According to Merriam-Webster, “Surreal” may be the best way to sum up the year in review. From “tweets” to “deplorables” to “selfies,” it had the good the bad and the ugly. Who knows what tomorrow has in the mix? So, before we venture ahead, here are some memorable moments from two-oh-one-six.
THERE’S SOMETHING IN THE ARIA
Malibu’s Los Angeles Opera kingpin Marc Stern was proud to announce the lineup for the 2016-17 season. An updated version of “Macbeth” by Verdi starring Placido Domingo and Philip Glass’ “Akhnaten” were the highlights.
Mark said, “I can’t wait to see what the next 30 years have in store for us.” He also thanked all the members on board, adding the repertory and artist roster for the company’s 2016-17 season was created by Mr. Domingo in collaboration with Music Director James Conlon and President and CEO Christopher Koelsch.
HITTING A HIGH NOTE
Malibu music fans hit the streets of downtown Los Angeles enjoying the exciting new season at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion and Walt Disney Concert Hall. In keeping with tradition, the Los Angeles Philharmonic pulled out all the stops for the 2016-17 season.
Opening night at Walt Disney Concert hall drew an impressive local crowd with Dame Julie Andrews, music fan Ginny Mancini, Los Angeles Opera supporters Marc and Eva Stern and Eli and Edye Broad making up the community contingent.
They were joined by Philharmonic President and CEO Deborah Borda, Creative Chair John Adams and jazz leader Herbie Handcock as well as superstars in the world of arts, architecture and industry including Frank Gehry, Oscar winner Hilary Swank, award winning director Alejandro G. Iñárritu, Michael Eisner and Kate Burton.
There were vintage cars, sparkly flappers, Malibu opera fans and an evening of magic. It was all part of the Los Angeles Opera’s grand opening night. The Gatsby era came to life on the Music Center Plaza when LAO launched the city’s social season with the Opera Ball, in a sold-out gala celebration.
TRUE GARY
Actor Gary Sinise is a familiar face in Malibu and proved the perfect pick as this year’s top honoree at the 30th annual Odyssey Ball. The John Wayne Cancer Institute gave Gary its “True Grit” Humanitarian Award in memory of Hollywood’s ten-gallon hat hero. Maggie DiNome, who serves as director of the cancer prevention program and chief of general surgery at Providence Saint John’s Health Center, was presented with “The Duke” Special Service Award.
Gussied-up guests dressed for the occasion and were done up tip to toe as they arrived at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel.
SEALED WITH A KISS
Better believe it, they’re gonna rock and roll all night and party every day. Yep, it was time for the annual Race to Erase MS Gala on April 15, where the iconic rock band Kiss gave a shout out to help raise big bucks for a totally awesome cause and one totally awesome lady. For the past 23 years, Nancy Davis and a lot of her pals from Malibu to Manhattan have collected a whopping $46 million to help make multiple sclerosis a thing of the past.
Kiss joined Race to Erase MS founder Davis to salute 2016 “Medal of Hope” Award recipient Carolyn Rafaelian for all her hard work and inspirational leadership.
It’s an event that incorporates tributes, gourmet meals and weaves old school music with a serious message not lost on anyone.
“If you have your health, it’s easy to take it for granted, but for all those who need us, need us to care, contribute, make a difference, here is your opportunity with the 23rd Annual Race to Erase MS Gala,” said Kiss rocker Gene Simmons. “Kiss is honored to perform this year but it’s going to be even better when we come back to play the “We Kicked MS’ Ass Party!”
Though the social year is made of bits of gold and green, let’s see what’s next for 2017.