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September 30, 2010

TONY CURTIS: A Film Life in 60 Seconds (Video)

"Service to others is the rent we pay for our time on this planet." -Tony Curtis (1925-2010)

September 28, 2010

SEP 28: Jason Alexander Stars in "They're Playing Our Song", Debut Production of Reprise 2010-2011 Season at UCLA Freud Playhouse

Posted by Don Rose
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September 28 - October 10, 2010 - Freud Playhouse at UCLA       

Reprise Theatre Company opens their season with the Tony Nominated Best Musical

THEY’RE PLAYING OUR SONG. Featuring a book by Neil Simon, this audience favorite follows the on-again, off-again romance of one very despondent composer and one very ditzy lyricist, as they try to create their own unique love song. Based on the real-life love affair of composer Marvin Hamlisch and lyricist Carole Bayer-Sager (who also penned the delicious score), this whirling dervish of a musical comedy will have you humming its songs between each and every laugh.


SUMMARY:

“They’re Playing Our Song” is the opening production of Reprise Theatre Company’s 2010-2011 season. 

Preview performance on Sep. 28, 2010, opening night Sep. 29. Show runs two weeks only.

Stars Jason Alexander, Artistic Director of Reprise Theatre Company, and Stephanie J. Block, Broadway star of “9 to 5: The Musical,” “Wicked,” “The Pirate Queen,” and “The Boy From Oz” 

Book by Neil Simon 
Music by Marvin Hamlisch 
Lyrics by Carole Bayer Sager 
Directed by Lonny Price

Subscribers always get the very best seats -- go here for details

LOCATION

Freud Playhouse
245 E. Charles E Young Drive
UCLA Campus, Westwood CA


SEP 29: Writers Boot Camp Business Breakfast At Bergamot Presents Amy Schiffman

Posted by Don Rose
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Writers Boot Camp Business Breakfast
Amy Schiffman, IPG
Moderated by WBC founder Jeffrey Gordon
Wednesday, September 29, 7:45-9:45am


From the WBC webpage: "The Business Breakfast presents to our community the people who truly know the business.  Join us every other Wednesday at our Bergamot Station headquarters to network and to learn where the work is in the entertainment industry.

The breakfast consists of eggs, potatoes, pastries, fresh fruit, juice & coffee. At 8:30am, [WBC] founder Jeffrey Gordon will introduce our guest speaker(s) for a brief interview and Q&A about their particular expertise, emphasizing professional trends, new opportunities and emerging markets.
 
Doors open at 7:45 am. Advance tickets are $20 for the public, including breakfast. Tickets at the door when available are $25. For all Writers Boot Camp current writers, alumni and their guests, tickets are $10.  Free parking is available in the main Bergamot Station lot, entrance on Michigan (see directions below)."

Reserve your seat today.  For more information, call the office at 310/998-1199.

Directions to 2525 Michigan Ave, Santa Monica CA 90404:
From Cloverfield Blvd go east on Michigan
(Michigan Ave is just north of the 10 freeway, running parallel)
Go to the end of the street to the Bergamot Station entrance.
Park inside the lot and walk to the SW corner, Bldg i.


September 27, 2010

SEP 27: Mel Brooks In Conversation At Geffen Playhouse; One Night Only Event Benefits The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

Posted by Don Rose
_________________

Film and stage legend Mel Brooks will lend his comic genius and storied career to a good cause for a one night only event to benefit The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS).  Brooks will be joined by BBC Creative Director Alan Yentob, a longtime friend of the comedian, who will moderate the discussion. The two men have been close friends ever since Yentob made a documentary for the old BBC Arena programme "I thought I was taller – a short history of Mel Brooks."

The event, which takes place at the Geffen Playhouse, will be hosted by literary agent and friend of Mr. Brooks, Ed Victor, and producer/speaker agent Dan Savage of Greater Talent Network. Victor is a leukemia survivor and says he owes his life to modern research into the disease.
Ed Victor said: "My cousin died of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) after having treatment for it for 30 years – and now I am battling the disease too. It is so important to raise awareness of the huge advances that have been made in the treatment of CLL and other forms of leukemia and lymphoma and I'm very grateful to Mel and Alan for helping us to do that."

The evening, which takes place on Monday, September 27, 2010, at 7:30pm, will combine a conversation with Mr. Yentob, questions from the audience and film clips from Mr. Brooks' life's work, which includes classic comedies such as Blazing Saddles, The History of the World Part One and Young Frankenstein, as well as the television favorite Get Smart.

The show, which is presented by Amgen Oncology, will be held at the Geffen Playhouse. Ticket prices range from $100 to $250 for a VIP package that includes an intimate champagne and dessert reception with Mr. Brooks.  To purchase tickets or to get more information, please visit www.lls.org/los/MelBrooks or call 310.846.4709.  All proceeds from the evening go to benefit The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

EVENT SUMMARY:

A Conversation with Mel Brooks
Benefiting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
Monday, September 27, 2010
7:30pm
Geffen Playhouse
10886 Le Conte Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90024 (Westwood Village)

About The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society ® (LLS) is the world's largest voluntary health agency dedicated to blood cancer. The LLS mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world and provides free information and support services.  Founded in 1949 and headquartered in White Plains, NY, LLS has chapters throughout the United States and Canada. To learn more, visit www.LLS.org or contact the Information Resource Center at (800) 955-4572, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET.

September 24, 2010

SEP 26: Vicino House, Extraordinary $6mil Sustainable Home, To Host Fundraiser to Benefit Amanda Foundation

Posted by Don Rose - Featured Event
_______________________________

THE VICINO HOUSE - LUXURY LIFESTYLE & SUSTAINABLE LIVING AT ITS BEST - GIVES BACK BY HOSTING SERIES OF FUNDRAISERS TO RAISE AWARENESS FOR WORTHY CAUSES


September 26, 2010 is the date. The place: The Vicino House -- a sustainable, luxury home in Pacific Palisades overlooking the Santa Monica Bay. From 4-8PM, this amazing residence will host a fundraiser benefiting the Amanda Foundation Dog and Cat Rescue. Developer and owner Mike Gottlieb has not only taken green to a whole new level with this property, but he's going to be opening his brand new home to give back through a variety of events and fundraisers to raise awareness for worthy causes. By hosting such events, the Vicino House is not only raising money for important organizations but also offering an educational, rewarding and environmentally friendly atmosphere for all attendees where they can learn about and see first hand the green building practices used in the home.


The Amanda Foundation was founded in 1976 and has since placed thousands of homeless animals. It is a nonprofit organization that rescues abandoned dogs and cats who, through no fault of their own, are at risk of spending their last days at City and County Shelters. Mike has three rescue dogs of his own and is a long-time committed supporter of animal rescue groups.


After nearly four years of planning, design and construction, the Vicino House is one of the most spectacular green homes completed in Southern California. Mike worked with an incredibly talented team, which includes Tim McCarthy of Forma Design Group, Carl Thibault of Thibault Construction, and Kelby Bryant of Kelby Bryant Designs to bring the Vicino home to life.


Guests of the Vicino House will be treated to food, drinks, entertainment and a breathtaking view as well as an opportunity to check out all the eco-friendly companies and products that will be present. At this event, the Vicino House will feature products from: Nuvision (LED TVs), Planika USA (eco-friendly ethanol fireplace), Royal Pedic (mattresses), Bennett Floors, Twentieth (lighting), Lighting Zone (Cirrus fans), Eureka, West Coast Grass Distributors (cutting-edge synthetic turf), Chilewich, Newman’s Own Natural Foods, Every Man Jack, Dustin Otterbach Fine Art, Christopher Leomruno Photography and more. Additional sponsors to help you to wine, dine and shop for a cause include: Patron Tequila & Ultimate Vodka, AZIAM yoga wear, OM Dawg T’s and tanks, Paul Mitchell Pet Care, Café Rivva, Magnolia Bakery, Susie Cakes, and Zenergy Power Balls and more.


For further information on the highlighted LEED features, events, and other inquiries, please visit or contact Diamond Girl Media, ofc 310-207-1477 / cell 310-503-4940 or stacy@diamondgirlmediala.com.


For more info on the Vicino House, visit www.vicinohouse.com.


SUMMARY:

THE VICINO HOUSE FUNDRAISING EVENT

in support of the Amanda Foundation

September 26, 2010 ... 4pm-8pm

17876 Vicino Way, Pacific Palisades

An evening of entertainment, cocktails, hors d'oeuvres,

silent auction, raffle prizes and more at a magnificent, luxury LEED

Platinum home - the ultimate in green living in Pacific Palisades!

$40 in advance / $50 at the door

www.amandafoundation.org

or call 310-278-2935


SEP 25: American Wine & Food Festival Returns to Universal; Guests Will Enjoy Superb Food, Wine, Music, Dancing While Supporting Meals On Wheels

By Don Rose - Featured Weekend Event

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The 28th American Wine & Food Festival Takes Place September 25, 2010 on the World Famous Universal Studios Backlot, Supporting Meals On Wheels Programs of Los Angeles; 2700+ Guests Expected for Annual Extravaganza

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The American Wine and Food Festival (AWFF), one of LA's most treasured annual events, returns this weekend to its annual home with ticket holders anticipating another extraordinary evening under the stars for a great cause. One of America’s premier culinary events, AWFF will once again feature many of the world's top chefs and leading wine and spirit purveyors on the beautifully lighted backlot of Universal Studios. On the evening of September 25, 2010, a pantheon of food and beverage stars will exercise their considerable talents for the enjoyment of over 2,700 food and wine enthusiasts. The opportunity to sample exceptional dishes prepared by an internationally acclaimed group of chefs will be accompanied by live music, dancing, and a silent auction.

Festival attendees will taste some of the most exciting, unique and distinctive flavors found anywhere, complemented by the finest wines and spirits. The environment is electric, and the backlot is the perfect setting as the sun sets on Universal's sets and you meet fellow foodies and wine aficionados having the time of your life. This is hands down the best LA food and wine event each year. Don't miss it!

Those who attend this Los Angeles tradition will raise a celebratory glass in support of the Meals On Wheels Programs of Los Angeles. Since its inception in 1982, this Puck-Lazaroff Charitable Foundation event has raised more than $15 million for the Meals On Wheels Programs of Los Angeles, which serve thousands of meals each day to Los Angeles’ homebound, senior and disabled citizens.

You are cordially invited to join fellow Angelenos in support of a great cause and a most memorable evening.

For more information, see below and visit the official AWFF website at http://www.awff.org.


Saturday Evening American Wine & Food Festival
September 25 2010, 5-11 PM
*5:00 PM Wolfgang Puck VIP Cooking Demonstration
*VIP entrance available only with Festival Patron packages.
6:00 PM Festival Opens

Location: Universal Studios Backlot
3900 Lankersheim Blvd, Gate 3, Universal City, CA

Staged against the backdrop of movie sets, the signature Saturday night event returns, once again, to Universal Studios Backlot. As dusk falls, a spectacularly lit movie set provides the stage for a culinary scene like none other: An unrivaled epicurean feast prepared by world-renowned chefs, superb libations including fine wines and smooth spirits, and a silent auction filled with luxury items - all set to the sounds of live bands. Cap the night off in “Sherry Yard’s Sweet Sanctuary Champagne and Port Lounge” – an after-hours retreat. Kick back in cozy niches under the stars or dance the night away to a live band.

Tickets to this event are $300. For details and cost for VIP tickets, please call Joan Wrede at (310) 574-3663.


AUCTION

Bidding on the following ‘Spotlight’ Travel Experiences begins at the Saturday, September 25th Festival and will conclude at the Chefs Grand Tasting Dinner, Sunday, September 26th at Spago Beverly Hills.

For more detailed information on auction items or to arrange for bidding by proxy, please contact Patti Obermiller at pjobermiller@aol.com.

DIRECTIONS

The Festival will be held on the backlot of Universal Studios
3900 Lankershim Boulevard, Universal City, CA 91608

From LAX/Westside Area
- Take 405-N to 101-S
- Exit at Lankershim Blvd.
- Right on Cahuenga Blvd.
- Right on Lankershim Blvd. (N)
- Right into Gate 3

From Pasadena Area
- Take 134-W
- Exit at Cahuenga Blvd.
- Left on Cahuenga Blvd.
- Left on Lankershim Blvd.
- Left into Gate 3

From LA/Hollywood Area
- Take 101-N (Hollywood)
- Exit at Lankershim Blvd.
- Right on Lankershim Blvd.
- Right into Gate 3

From Valencia/Ventura Area
- Take 5-S to 170-S
- Take 170-S toward Hollywood to 101-S
- Exit at Lankershim Blvd.
- Right on Cahuenga Blvd.
- Right on Lankershim Blvd. (N)
- Right into Gate 3

From Orange County Area
- Take 5-N
- Follow signs for 101 Hollywood Fwy. when approaching downtown.
- Stay on Hollywood 101-N (towards Ventura)
- Exit at Lankershim Blvd.
- Right on Lankershim Blvd.
- Right into Gate 3

Leave the driving to Integrated Transportation Services, the official limousine sponsor of the American Wine & Food Festival. For special Festival rates please call 800-487-4255.


September 10, 2010

Final Email from Westwood's CREST Theatre Before Takeover by Major Theatre Chain Sep 17

Majestic Crest Theatre wrote:

Dear Patrons,

It has been a great pleasure bringing movies to you in this beautiful historic theatre the past eight years. Owning the Crest has been a once in a lifetime experience that I will always cherish. We are currently showing EAT, PRAY, LOVE which will run now through September 16th.

Daily show times are: 1:15, 4:15, 7:30 and 10:30.

On September 17th a major theatre chain will take over the reigns of the theatre. They will keep showing movies on the big screen and I sincerely hope you will continue to patronize the Crest. As you know the single screen theatre is becoming an endangered species and these theatres need your support. Your attendance will help to ensure that the Crest lives on well into the future.

I would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your support and to the many patrons who e-mailed their best wishes and kind words since we announced the sale.

Sincerely,
Robert

Majestic Crest Theatre
1262 Westwood Blvd.
Los Angeles, California 90024



September 3, 2010

VIDEO: Dick Van Dyke, Leslie Bixler & Chad Smith, Live at Rhythm Train Party

Posted by
Don Rose
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In honor of the September 2nd appearance of singer/songwriter Leslie Bixler and legend Dick Van Dyke (aka D.V.D.) at Borders Westwood, here is a lively YouTube video shot at a party for their Rhythm Train CD, which also features Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith (who bears an uncanny resemblance to Will Ferrell). The video below features D.V.D. singing "The Pirate Song" as well as a great bonus -- a song from The Wizard of Oz! Also featured: more fun music from Bixler and Smith and their band - and a lot of cute kids!