'Tis The Season for Kitschy Americana, Courtesy Charles Phoenix

When we last saw Charles Phoenix, the histo-tainer was, of course, speaking at the start of last month's 6th annual Great Los Angeles Walk. Charles mentioned to us that this is his busiest time of year -- and given how retro Americana seems to be popular this time of year, you can see why. (That's Maria with Charles after we caught his show in 2009 -- read about it here.)

Phoenix's popular holiday slide show, featuring kitschy shots from the 50s and 60s, is celebrating its 10th year and returns to L.A. next Sunday, Dec. 18, at downtown's REDCAT theater. Haven't been to one of Charlie Phoenix's slide shows? Here's what to expect:

Phoenix's beloved annual offering gives glory to the spirit of celebration, including holidays from throughout the year, in one time-traveling journey. Experience politically incorrect New Year's Rose Parade floats, a bizarre Lamb Cake Contest on Easter Sunday, and an explosion of patriotic pride on the Fourth of July, followed by howlingly funny homemade Halloween costumes, the truly tragic life of a Thanksgiving turkey, and a Yuletide bondage party.

This retro revelry is sure to get everyone in the mood for the season to come, and Phoenix helps point the way with forecasts on retro-inspired trends in decadent dŽcor, crafty creations, gift ideas, fun food, and more. Festive holiday dress is encouraged.

Admission is $30; go to the REDCAT website or CharlesPhoenix.com for more info.

Charles Phoenix's Retro Holiday Slide Show
Sunday, December 18, 2011 at 3:00 pm & 7:00 pm
REDCAT (Roy and Edna Disney/CalArts Theater)
631 West 2nd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Children's Film Festival Returns to the Redcat

The Roy and Edna Disney/CalArts Theater (REDCAT) brings back its annual International Children's Film Festival starting this Saturday, March 26, and continuing through April 17.

Tix are just $5 per screening; we took Evan to the event two years ago for a screening of shorts (read about our experience here), and noted at the time that it was truly the "only film festival where crying, talking and sleeping during a movie is deemed acceptable behavior."

More details on this year:

Presented by CalArts in partnership with Northwest Film Forum, the festival features four weekends of mind-expanding programs of short films from around the globe made by acclaimed filmmakers and up-and-coming auteurs alike. More than 100 works of wondrous animation and exhilarating live-action have been hand-selected and grouped into programs designed for children as young as two years of age by festival curator Elizabeth Sheperd.

This audience favorite offers a treasure trove of enchanting programs for tiny tots, chills and thrills for adventurous older viewers, and films sure to inspire the whole family. Festival highlights include new animation from China curated by acclaimed animator Joe Chang, emerging talents of indigenous filmmakers from around the world, and a very special Nick Family Fun Day on Sunday, March 27, 2011.

Tix are $5 per screening; I definitely recommend. Check out the schedule here.

Roy and Edna Disney/CalArts Theater
631 West 2nd Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
213 237-2800