First Fridays 2025: AMPLIFIED – Experiencing Sound

First Fridays 2025: AMPLIFIED!

The 2025 First Fridays season turns the volume up on sound and music as we examine our relationship with the aural world and how it affects our bodies and our lives.  Join us as we amplify unique voices, enriching perspectives, and dynamic music in the vibrant and stimulating setting of NHM after-hours. 

May 2  |  Experiencing Sound

First Fridays returns in May with another fun and thought provoking evening.  Featuring live music from Stones Throw Records's Automatic, along with Doris Anahi,  a special multi-sensory vinyl DJ set from Wyldeflower (Inside) and a DJ set from January (Outside), our signature discussion in the new Commons Theater with DJ Kurs, Artistic Director of Deaf West Theatre, hosted by Dr. Yewande Pearse, a sound lounge featuring a special sound bath sessions from artist Doe Paoro, an art activity at the Sounds Artsy! Creative Station and Sound Exploration Talk from our Museum Educators, and more! (See below for program details.)

If you are interested in learning more about 2025 First Fridays series, click First Fridays 2025: Amplified!
 

Our Featured Discussion! 

Discussion  | Commons Theater |  6:30–7:30 pm  

Experiencing Sound:  What does it mean to be without sound? How is sound and music experienced by the deaf and hard of hearing? What are advances in assistive technology? How are museums, concerts, and other venues bringing immersive and accessible experiences to all.    
*Seating is limited. Please arrive early.

** ASL Interpretation Provided

OUR MODERATOR

Dr. Yewande Pearse is a neuroscientist turned science communicator, bridging the gap between science and culture. London-born and now Los Angeles-based, she is the founder of Nyewro, a science translation and communications company. Driven by the belief that science isn't just for scientists and has the power to connect people and communities, Nyewro's mission of "Broadening where science belongs" brings science into art galleries, music venues, and cultural institutions. She serves as an advisor to the California Science Center and is a Community Fellow at The Center for Diverse Leadership in Science at UCLA's Institute of the Environment and Sustainability.

OUR GUEST

DJ Kurs has been a driving force in redefining the possibilities of theatre since becoming Artistic Director of Deaf West Theatre in 2012. Under his visionary leadership, Deaf West has produced a series of groundbreaking and award-winning productions, including the critically acclaimed Opera with the LosAngeles Philharmonic Fidelio and the revival of Spring Awakening which he guided from an intimate 99-seat Los Angeles production to Broadway, where it captivated audiences and garnered multiple Tony Award nominations. Beyond his work on stage, Kurs is a passionate advocate and influential voice within the Deaf community.
 

We aim to make NHM an exciting, educational, and enjoyable experience for everyone. If you have any questions about your visit and the accessibility services we offer, contact our Call Center at 213.763.3466 or email info@nhm.org

Images from past First Fridays:

Live Music and DJ Set In the Nature Gardens Stage! 

Automatic  | Nature Gardens | 9 pm

Automatic is Izzy Glaudini (synths, vocals), Lola Dompé (drums, vocals) and Halle Saxon (bass, vocals).  The band first met while immersed in L.A.'s DIY music scene and started jamming together in 2017  Once they started playing out, word quickly spread about their explosive live shows and they became a mainstay on the L.A. club circuit.  After their debut album Signal was released on Stones Throw Records in 2019, they began touring internationally and opening for acts such as Bauhaus.  In 2022, they shared the stage with Tame Impala, Parquet Courts, and IDLES.  Their second album Excess is out now on Stones Throw.

Doris Anahi  | Nature Gardens | 8 pm

Doris Anahí is a first generation Los Angeles born, Southern California raised, Mexico City based Chicana singer-songwriter. Beginning her journey in music working behind the scenes, she later pivoted into her own artistry by releasing her debut EP “Aprendiendo Por Las Malas” in 2022 and her sophomore EP “Por Las Buenas,” in 2023 to critical acclaim. She is a recipient of the 2024 Latino Spirit Award for Achievement in Art & Music by the California Latino Legislative Caucus, and her hope is to be able to continue to uplift her community through music, storytelling, and advocacy. She is currently working on her debut album in Mexico, and is looking forward to sharing it with the world when the time comes. 

DJ January  | Nature Gardens | 5–8 pm

January is a Los Angeles-based visual designer, record collector, and DJ. Blending world music, disco, funk, soul, and reggae, she curates immersive experiences through her mixes and performances, crafting dynamic atmospheres and lasting impressions with her fresh, innovative style.
 

Sound Central Station with DJ and Pop-Up Experiences!

Wyldeflower | Level 1 Foyer | 5–10 pm

Wyldeflower (aka Ro) is a Pasadena-born DJ, radio host, vinyl collector and creative producer. Constantly exploring music from around the globe, with a special dedication to tropicalia, MPB, soul, funk, jazz, and genre-defying artists. Her sets are intentional, they uplift your mood and expand your mind. Catch her live for a unique experience each time, drawing from her vast collection of sounds. 

Enjoy a special multi-sensory DJ set with live ASL interpretation from 7:30 pm-8 pm and 8:30 pm-9 pm.

Pop-Ups | Level 1 Foyer | 5–10 pm

Visit with Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. and LifeSigns.  Stop by Blessed and Abundant Healing and UMAKYAT Sound & Energy Healing for sound healing information and don't forget to check out the Amoeba Music pop-up shop!  

Drag Arts Lab / Pride In Bloom Sneak Peak | Level 1 Foyer | 8-8:10 pm

Watch the magic unfold as Drag Arts Lab, Inc. teases their upcoming drag show for Pride In Bloom taking place June 8th. From dino discos and asteroid explosions to vogueing birds and arthropod eleganza, this show explores how natural history is reflected in our personal experiences. Drag Arts Lab expands and elevates the art of drag in Los Angeles County. "We believe drag inspires and transforms communities.”

Sound Lounge featuring Sound Baths and other Sound Experiences!

Doe Paoro | Level 2 North American Mammal Hall | 6 pm,  7 pm and 8 pm

*Three 30 minute micro-sessions at 6 pm, 7 pm and 8 pm.  Limited capacity.  Please come early to save a spot.  No late entries.

Doe Paoro is a singer, songwriter, and sound healer based in Costa Rica. Inspired by music's power to awaken healing, unity, and a remembering of the sacredness of all life, she offers concerts, sound baths, and voice-activation workshops worldwide. Her music has been featured in film, television and radio internationally.

Sounds Artsy! Creative Station | Otis Booth Pavilion Ground Level | 5–10 pm

Hands on art activity for the entire family! 

More Sound Knowledge to Explore!

Sound Exploration Talk | Commons Theater | 5:30 pm 

Join our knowledgeable Museum Education Specialists in a series of talks exploring Sound! 

NHM's Research and Collections | Otis Booth Pavilion Ground Level | 5–10 pm

Explore the work and collections of NHM with specially-curated displays. 

Food Trucks and Pop-Ups

Enjoy a diverse lineup of food trucks offering a range of cuisines, along with cocktail and refreshment bars. 

Featuring: The Tropic Truck, Baby's Badass Burgers, Go Beyond the Bowl, and Cakes by Chante.