LA’s rich history and entertainment leadership inspires a year-round agenda of world class performances, exhibits and festivals. Here’s a sampling of what’s next:

Bob Dylan’s American Journey, 1956 – 1966
Skirball Cultural Center
Feb. 8 – June 8, 2008
Featuring more than 160 artifacts, including handwritten drafts of classic songs, the exhibit chronicles the rock star/poet’s first 10 years as an artistic innovator and compelling voice of social conscience. www.skirball.org

Festival of New American Musicals
March 4 - July, 2008
Among the dozens of performances and venues spread throughout Southern California, “Klemperer’s New Clothes” will be at Birmingham High School (May 2-10) and the LA Master Chorale will perform “The Grapes of Wrath” at Walt Disney Concert Hall (May 18). www.lafestival.org

78th Blessing of the Animals
Olvera Street, Downtown
March 22, 2008
Festively adorned animals and their human companions gather in the historic Plaza for a procession and blessing by Roger Cardinal Mahony. Everyone is invited to bring their pets. Cultural entertainment and a petting zoo add to the festivities of this age-old pre-Easter ceremony. www.elpueblo.lacity.org

“Keep Your Pantheon”– World Premiere
Kirk Douglas Theatre
May 11 – June 8, 2008
Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning author, playwright and screenplay writer David Mamet, this is a rousing comedy about the fortunes and misfortunes of an acting troupe in ancient Rome. www.centertheatregroup.org

“9 to 5” — World Premiere
Ahmanson Theatre
September 3 – October 19, 2008
Starring multiple Emmy Award-winner and Tony Award-nominee, Allison Janney, the musical follows the plot of the much-loved 1980 motion picture; featuring new songs, music and lyrics by Dolly Parton. www.centertheatregroup.org

LA Opera 2008/09 Season
Dorothy Chandler Pavilion
Sept. 6 – June 21, 2009
LA Opera Company general director Placido Domingo has announced the 2008/09 Season, featuring seven new productions to be staged by acclaimed directors, including Woody Allen, David Cronenberg and Robert Wilson. Productions include Il Trittico, The Fly and Madama Butterfly. www.laopera.com