The festivities began last week with a lavish two-day gala affair. Guests got in their opera best with dinner on the stage followed by a spectacular production of “Don Carlo.” Malibu Opera lovers like Mark Stern couldn’t be more thrilled about the new season.
“I love it,” he shouted on the way to give his opening remarks. What’s more, he is adding another prestigious award to his long list of accomplishments.
He will receive the Dorothy and Lillian Gish prize for his work in the arts, given to those who “made an outstanding contribution to the beauty of the world and to mankind’s enjoyment and understanding of life.” The Dude also received high marks on his tireless efforts to bring music education to young people from underserved communities.
The Gish Prize also comes with a cash award of $250,000. It will be given out at a special arts ceremony that takes place at Lincoln Center in New York.
Previous winners include Bob Dylan, Peter Sellers, Spike Lee and Disney Hall mastermind Frank Gehry.
GEFFEN’S IMPRESSIVE LINE UP
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f you are up for a curtain call, there are lots of pickings at the Geffen Playhouse. The Audrey Skirball Kenis Theater is even offering a special multipackage deal. On Nov. 5, check out two one-act plays—“Hughie” and “Krapp’s Last Tape.” What theater lover could say no to Eugene O’Neill and Samuel Beckett? It is directed by Steven Roman, features two-time Tony Award winner Brian Denney and runs through Dec. 16.
For a change of pace, you’ll find the world premiere of “Black Super Hero Magic Mama.” Mama opens in 2019 and runs from March 5 until April 14.
It is directed by Robert O’Hara and features Kimberly Herbert Gregory.
The season wraps up on a high note with the world premiere of “Invisible Tango.” I.T. comes with some pretty high profile people. It is directed by Frank Marshall, who brought us “Jurassic World,” “Indiana Jones,” “Goonies” and “Back to the Future.” So break out your Sunday best and enjoy!