Museum explores life's diversity

The Natural History Museum at 900 Exposition Blvd. in Los Angeles will stay open late for its First Fridays series on "The Diversity of Life," featuring public forums, film and live performances inspired by biodiversities in the natural and cultural worlds.

Each themed evening will feature a curator-guided tour through one of the museum's galleries, a moderator-led forum with thinkers, scientists, environmentalists and authors, followed by live performances by musicians and DJs.

Events are scheduled for Feb. 2, March 2, April 6, May 4 and June 1.

"First Fridays at the Natural History Museum is really environmental culture in the making," said Vanda Vitali, the museum's vice president of public programs.

"Our upcoming First Fridays events directly engage the community, featuring live, audienceled debates that encourage visitors to contribute questions and concerns to the discussion. Guests can continue the debate afterwards in our In/ter/act space or experience performances by provocative artists from a variety of musical disciplines," said Vitali.

Standard museum admission fees apply to First Friday programs. Tickets will be available at the door on the day of the event on a first come, first served basis. Fees range from $2 for children to $9 for adults. No fees are charged for children under 5, museum members and USC students with ID.

For updated program information, visit www.nhm.org/ firstfridays.

For 24hour museum information, call (213) 763-DINO or visit www.nhm.org.