Monster Mash: Martin Luther King Memorial stirs debate about Mall

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.

Historic figure: The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial assumes its place on the National Mall, renewing the debate over how many monuments should be permitted there. (Los Angeles Times)

Preservation effort: A new study argues that street art by Banksy ought to be given better protection. (BBC News)

Tearjerker: ‘Ghost: The Musical’ is scheduled to open on Broadway in April. (Los Angeles Times)

End of the line: The classical-music critic of the Toronto Star said he has been re-assigned to the paper’s business desk. (Toronto Star)

Dancing about candy: The 2000 movie ‘Chocolat’ is being adapted for the stage as a ballet. (BBC News)

Familiar face: Artist Ultra Violet, the muse of Salvador Dali and a friend of Andy Warhol, has unveiled a new work inspired by the Sept. 11 attacks. (New York Daily News)

Cutting back: The union representing Lyric Opera of Chicago’s principal singers, dancers and other staff has agreed to a 5% pay reduction. (Chicago Sun-Times)

Back for more: Sahr Ngaujah, who originated the lead role in Broadway’s ‘Fela!,’ will star in the national tour of the musical. (Broadway World)

Report card: A critical assessment of Des McAnuff’s tenure at the Stratford Shakespeare Festival. (Toronto Star)

Romantic interest: An interview with Jennifer Damiano, who plays Mary Jane in ‘Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark.’ (Playbill)

Inspiring: A disabled man who cannot speak uses art to communicate. (Chicago Tribune)

Same time next year: The annual Broadway on Broadway concert has been canceled for 2011 due to the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks. (Broadway.com)

Also in the L.A. Times: A profile of the jazz band Ninety Miles, performing on a Cuban-themed program this week at the Hollywood Bowl.

-- David Ng