We have never had so much fun at an Oscar party than when we were privileged to attend Roger Neal’s Oscar viewing party and black tie gala at the Hollywood Museum.
At our well-situated table, we were seated with Ed Asner, (best known as Lou Grant on the “Mary Tyler Moore Show”) Marion Ross (“Happy Days”) and other celebrities who entertained us with their antics. Asner, a political activist, shared that he intends to run for president in the next election and he and Ross teased each other the entire evening, along with Ross’ comedian/actor son, Jim Meskimen.
A special segment of the evening included the ICON awards, which were presented to Renee Taylor (“The Nanny”) Batman’s buddy Burt Ward, The Pointer Sisters and Karen Kramer, who received her award from Oscar winner Lou Gossett, Jr. Among the other presenters was the Incredible Hulk himself, Lou Ferrigno, Fran Dresher and Oscar-nominated songwriter, Carol Connors. Kudos to Donelle Dadigan (Hollywood Museum founder), underwriter, Susan Hughes and of course, my pal, PR Pro Edward Lozzi, who handled the hordes of press people with his usual aplomb.
Another event that you won’t want to miss is the upcoming Professional Dancers Society (PDS) Gypsy Awards on April 15 at the Beverly Hilton. Academy Award and Golden Globe-winning performer, George Chakiris and acclaimed dancer Barrie Chase will be the honorees. Award-winning choreographer Toni Basil will also be honored. Basil has worked with such legends as Bob Fosse and Hermes Pan, and performed with the greatest dancer of them all, Fred Astaire, in “Silk Stockings.”
This will be the PDS’ 31st anniversary luncheon, and we have attended them all. President Mitzi Gaynor, who kicked up her heels in numerous flicks, and Chairman Joni Berry, are to be congratulated on presenting the best show in town, which not only provides an afternoon of terrific Terpsichore, but also supports the Actors Fund of America.
For more information, call 310.278.5222. Hope to see you there!
