Putting on a show is not only an art, but in a sense, a science, too. It takes both talented performers and technical pros to pull off an excellent stage production. The International City Theatre has been doing just that in Long Beach since it began back in 1985. This award-winning, professional group is a non-profit entity that consistently delivers an appealing schedule of dramatic, comedic and musical entertainment throughout the year.
Long Beach's proximity to the Pacific Ocean creates a natural setting for aquatic sports. One of the most popular is water polo. The city is actually the home of some of the world's best water polo players that all began playing for Wilson High School. Many have since gone on to play on nationally recognized water polo teams that include the Cadet to National teams.
Art is born out of both inspiration and reflection. A specific geographic area can inspire the creation of some truly amazing art as well as reflect the attitudes and feelings of a particular point in time. Nowhere is that more obvious than at Long Beach's Museum of Latin American Art. These works seem to come alive with both a dimensionality and a spiciness that gives them a personality all their own. The facility was founded in 1996 and holds the distinction of being the only museum of its kind in the United States.
Every August, the sounds of America's music – jazz – fills the Long Beach air. Fans of this historic musical genre gather at Rainbow Lagoon Park to hear some of the top artists on the scene performing during the Long Beach Jazz Festival. This popular three day event is staged on a beautiful grassy knoll in the park that makes for an experience that is as visually stunning as it is aurally pleasing. The festival also features a great selection of food, arts and crafts, as well as the wares of various vendors.