GP360-A Grand Performances Podcast

At Grand Performances (GP), we’re always looking for new ways to deepen our connection with community. We want you to understand who we are, where we’ve been, and the ways we intend to strengthen LA’s performing arts scene. To give you a closer look at our past, present, and future, we’re excited to announce the official launch of GP360 – A Grand Performances Podcast!

Hosted by Anthony Valadez, each podcast episode will take a unique dive into GP’s rich, forty-year history. Through honest conversations, we’ll hear directly from artists who have graced the California Plaza stage as they reflect on what Grand Performances means to them. Their stories about authenticity and artistic evolution will move you. You’ll also hear from people behind the scenes who work year-round at GP to bring you a concert series that is curated with intention and care, summer after summer. These firsthand perspectives will help to paint the picture of how a million small, moving pieces fit together to create a compelling concert series worthy of your attendance.

Care Camp, 2025, at the Los Angeles Arboretum

In our premiere episode of GP360, host Anthony Valadez looks back at his visit to Care Camp in January of 2025. An initiative of LA County Parks and Recreation, Care Camp provided support to children and families displaced by the Eaton Fire. We hear emotional testimonies from people on the ground at Care Camp who came together in the face of unspeakable tragedy. The episode also examines our role in uplifting community in times of hardship.

Behind the scenes in Ciro’s studio

In our 2nd episode of GP360, we chat with GRAMMY-nominated artist Ciro Hurtado, one of the first artists to ever grace the Grand Performances stage some 40 years ago. We talk to Ciro about his Peruvian origins, LA’s music scene in the ‘80’s, marching to the beat of his own drum and what continues to inspire him.

This podcast has been a year in the making, so we’re beyond thrilled to release these conversations into the world, for your listening pleasure. We just ask that you come with an open mind to leave with a deeper understanding of who we are and why what we do matters more than ever. The first two episodes are out now with additional episode dropping monthly. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube or Amazon.