Tuesday, January 31, 2012

#225: The Skirball Cultural Center


Driving to work, I'd always hear the Skirball Center mentioned on the radio. I had no idea what it was, but the name sounds like Skeeter Ball, which made me think of arcades. Turns out, the only thing that Skeeter Ball and the Skirball have in common is that they're both fun for kids.

The Skirball Center is a museum and performance venue in one. It hosts music, comedy, film, talks and theater performances and also features exhibits and a cafe. Last weekend some of the museums in L.A. were having free admission, including the Skirball, so Brad and I checked it out.

Pearls of Wisdom: End the Violence

The Skirball's core exhibit is called Visions and Values: Jewish Life from Antiquity to America. It traces Judaism's roots all the way to life in America. The current rotating exhibit is called Women Hold Up Half the Sky which encourages visitors to take action on behalf of mistreated women and girls around the world.

Mosaic floor from an old temple




One thing that we didn't get to see which I was disappointed about was Noah's Ark, an interactive playground for kids. It was sold out when we got there. To avoid this, you can buy tickets online in advance.

Noah's Ark
pic from Familyigloo



A replica of the largest Jewish temple in Germany
Women Hold Up the Sky exhibit

Places to write notes to women in peril around the world


We enjoyed our tour of the Skirball, and I would definitely recommend it for families--It seemed that most people there had babies or kids in tow. The grounds are fairly large, and it is nice to walk around the buildings and admire the architecture. General Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and full time students, $5 for children 2 to 12, and free for children under 2.  Exhibits are free to the public on Thursdays.

Have you been to the Skirball Cultural Center? What did you think of it? Leave me a comment below!

Skirball Cultural Center



2 comments:

  1. I didn't spend too long in Noah's Ark, but I could see the appeal of it for children. I don't think you missed out on much :) If you do visit the Skirball again, make sure to stop by Zeidler's Cafe inside the center. Their salmon pastrami club sandwiches and gaufrette potatoes are quite tasty :)

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