Angels Night at Century Plaza & Lladro 60th Anniversary

The ultra-modern Hyatt Regency Century Plaza Hotel was transformed into the legendary Cocoanut Grove in the old Ambassador Hotel, when a group of 1920’s Angels gathered to support the Center Theatre Group Affiliates.  Ava Fries, Chair of the event, announced that this year’s gala raised over $1 million to assist disadvantaged youth and support programs in arts education and mentoring

The Roaring 20’s themed gala featured big band music, entertainment, singers and period styled flapper dancers. Michele Lee, long time cast member of Knot’s Landing,

 

Roberta Haft (Guardian Angel) with Director Gordon Davidson at Angel Awards

Roberta Haft (Guardian Angel) with Director Gordon Davidson at Angel Awards

And the recipient of two Tony nominations for her performance in the Broadway musical Seesaw and Tale of the Allergist’s Wife, served as master of ceremonies, in the sparkling show featuring singer Tracie Bennett from End of the Rainbow, who performed music from her award-winning role as Judy Garland.

Bennett received the Distinguished Artist Award, and others lauded included Philanthropist Brindell Gottlieb, Patricia Glaser and Roberta Haft, Past President of the group, who received the prestigious Guardian Angels Award.  Some of the VIP’s in attendance included Actor Fred & Mary Willard, Maggie & Jack Simon, the still gorgeous Donna Mills, and famed Director Gordon Davidson and his lovely wife Judy.

Michele Lee, Master of Ceremonies at Angel Awards

Michele Lee, Master of Ceremonies at Angel Awards

Lladro, the world- renowned creator of the finest in porcelain art, celebrated its 60th anniversary with the unveiling of a historical exhibition of priceless pieces from the LladroMuseum in Valencia Spain, at their Beverly   Hills boutique. Rosa Lladro, company Chairman and daughter of the oldest of the three Lladro brothers, jetted in from  Spain for the occasion.  The reception benefited the Actors Fund, who assist everyone in the business…performers, those behind the scenes, and professionals in every medium –

Film, theatre, TV, music, opera, radio and dance.  For over 131 years, they have provided financial assistance, health care, housing and employment services, and have helped  more than 13,000 people directly each year.

Singer (Wicked) Shoshana Bean, Keith McNutt (Actors Fund) and Rosa Lladro at Reception

Singer (Wicked) Shoshana Bean, Keith McNutt (Actors Fund) and Rosa Lladro at Reception

Among the celebs in attendance were actor Barry Livingston, acclaimed singer and former “Wicked” Broadway star, Shoshana Bean; actress Erin Murphy, and actor Rex Smith.  Director of the Actors Fund, Keith McNutt, was pleased to announce that a portion of sales made during that evening will go to assist those in need

If you wish to see this exhibition, admission is free to the public.  The event will continue through Friday, November 15th.  For further info, please call 310-385-0690.

Tracie Bennett receiving Distinguished Artist Award from Michael Ritchie (CTG Artistic Director)

Tracie Bennett receiving Distinguished Artist Award from Michael Ritchie (CTG Artistic Director)


As a television personality, guest speaker, newspaper reporter and columnist and one of the social arbiters of Los Angeles, Marci Weiner has touched every aspect of entertainment journalism. She has appeared as guest reporter on TV shows including Joan Rivers shows, Eye on LA, and the USA Network. In addition, she has hosted her own segments on Soap Talk, Hollywood Style and Hotline after Dark. You may contact Marci for info and invitations at [email protected]

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