BACKSTAGE PASS
She’s delighted audiences for decades in famous family flicks like “The Sound of Music,” “Mary Poppins” and “The Princess Diaries,” but the incomparable Julie Andrews actually got her start on stage. It was her theater connection that drew accolades and applause at the Geffen Playhouse, which honored the actress at this year’s Backstage at the Geffen fundraiser. Andrews was a vision of understated elegance in her classic navy blue suit as she joined locals like Ginny Mancini for an intimate evening of theater, dance and song.
Andrews made her debut on Broadway when she was just 19 and has always had a love of all things theater. “It’s a way to bring the community together,” she says. “The stage is a mirror in which we can see humanity and ourselves reflected.”
After a lively cocktail reception, guests took their seats to hear inspiring, passionate and often hilarious behind-the-scenes stories from the performers who bring the theater to life. Geffen regulars include many Malibu names such as Dick Van Dyke, Tom Hanks, Rita Wilson, Ray Romano and Ted Danson.
Andrews received the Distinction in Theater Award for her enduring commitment to the arts. Hanks marveled at Andrews’ range saying, “she was able to transfer unforgettable Broadway chops into unforgettable motion pictures.”
The high-powered talent agency CAA was presented with the Distinction in Service Award for the its ongoing support of the playhouse.
Every year, the Backstage event raises funds for the Geffen’s outreach programs like “Stage for Any Age,” bringing live theater to 24,000 children and kids at heart. Andrews described the Geffen as “a gem,” saying, “It’s really a special theater because they do new works, they have a wonderful program for children of communities throughout Los Angeles and the elderly too. It means they can come to a theater. Even if they’ve never seen a play before, the Geffen makes it possible.”
The Geffen’s 2010-2011 season has been a treat for theater buffs across the board. It is currently hosting two productions. “Extraordinary Measures” made its world premiere last month and tells the tale of an American telecom executive and his adventures in Cambodia. His business ventures begin to unravel with unexpected political consequences. The play was written by David Weiner and is directed by Pam MacKinnon.
“Superior Donuts” is a heartwarming tale of unlikely friendships in a diverse Chicago neighborhood. It was written by Tony and Pulitzer award-winner Tracy Letts and is directed by Randall Arney. Don’t miss the curtain call!