“I just met a girl named Maria” kept ringing in my ears, when I had the opportunity to meet Carol Lawrence, who created the role of Maria, in the Broadway classic, West Side Story in 1957. Time seems to have stood still for the energetic beauty, who defines the term, Triple Threat. After all, she is an actress, singer & dancer of the first magnitude.
Carol was joined by other talented thespians at the 28th Gypsy Awards, which benefits the Professional Dancers Society, an affiliate of the Actors Fund. Their purpose is to provide Funds to assist dancers in need. Mitzi Gaynor (South Pacific) is President of the Board of Directors & philanthropist Joni Berry, who supports this organization- as well as SHARE –are to be congratulated for another exciting afternoon.
Mitzi Gaynor, Carol Lawrence, Joni Berry at Gypsy Awards
In addition to Carol, three of the dance world’s finest choreographers, Alan Johnson, Miriam Nelson and Walter Painter were honored, Some of the dancers these legends have worked with include Shirley MacLaine, Tommy Tune, Chita Rivera and of course Ann Margaret, who was a presenter at the event.
Kudos to Producer Lee Hale, who presented a collage of videos, featuring clips of the most dazzling dancers of all time: the Carousel Dance Company, who performed a Tribute to West Side Story; and the gorgeous “Gypsies” who have enriched our lives with their talent & creativity.
Actresses Ann Margaret & Carol Lawrence at Gypsy Awards
Speaking of outstanding dancers, more than 2,500 fifth grade students from LA County achieved the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest ribbon dance! The extravaganza held on the Music Center Plaza, was presented by the Blue Ribbon Women’s Group & highlighted the 45th annual Children’s Festival. More than 16,000 students attended. They are California’s longest continuing arts education program, focusing on the importance of the arts for students
Keep Wed. May 6th open for a Sensational Spring Sale at the Avalon Hotel in Beverly Hills. You will find great prices on “one of a kind” items from a collection of unique, couture, costume & fine jewelry, plus vintage handbags. This is one event you will not want to miss. For further info, please call Karen at 310-890-8086. You might even find a selection of my personal jewelry, which I have worn to all those celeb events in the past! Hope to see you there on the Hollywood Beat.
Stephen Maitlaind-Lewis & Wife, Joni Berry at Gypsy Awarads
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