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  • Surf the soulful side of Southern California when NAMBA Performing Arts Center lights up downtown Ventura with a triple-bill that’s pure sonic sunshine. Roots-rock road warrior Shawn Jones rolls in fresh from 200-plus annual shows across the US and Europe, armed with the gritty guitar fireworks and honey-smoked vocals that have earned him stages alongside B.B. King, Bonnie Raitt, and Robert Cray. Sharing the spotlight is honey-toned indie-folk storyteller Shane Alexander, whose cinematic melodies and intimate tenor have filled Red Rocks, The Ryman, and playlists worldwide (30 million streams and counting). Rounding out the night, Portugal-born, NYC-forged multi-instrumentalist Paulo Coelho channels globe-trotting funk-pop energy—refined on tours with Prince, George Clinton, and Maroon 5—into an uplifting set that turns every seat into a dance-floor. Three distinct voices, one intimate room: prepare for blistering solos, goose-bump harmonies, and West Coast vibes that remind us why NAMBA’s mission is “enriching community through the power of performance.” Grab your tickets, feel the Ventura sea breeze, and let the music carry you home.
  • Renowned Western artist Joe Milazzo’s intricate pen-and-ink and charcoal drawings will be on display at the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum beginning October 11. The title of the show is “Blessed: The Western Way of Life." Milazzo’s drawings depict ranch life, historical figures, and sweeping landscapes. His subjects range from cowboys and horses to iconic Western scenes. Milazzo’s artwork has been showcased in prestigious locations, including the Ronald Reagan Center in Santa Barbara. The October 11 opening reception with the artist is from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The museum will be open to the public on Sunday, October 12, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. with Milazzo in attendance. A limited number of Milazzo’s works will be on sale. For tickets to the opening reception, go to www.santaynezmuseum.org/joe-milazzo-art-exhibition-sale.
  • “Kiki Yeung is a comedy pioneer!” - NBCLA

    Kiki Yeung is a Hong Kong and LA based comedian, actress, and producer, whose shows always sell out fast! Kiki blends her American upbringing and Cantonese sharp wit into a hilarious combination of sassy humor and animated act outs. Kiki is the founder of Crazy Woke Asians, the award winning, nationally touring comedy show featuring the funniest Asian American comedians. Creator of “Kiki Funny Mama's Night Out” docu-series featuring the funniest Asian American female comedians.

    Kiki and Santa Monica Playhouse Artistic Directors Chris DeCarlo and Evelyn Rudie curated the first Asian-American Solo Festival in Los Angeles, an event that continues annually.

    Ms. Yeung has been featured in Elizabeth Bank's Whohaha's Comedy Callout, LA Times, The Seattle Times, Time-out New York, NBC LA, CBS and more. Watch Kiki on ABC's The Parent Test. She performed at The Netflix is a Joke Fest, and headlined to sold out crowds at the New York Comedy Festival, Carolines on Broadway, The Comedy Store, The Ice House, Laugh Factory, Hollywood Improv, Cobbs Comedy Club, Kenan Presents and more.

    Her new touring show, “Kiki Yeung Cantonese Mom” premiered at Rodney's Comedy Club for the Knockouts Women's Comedy Festival. Catch her one-hour special “Don't Get Sick and Die” filmed in her hometown Seattle. Kiki is touring nationwide and will be headlining at the Hong Kong International Comedy Festival in September. Rated; 16 and up
  • For those that have a basic understanding of Qi Gong already and are ready for more advanced forms. This is the continuation of Qigong Level 1 workshop.

    Join us for a rare and deeply nourishing seminar that bridges ancient wisdom and modern well-being. This immersive experience invites you into the timeless tradition of Shaolin Qi Gong and Kung Fu—arts rooted in mindfulness, healing, and the harmonious integration of body, mind, and spirit.

    Under the guidance of Shifu Yantuo, a 34th-generation Shaolin master, you’ll be introduced to powerful yet gentle practices designed to awaken life force (Qi), enhance self-awareness, and cultivate resilience from the inside out.


    What to Expect
    * Insight & Wisdom: A rich introduction to internal Qi Gong—exploring flowing movement, breathwork, and meditative awareness as tools for healing and personal empowerment.
    * Tea Ceremony: Begin with a calming tea ritual led by Flowing River, inviting presence, intention, and connection.

    Qi Gong Practice - Level 2
    * Ground yourself with standing meditation to activate internal energy.
    * Learn the Eight Brocades, an accessible and profound Qi Gong form that opens energy pathways and promotes vitality.
    * Conclude with a silent meditation to absorb and integrate the practice in deep stillness.


    Why Attend?
    * Deepen your mindfulness practice through embodied movement
    * Experience traditional Qi Gong directly from a Shaolin lineage
    * Support emotional balance, immune strength, and holistic well-being
    * Reconnect with a sense of calm, clarity, and presence


    Whether you're new to these practices or seeking to deepen your path of self-discovery, this seminar offers a sacred space to realign, reflect, and grow.

    Facilitators

    Shifu Yantuo

    Common name: Wang Lu, Buddhist name: Shi Yan Tuo a 34th generation Shaolin disciple. Native of Shandong province of China. He has been learning local traditional martial arts from his father since he was six years of age. In 1997 given a special opportunity, he was able to enter and train in Shaolin Temple. In 2000 he formally became the 34th generation of Shaolin Warrior monk under his teacher, the abbot of Shaolin Temple, Shi Yong Xin. Under both his master’s strict and compassionate guidance and his long hours of practice, he quickly mastered traditional Kung Fu hand forms, weapons, sparring forms, and internal Qi Gong forms. Over the course of his training, he grasped the spirit of “Zen Kung Fu Are One” which embodies the need for both spiritual and physical training. Always keeping the essence of this phrase in mind, he quickly rose up the ranks and became one of the top students of the 34th generation. During the time when he was still training in the temple, he was able to participate in many international exchanges in America, Europe, Australia, Thailand, Korea and some more countries. In 2008, the Shaolin Temple was given the privilege to go to Seoul, Korea’ s Shaolin’s Cultural Center to spread the teachings of Shaolin. In 2009, he was given the rare opportunity to begin teaching in Los Angles and Bay Area. In 2014 he established school the Shaolin Temple of San Diego until 2020.

    Now based in Seattle, WA teaching via online, in person, and traveling for seminars. He wishes to spread the spirit and essence of Shaolin Arts and Kung Fu to others.


    Flowing RIver

    Flowing River is a poet, musician, and spiritualist that studies under the tutelage of Bhai Bahadur Singh Ji and the Sangat of the Divine Light. Having traveled to over 30 countries over the past 15 years he has amassed a wealth of knowledge on how to cleanse, clear, and purify the mind, body, and spirit. Flowing River shares this wisdom freely with all who are ready to make a positive change in their lives for the better. Now he aims to cultivate conscious community through cups of tea that warm the heart and enlighten the soul.
  • The Good Good Show is a stand up comedy show featuring the hottest comedians working today that you've seen or heard on Comedy Central, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, The Tonight Show, HBO's Crashing, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Netfli, Jimmy Kimmel, Sirius XM and more.

    FEATURING: Wayne Federman, Eli Olsberg, Julie Weidmann and Ric Rosario.

    Come have some laughs with us and enjoy a delicious craft beer (wine available too)!

    7:30 p.m. $10

    Show is 21+
  • “GOLD MEDAL! Ebenstein’s show is as entertaining as he is engaging!” the TVolution

    Through story and song, actor/musician Jeremy Ebenstein shares an inside look at the humorous, inspiring, yet often heartbreaking story of living a life with Asperger's Syndrome. With eight original songs and compositions, Ebenstein chronicles his journey from childhood to adulthood, addressing universal issues like childhood bullying, hopeful romance, and overcoming depression. He offers his unique take on the struggles of everyday life, from relationships, to being able to hold down the simplest of jobs, yet always striving towards his dreams of being accepted and living a successful life.

    Pain In My Asperger's is a story of optimism and love, not only for those suffering with Asperger's Syndrome (a form of autism) who need to overcome the additional challenges that Asperger's presents, but for all who have ever hoped and dreamed of making something of themselves.

    Jeremy started playing piano at age 29. Music, a skill unaffected by his condition, inspired him to tell his story about the trials and tribulations of living with Asperger's Syndrome, a developmental disorder affecting the ability to effectively socialize, learn, and communicate. The piece was developed with Jack Fry (Einstein!, They Call Me Mister Fry), in the Jack Fry Solo Workshops, in collaboration with Debra Ehrhardt (Jamaica Farewell, Cocktales) as creative consultant.

    Saturday, August 2, 2025

    Santa Monica Playhouse is supported in part by the City of Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Arts Commission, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors through the Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture, the Ahmanson Foundation, the Santa Monica Rotary Club Foundation and Playhouse PALS.
  • Discover inner stillness, cultivate vitality, and reconnect with your true nature.

    Join us for a rare and deeply nourishing seminar that bridges ancient wisdom and modern well-being. This immersive experience invites you into the timeless tradition of Shaolin Qi Gong and Kung Fu—arts rooted in mindfulness, healing, and the harmonious integration of body, mind, and spirit.

    Under the guidance of Shifu Yantuo, a 34th-generation Shaolin master, you’ll be introduced to powerful yet gentle practices designed to awaken life force (Qi), enhance self-awareness, and cultivate resilience from the inside out.


    What to Expect
    * Insight & Wisdom: A rich introduction to internal Qi Gong—exploring flowing movement, breathwork, and meditative awareness as tools for healing and personal empowerment.
    * Tea Ceremony: Begin with a calming tea ritual led by Flowing River, inviting presence, intention, and connection.

    Qi Gong Practice - Level 1
    * Ground yourself with standing meditation to activate internal energy.
    * Learn the Eight Brocades, an accessible and profound Qi Gong form that opens energy pathways and promotes vitality.
    * Conclude with a silent meditation to absorb and integrate the practice in deep stillness.


    Why Attend?
    * Deepen your mindfulness practice through embodied movement
    * Experience traditional Qi Gong directly from a Shaolin lineage
    * Support emotional balance, immune strength, and holistic well-being
    * Reconnect with a sense of calm, clarity, and presence


    Whether you're new to these practices or seeking to deepen your path of self-discovery, this seminar offers a sacred space to realign, reflect, and grow.

    Facilitators

    Shifu Yantuo

    Common name: Wang Lu, Buddhist name: Shi Yan Tuo a 34th generation Shaolin disciple. Native of Shandong province of China. He has been learning local traditional martial arts from his father since he was six years of age. In 1997 given a special opportunity, he was able to enter and train in Shaolin Temple. In 2000 he formally became the 34th generation of Shaolin Warrior monk under his teacher, the abbot of Shaolin Temple, Shi Yong Xin. Under both his master’s strict and compassionate guidance and his long hours of practice, he quickly mastered traditional Kung Fu hand forms, weapons, sparring forms, and internal Qi Gong forms. Over the course of his training, he grasped the spirit of “Zen Kung Fu Are One” which embodies the need for both spiritual and physical training. Always keeping the essence of this phrase in mind, he quickly rose up the ranks and became one of the top students of the 34th generation. During the time when he was still training in the temple, he was able to participate in many international exchanges in America, Europe, Australia, Thailand, Korea and some more countries. In 2008, the Shaolin Temple was given the privilege to go to Seoul, Korea’ s Shaolin’s Cultural Center to spread the teachings of Shaolin. In 2009, he was given the rare opportunity to begin teaching in Los Angles and Bay Area. In 2014 he established school the Shaolin Temple of San Diego until 2020.

    Now based in Seattle, WA teaching via online, in person, and traveling for seminars. He wishes to spread the spirit and essence of Shaolin Arts and Kung Fu to others.


    Flowing RIver

    Flowing River is a poet, musician, and spiritualist that studies under the tutelage of Bhai Bahadur Singh Ji and the Sangat of the Divine Light. Having traveled to over 30 countries over the past 15 years he has amassed a wealth of knowledge on how to cleanse, clear, and purify the mind, body, and spirit. Flowing River shares this wisdom freely with all who are ready to make a positive change in their lives for the better. Now he aims to cultivate conscious community through cups of tea that warm the heart and enlighten the soul.
  • We’re electrified to host Beto Hale, a genre‑blending multi‑instrumentalist whose journey from Mexico City to Berklee, via NYC and Denver, now brings rich rhythms to NAMBA in Ventura. Imagine an intimate evening immersed in his eclectic originals and beloved classics, brought to life by a stellar ensemble of LA and Ventura musicians. It’s cultural exploration with a surf‑and‑sound twist—fearlessly diverse, deeply soulful, and heartbreakingly intimate. Join us for an evening that celebrates NAMBA’s commitment to community, artistry, and celebration under the California sky.

    About Beta Hale
    Born and raised in the heart of Mexico City, Beto Hale’s musical journey blossomed at Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he earned a scholarship to sharpen his craft. Since 2000, he’s been releasing his own music independently, evolving his sound as a multi‑instrumentalist, singer‑songwriter, and producer across a kaleidoscope of genres and styles. Beto has called New York City, Denver, Los Angeles, and Oxnard home—and from Los Olivos Recording Studios (his own creative haven), he’s left his mark on Latin Grammy–nominated albums and produced emerging independent talents. A passionate mentor, he spends every summer guiding young songwriters and musicians, sharing his deep well of experience. Recent collaborations include performances and recordings with the legendary LA band Ozomatli and Colombia’s trailblazing Latin‑Alternative icons Aterciopelados. At NAMBA, he’ll deliver an intimate set of favorite classics and fresh originals, supported by an outstanding band drawn from LA and Ventura’s fertile music scene. Don’t miss this fearless, community‑driven celebration of sound—visit betohale.com for more.

    Tickets are $20.00 online or $25.00 at door.
  • Orny Adams has appeared on every late night television show. His “More Than Loud” comedy special on YouTube has 7 million views. Orny has had one hour stand-up specials on Netflix, Comedy Central and Showtime. Orny has toured all over the world and gives a full throttle, high energy show. And you may also recognize him from the hit TV show Teen Wolf and the new Teen Wolf movie just released on Paramount Plus. And Orny has well over a million followers on social media.

    Orny Adams delivers a powerful, incisive stand up routine that vacillates between the relevant and the absurd. Orny attacks what’s wrong with the world and sometimes even what’s wrong with Orny. He’s brutally honest, satirical and his performance is ceaselessly energetic.
  • Join Our Monthly Sewing & Mending Club!

    Discover the joy of creating and repairing with our welcoming community at the Explore Ecology Makerspace. Whether you're a seasoned seamstress or just beginning your sewing journey, our monthly club is the perfect place to bring your projects to life.

    Every month, we invite you to drop in with your sewing ideas, projects, or mending needs. Our Makerspace is equipped with nine sewing machines and a wide array of materials to fuel your creativity. Plus, our knowledgeable staff is always on hand to offer guidance, tips, and tricks to help you bring your vision to reality.

    From crafting personalized garments to reviving old favorites through expert mending techniques, there's no limit to what you can achieve with our supportive community by your side.

    Join us for a night of creativity, camaraderie, and crafting excellence. Your next sewing adventure awaits at the Explore Ecology Makerspace. See you there!
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