BRINGING DOWN THE HOUSE
The action’s been nonstop at the Esquire House this season with suave “Entourage” star Adrian Grenier joining locals such as Giada Di Laurentiis and Minnie Driver checking out the sleek, sweet retreat. The 9,000-square-foot luxury pad nestled in the Hollywood Hills has been hosting a string of glitzy fundraisers beginning with Sienna Miller pitching in to benefit the International Medical Corps. The “Factory Girl” star was joined by Hollywood regulars like Jude Law, William H. Macy, John Legend and Robin Wright.
A few weeks later Grenier showed off his musical skills jamming with Jeff Goldblum for a crowd of fans that included Jennifer Love Hewitt, Nicolette Sheridan and Sam Trammell. They all made a splash for the Oceana organization, which works to protect and restore the deep blue sea.
Up next, the celebrated $18.9 million crib turned up the heat for Oxfam with Marcia Cross and Kristin Davis joining in the fun. Oxfam helps fight hunger and poverty in 120 countries worldwide. One of the evening’s main attractions was an intriguing photo exhibit called “From Congo with Love.”
Every year, Esquire House opens its doors to a variety of good causes and over the years has raised more than $7.5 million.
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS
The season will be merry and bright with a host of local appearances, entertainment and events. On Friday, Debby Boone and John Davidson share “An Evening of Christmas Memories” along with a 14-piece orchestra at Pepperdine University. There will be visits from Santa at the Malibu Colony Plaza on Dec. 18 and 19. Santa will also be busy at the Malibu Country Mart, which promises a winter wonderland complete with hot cider and roasted chestnuts. The city and Malibu Kiwanis Club host the annual Breakfast With Santa at Point Dume Marine Science Elementary School on Dec. 18.
Down the road apiece, the Pacific Festival Ballet brings its version of “The Nutcracker” to the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza. It’s festive and feel good at Santa Monica Place where shoppers and diners are supporting local schools. Over at the Music Center, the Los Angeles Opera board chairman, local Marc Stern, has been celebrating the production of “Rigoletto.” Marc presided over an opening night cast fete with words of praise for General Director Placido Domingo and Music Director James Conlon. The two-mega talents have renewed their contracts and will delight audiences for many performances to come. The 2010 opera calendar ends on a high note with “Rigoletto” running through Dec. 18. So whether it’s singing, snow or St. Nick, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer to carry us until next year.