Can you believe it?-!! It's The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Science this Sunday, February 22. As a kid, I was mesmerized as I watched the production of yards and yards of the most exquisite fabrics floating across the stage to accept the coveted little gold man. Gowns worn by the most beautiful....and glamorous....stars: Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, Ave Gardner, Elizabeth Taylor, Lana Turner, Betty Davis, and Natile Wood to name a few. The stages did not appear to be such a big deal in the beginning, but, after MC Bob Hope "resigned" stage did become a production for this ritual event.
This year's stage will be a "WOW" stage. Designed by David Rockwell. Among his many credits of achievements, David knows this building very well. HE designed it. "The Oscars have given Mr. Rockwell, a Hollywood outsider, who claims not to own a pair of sunglasses (I'm from New York, I squint."), the chance to reinvent the theater he designed." Color scheme this year is going to be a rich, deep blue....goodbye red, fluted chandeliers "hover above the audience to give the impression...presto-!!...of a low-ceiling nightclub." Hmmmm, David Rockwell may own a pair of sunglasses yet.
One thing is for sure, Oscar Night does give you one advantage as you watch this year's stage extravaganza unfold ...everyone is a critic.
1944 at Graumans Chinese Theater
Can you find Bob Hope in this 1953?
The 41st Academy Awards 1969
The Stage from the 2002 Academy Awards
Is that Jennifer Garner as one of the presenters in the Kodak Theater 2008?
Sunday, February 22, 2009 designed by Architect David Rockwell, NY.
Photos by The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Science and Monica Almeida, New York Times.
If you have a favorite "Kodak Moment" stage, please leave a Comment.
Talk again,
Denise & Gwen
Gwen's son, Michael, was Manager of the restaurant in The Chandler Building and oversaw all the parties during Oscar Night at this spot. Michael now is a partner in Lettuce Entertainment and works out of Las Vegas.
1 comment:
Hello, I do not agree with the previous commentator - not so simple
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