top of page
Writer's pictureAsma Aslam

Falcon Theatre in Toluca Lake, California

Updated: May 20, 2023

Located in the heart of Toluca Lake, California, the Falcon Theatre has been a staple of the Los Angeles theatre scene since its founding in 1997. This intimate, 130-seat venue has been home to a wide range of productions, from world premieres to classic plays to musicals. The Falcon Theatre was founded by Garry Marshall, a beloved figure in the entertainment industry who had a long and successful career as a writer, producer, and director of film and television. Marshall had a passion for theatre and wanted to create a space where artists could develop and showcase their work. He named the theatre after his father, Anthony W. Marshall, who was a prominent producer in the early days of television.

Since its opening, the Falcon Theatre has produced over 200 productions, including many world premieres. Some of the notable productions that have originated at the Falcon include "The Troubadour" by Rick Batalla, "Distracted" by Lisa Loomer, and "Moonlight and Magnolias" by Ron Hutchinson. The theatre has also been home to a number of successful musicals, including "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee," "The Marvelous Wonderettes," and "Scott and Hem," which was written by Mark St. Germain and starred Tom Hanks and Peter Gerety.

In addition to producing its own shows, the Falcon Theatre also hosts a number of other events and performances. The theatre has been home to the Colony Theatre Company, a well-respected Los Angeles theatre company, since 2014. The Falcon also hosts a popular improv comedy show called "The 4th Wall" on Thursday nights, as well as a variety of other comedy and music shows throughout the year.

One of the unique aspects of the Falcon Theatre is its commitment to education and outreach. The theatre offers a number of programs and classes for both children and adults, including acting classes, playwriting workshops, and summer camps. The Falcon also hosts a program called "Falcons for the Arts," which provides free tickets to low-income families and schools so that they can experience live theatre.

The Falcon Theatre has received numerous accolades and awards over the years, including multiple Ovation Awards and LA Drama Critics Circle Awards. The theatre has also been recognized for its commitment to diversity and inclusion in the arts. In 2019, the Falcon was awarded a grant from the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs to support its efforts to promote cultural equity.


One of the reasons the Falcon Theatre has been so successful over the years is its commitment to fostering a sense of community. The theatre has become a gathering place for artists and theatre lovers alike, and its intimate size allows for a truly immersive and engaging theatre experience. The Falcon's staff and crew are known for their professionalism and dedication to their craft, and they work tirelessly to ensure that every production is of the highest quality.

The Falcon Theatre is also a beloved institution in the Toluca Lake community. The theatre is located in a charming and historic building on Riverside Drive, and its marquee is a recognizable landmark in the neighborhood. The Falcon's commitment to education and outreach has also endeared it to local residents, who appreciate the theatre's efforts to make the arts accessible to everyone.

Looking ahead, the Falcon Theatre shows no signs of slowing down. The theatre has a number of exciting productions lined up for the coming months, including a new musical called "Under the Bodhi Tree," which tells the story of the Buddha's life. The theatre also has plans to expand its education and outreach programs, and to continue fostering a sense of community in Toluca Lake and beyond.

In conclusion, the Falcon Theatre is a true gem of the Los Angeles theatre scene. Its commitment to producing high-quality productions, fostering a sense of community, and promoting cultural equity has made it a beloved institution in the Toluca Lake community and beyond. The theatre's intimate size and dedication to education and outreach make it a unique and special place for both artists and audiences.

If you're a theatre lover in Los Angeles, the Falcon Theatre is definitely worth a visit. Whether you're looking for a thought-provoking drama, a hilarious comedy, or a toe-tapping musical, the Falcon has something for everyone. And with its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and community, you can feel good about supporting this wonderful theatre and its mission. Shopping on Riverside Drive in Toluca Lake, California If you are looking for a pleasant and unique shopping experience in Toluca Lake, California, look no further than Riverside Drive. This bustling thoroughfare is filled with a variety of shops and stores that cater to a wide range of interests and needs. Whether you are in the market for designer clothes, home decor, or delicious food, you are sure to find something that piques your interest along Riverside Drive.

One of the most iconic shops on Riverside Drive is the famed Iliad Bookshop. This charming store has been a staple of the Toluca Lake community for over two decades and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With over 100,000 books in stock, Iliad Bookshop is a book lover's paradise. The store is especially known for its impressive collection of rare and out-of-print books, which draws collectors from all over Southern California.

If you are in the mood for some retail therapy, be sure to stop by the various clothing and accessory shops along Riverside Drive. For chic and trendy clothing, head to Armani Exchange, which offers a wide selection of stylish clothes for men and women. Another popular clothing store on Riverside Drive is the upscale boutique Soto. Soto specializes in high-end designer clothing and accessories for women, and their selection is always changing to reflect the latest fashion trends.

Home decor enthusiasts will find plenty to love on Riverside Drive as well. One standout store is the eclectic Vintage Emporium, which offers a unique collection of antique and vintage home decor items. From antique lamps to vintage artwork, this store has something for every taste and style. Another must-visit shop for home decor aficionados is the upscale boutique My Bespoke Room. This charming store specializes in custom-made furniture and home decor pieces that are designed to fit your unique style and taste.

Of course, no shopping trip is complete without indulging in some delicious food. Riverside Drive has plenty of options when it comes to dining, ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. For a quick and tasty meal, be sure to stop by Porto's Bakery & Cafe. This beloved Cuban bakery serves up some of the best pastries and sandwiches in the area. If you are looking for a more upscale dining experience, head to Olive & Thyme. This chic bistro offers a range of gourmet dishes and a carefully curated wine list.

Finally, Riverside Drive is also home to a number of specialty shops that cater to specific interests and hobbies. For example, the upscale toy store Puzzle Zoo offers a wide selection of toys and games that are perfect for kids of all ages. The store is especially known for its impressive collection of jigsaw puzzles, which range in difficulty from easy to challenging. Another popular specialty store on Riverside Drive is the Guitar Merchant. This well-stocked store offers a wide selection of guitars, amps, and accessories, making it a favorite among musicians and music lovers alike.

In addition to its many shops and stores, Riverside Drive also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and entertainment. For example, the nearby Lakeside Golf Club offers a challenging 18-hole course that is popular among golfers of all skill levels. The club also features a driving range, putting green, and pro shop. Additionally, the nearby Warner Bros. Studios offers tours that allow visitors to explore the iconic sets and soundstages where some of the biggest movies and TV shows in Hollywood history were made.

Overall, shopping on Riverside Drive in Toluca Lake, California is a unique and enjoyable experience. With its wide variety of shops, specialty stores, and restaurants, there is truly something for everyone along this bustling thoroughfare. Whether you are looking for designer clothes, antique home decor, or delicious food, you are sure to find it on Riverside Drive. So next time you find yourself in Toluca Lake, be sure to carve out some time to explore this charming and vibrant shopping district.

One of the things that sets Riverside Drive apart from other shopping destinations is its unique blend of upscale boutiques and specialty shops. This creates a shopping experience that is both high-end and down-to-earth. Whether you are in the market for luxury fashion or vintage home decor, you will find a shop on Riverside Drive that caters to your tastes and preferences.

In addition to its shops and restaurants, Riverside Drive also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and entertainment. For example, nearby Griffith Park offers miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as a zoo and a planetarium. The park is also home to the iconic Griffith Observatory, which offers stunning views of the city and the stars above. Whether you are a nature lover or a science enthusiast, Griffith Park has something for everyone.

Another popular attraction on Riverside Drive is the nearby Universal Studios Hollywood. This world-famous theme park offers a range of rides, shows, and attractions that are sure to thrill visitors of all ages. From the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the Jurassic World ride, Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and memorable day out.

Of course, no trip to Riverside Drive would be complete without sampling some of the area's delicious food and drink. For a casual meal or snack, be sure to check out the various food trucks and street vendors that line the street. These vendors offer a range of tasty treats, from tacos and burritos to ice cream and shaved ice.

For a more upscale dining experience, head to one of the many restaurants along Riverside Drive. For example, the popular sushi restaurant Sushi Yuzu offers a range of fresh and creative sushi dishes that are sure to delight even the most discerning palates. Another standout restaurant on Riverside Drive is The Front Yard, which offers a range of modern American cuisine in a chic and stylish setting.

Overall, shopping on Riverside Drive in Toluca Lake, California is an experience that is not to be missed. Whether you are in the mood for some retail therapy, a delicious meal, or some outdoor recreation, Riverside Drive has something for everyone. So next time you find yourself in Toluca Lake, be sure to make your way to this charming and vibrant shopping district and discover all that it has to offer.






3 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page