Some may have noticed a familiar face on television when Luka Van Herksen appeared on Law and Order: SVU last night. Luka was born in Mozambique and lived across the world before moving to Montgomery County- first to Bethesda and later Clarksburg.
Last night he had a role in TV’s longest running primetime drama, Law & Order: SVU, where he played a young teen who was questioned for his involvement in a spree of hate crimes that occurred in the city. The episode was introducing one the NYPD’s new unit, Hate Crimes, which is also the newest spinoff of the Law & Order series. Luka said he enjoyed his time on set and thought highly of his co-star, Ice-T, who would talk to Luka during breaks and give him tips.
Below you’ll see a couple screen captures of Luka’s appearance on the show, courtesy of MCPS teacher Grace Lovelace Guishard.
We spoke with Luka’s mom, Melissa Vigues Van Herksen, who is an MCPS substitute and told us more about Luka’s MoCo history. The Van Herksens bought a house in Clarksburg after they resigned as diplomats, and Luka spent 5th grade in the area and all of middle school at Rocky Hill Middle School. Luka credits his middle school choir teacher at Rocky Hill, Mr. Paul Heinemann, for being extremely supportive and helping him grow.
While in Montgomery County, Luka got involved with Young Artists of America, a group that operates out of Strathmore in North Bethesda. Luka says he got his passion and inspiration from YAA, which trains young performing artists in collaboration with leading, professional artists to present fully-orchestrated productions at state-of-the-art venues including their home stage at the Music Center at Strathmore.
Last year, Luka was the only child Toby’s Dinner Theater’s production of Elf the Musical in neighboring Howard County. Luka and his family recently moved to Frederick County, where he is enrolled at Linganore High School.
Luka has gone to New York a few times to film PSAs and commercials for grocery store chain, ShopRite. He is hoping for more episodic work like his role in SVU in the future. We wish him the best of luck!
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FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
