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The Music Center's Black Bar Social

Free monthly speakeasy-style gatherings at The Music Center

Grab a drink at the iconic black bars and engage in thought-provoking discussions sparked by featured provocateurs—artists, tastemakers, and community partners who challenge perspectives and ignite creativity. Delve into innovations in science, technology, culture and societal movements, and help to shape ideas that resonate with an ever-evolving Los Angeles.

At The Music Center’s Black Bar Social, we offer more than just happy hour. It's an opportunity to socialize big ideas, forge meaningful connections and explore the possibilities for L.A.’s future.

Thanks for joining us this year. Black Bar Social will return in 2025!

Past Event Recaps

  • Artificial Intelligence & The Rasquache Realm | October 8, 2024

    Provocateur: Alex Rivera

    Focus: Explore the possibilities and perils of AI through the lens of Rasquachismo, with an immersive evening of films, art and discussion.

    Watch Now
  • One Who Looks at the Cup | September 17, 2024

    Provocateur: Mashinka Firunts Hakopian

    Focus: Can AI divine our future?

    Watch Now
  • HOST | August 13, 2024

    Provocateur: Lauren Lee McCarthy

    Focus: Can AI do a better job than a human at helping us to be human?

    Watch Now
  • Dancing with the Ancestors | July 9, 2024

    Provocateur: Sultan Sharrief

    Focus: What might your collective ancestors say to each other if they saw you today and how you live?

    Watch Now
  • A TEC Leimert Prospective | June 11, 2024

    Provocateur: TEC Leimert featuring The Afrokosmic Ark of Ben Caldwell

    Focus: Future society through a perspective of Black culture and the practices in the book KAOS Theory: The Afrokosmic Ark of Ben Caldwell.

    Watch Now
  • Black Bar Social Soft Launch | May 14, 2024

    A special soft launch event for Black Bar Social

    Watch Now

Artificial Intelligence & The Rasquache Realm | October 8, 2024

One Who Looks at the Cup | September 17, 2024

HOST | August 13, 2024

Dancing with the Ancestors | July 9, 2024

A TEC Leimert Prospective | June 11, 2024

Black Bar Social Soft Launch | May 14, 2024

Thank You to Our Sponsor

TMC Arts

When we speak of our vision to deepen the cultural lives of all Angelenos, we turn to the work of TMC Arts. This team champions the diverse voices and communities of Los Angeles, fostering connection, creativity and enrichment. TMC Arts programs connect people, offering us the chance to get creative and to learn as we discover something new or enjoy something familiar. Many programs are free and low-cost; they take place outdoors on Jerry Moss Plaza at The Music Center and in Grand Park, inside The Music Center's theatres and in schools and neighborhoods all across L.A. County.

Learn More
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135 N. Grand Avenue

Los Angeles, CA 90012

(213) 972-7211


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