Malibu Seen: Wild Things

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Pictured, from left: Gary E. Knell, president and CEO of the National Geographic Society, Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association President Connie Morgan, Los Angeles Zoo Director John Lewis and keeper Francisco Moran slither into party mode with an LA Zoo woma python.

Animal loving rockers like Malibu’s Slash made for a roaring good time at the annual Beastly Ball, held on the lush grounds of the LA Zoo. Gussied up guests turned out in their safari best. They got into the spirit, sporting camouflage and khakis, pith helmets, combat boots and exotic animal prints. 

Decked out safari trams shuttled herds of fur-loving fans to the upper tiers where they were treated to a cornucopia of LA’s best eats — from French fare to Mexican spice, tasty Moroccan morsels and more. In short, there was no stopping these party animals.

Along the way, they paused to meet some of the zoo’s local inhabitants; from pythons of all sizes to cute little hedgehogs, it was the perfect way to meet the critters and their keepers. 

Just like being out in the bush, there was a wealth of animal knowledge to be learned along the way. 

Frogs, believe it or not, are in short supply, as are pollinators like bees, which can save life on earth. Some species of turtle can outlive your great-great-grandmother. 

Like the Discovery Ball at the California Science Center, I’ll call this one of the most innovative ‘dos and venues of the year mixing education and instruction along with cocktails and canapés.

After a lesson in wildlife 101 and a taste of flavors from the world over, the evening got even wilder with a special private performance by Slash.

The LA Zoo’s 50th anniversary featured a performance by the legendary guitarist and noted wildlife advocate in an exclusive live concert, joined by special guests Jack Black, Grace Potter and Bernard Fowler, backed by Jimmy Vivino and The Basic Cable Band noted for his appearances on the “Conan O’Brien Show.” 

Like the San Diego Zoo down south, the LA Zoo not only showcases these precious and endangered species but is a leader in education and conservation. 

The furry fling raised nearly $3 million for creatures big and small and, as any tiger would tell you, that’s a figure that’s

g-r-r-r-eat!

 

NEW ROLE FOR PB

He may not be taking his drinks shaken not stirred, but former 007 Bond man and longtime Malibu resident Pierce Brosnan has a new role to play. It’s a new venture for the actor who stars as Texas cattle baron Eli McCullough in “The Son.”

Brosnan fans can rejoice taking in his first series role since “Remington Steel,” back in the days where head banging was all the rage.

So dust off your 10-gallon hat, Stetson boots and bolo ties and get ready to hunker down for a good old Western yarn. Yee-haw!