunday, don’t let cloudy skies and colder temperatures keep you inside this weekend. It’s your last full weekend to make preparations for that certain holiday coming up on February 14. If you don’t have a special someone yet, maybe you can meet your Valentine at one of these events.

Friday, February 7

FILM

Across the Universe @ Egyptian Theatre (Hollywood)

Sunday is the 50th anniversary of the Beatles’ first live American television performance on “The Ed Sullivan Show,” so in observance BAFTA Los Angeles and American Cinematheque present a screening of Julie Taymor’s romantic musical ode to the Fab Four, 2007’s Across the Universe. Evan Rachel Wood and Jim Sturgess star in the film, which features 33 Beatles compositions, from “Helter Skelter,” “Strawberry Fields Forever” and “I Want to Hold Your Hand” to “Happiness is a Warm Gun,” “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” and “Something.” You’ll be singing along and rooting for Jude to capture Lucy’s heart for good.

MUSIC

Delorean @ El Rey Theatre (Miracle Mile)

After releasing their fourth album, Apar, last fall, the Spanish foursome embarked on tour. Instead of a routine journey across North America, they experienced a terrifying ordeal when they were taken hostage in Mexico City by criminals hoping to extort money from their families. The group is putting that horrible experience behind them with a slew of rescheduled dates across the continent, including tonight’s show at the El Rey. Escape the craziness of life for an hour or so by losing yourself in Delorean’s lush compositions full of synthesizers, vocals, piano, drums and guitar.

Saturday, February 8

BOOKS

Sam Harris @ Skylight Books (Los Feliz)

I remember being a little girl totally in awe of Sam Harris’ rendition of “Over the Rainbow” that led to his “Star Search” grand champion win. He went onto a successful in recording, Broadway, film and television, and he just released a collection of true-to-life essays and stories called Ham: Slices of a Life. The hilarious yet powerful tales deal with growing up gay in the Bible belt, partying, sobriety and parenting. Harris reads from and signs copies of the book at 5 p.m.

CULTURE

The Edwardian Ball @ The Fonda Theatre (Hollywood)

Does the art, music, theater and fashion inspired by the creations of Edward Gorey utterly captivate you? Well, dust off your tux or corset and head to the 14th annual Edwardian Ball for an evening of elegant whimsy. There will be ballroom dancing, live music, circus-type performers and costumed guests galore, all capped off by a staging of Gorey’s classic book from 1961, The Curious Sofa.

FILM

Alfonso Cuarón @ Aero Theatre (Santa Monica)

As March 2 approaches, it would be prudent of all film buffs to see all of the Best Picture nominees. Why not check one of them off your list at this special screening of Gravity from Best Director nominee Alfonso Cuarón? The film is nominated in eight additional categories, including Best Actress in a Leading Role (Sandra Bullock), Cinematography, Editing and Visual Effects. Immediately after is a discussion with Cuarón, followed by his 2001 coming-of-age, road film Y Tu Mamá También, starring two of my favorite Mexican actors, Diego Luna and Gael García Bernal.

FOOD

L.A. Bacon Festival @ Petersen Automotive Museum (Miracle Mile)

There’s no doubt that foodies love pork fat. In fact, the first bacon fest last year was such a success that Drink Eat Play decided to bring it back again this year. If you aren’t already hungry, just reading a short list of some of the submissions from vendors like Mendocino Farms, Starry Kitchen and Slater’s 50/50 will get your stomach rumbling. Here you go: Bourbon Bacon Caramel Corn, Five Spice Kurobuta Bacon, Beer-Braised Pork Belly Tacos, Bacon Ice Cream Sandwiches and Red Velvet Bacon Cupcakes.

SPORTS

L.A. Galaxy vs FC Shirak @ StubHub Center (Carson)

With former Galaxy player David Beckham announcing his purchase of an MLS expansion team in Miami earlier this week, soccer lovers anticipation for the 2014 season became even more heightened. Los Angeles’ team play their first preseason match at the StubHub Center tonight against the reigning Armenian Premier League champions, FC Shirak. This first-ever meeting go the two squads should be an exciting one.

UCLA vs. USC Men’s Basketball @ Galen Center (South Los Angeles)

Sigh, it’s true that my Trojans are dead last in the Pac-12 and were crushed 107-73 by the Bruins when the teams first met this season last month. UCLA is sitting in second in the conference at 6-3 (17-5 overall), so the odds aren’t in USC’s (10-12, 1-8 Pac-12) favor. A girl can have hope, though, can’t she? You never know what can happen when the crosstown rivals meet because emotions always run high.

Sunday, February 9

CULTURE

Victorian Valentine Tour @ Grier Musser Museum (Westlake)

I had a Victorian-style doll house and have always thought that style of home is adorable. If you or your loved one love L.A. history and/or Victorian architecture, then you should definitely visit this 1898 Queen Anne-style house. You can take a tour of the 13-room home and see their special collection of antique Valentines, teddy bears and kewpie dolls.

MUSIC

Tenacious D @ The Echo (Echo Park)

When Jack Black and Kyle Gass formed the D back in 1994, their first performances were acoustic. The comedic rockers return to their roots with this acoustic set benefitting Temple Israel of Hollywood. You’re sure to hear cool versions of favorites from all three of their albums, just make sure to get there early if you haven’t bought a ticket yet. Advance tickets are sold out, but a limited amount might be available at the door.

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