FIT FOR A PHARAOH
After what seemed like enough time to raise the pyramids or build Tut’s tomb, “Aida” finally made its way to Los Angeles. For local music lovers, Giuseppe Verdi’s operatic extravaganza was well worth the wait. It has been called one of the best productions ever for the Los Angeles Opera with breathtaking sets, graceful staging and stellar performances.
The black-tie bash that followed was equally spectacular with a little help from co-chairs Carol Henry and Alyce Williamson. The Performing Arts Center Plaza was transformed into Egypt’s Valley of the Kings and provided a perfect backdrop for the Nile-style celebration. The well-clad guests graced a red carpet lined with palm trees and were greeted by the sight of sphinxes, mummies and sarcophagi. After a gourmet feast, several rounds of champagne and a few turns on the dance floor they sauntered home with the melody of “Aida’s” triumphal march fresh in their minds.
A REEL HONOR
Malibu’s Marcy Carsey was feted by Women in Film at the 2000 Lucy Awards Luncheon at the Beverly Hilton. Every year, WIF honors industry professionals for excellence. Marcy had an impressive rise to the top. She started out as an NBC page and production assistant for “The Tonight Show,” went on to become a story editor and then a top exec at ABC-TV.
Over the years, she helped create classic comedies and dramas like “Taxi,” “Mork & Mindy” and “Dynasty.” Marcy is in good company, joining Barbara Walters, Angela Lansbury, Norman Lear and Gary Marshall who received Lucy Awards for their many career accomplishments. Marcy’s most recent role was playing host to a flock of friends at Brad and Jennifer’s Malibu beach wedding bash.
CUTTING LOOSE WITH BRUCE
Bruce Willis was having himself a grand old time at this year’s American Cinematheque Moving Pictures Ball. The Die Hard hero was the man of the hour as family, friends and fans gathered to celebrate his sixth sense for show biz success. The highlight of the evening, as always, was a light-hearted look back at the big guy’s wide range of roles (both forgettable and unforgettable) from “Moonlighting” to “Look Who’s Talking” to “Pulp Fiction.” The tribute will be broadcast on Turner Network Television on Sept. 27.
WOMEN ON TOP
As long as praise is being passed around, don’t forget Sherry Lansing. The Paramount Pictures Group exec will be lauded at this year’s Noel Foundation awards dinner on Oct. 14. Other honorees include Eunice Kennedy Shriver and Dharma Master Chen Yen. Malibu’s Olivia Newton-John, fresh from the Olympics, will serve as the event’s chairwoman.