The 50th anniversary of Marilyn Monroe’s untimely death is Aug. 5th 2012. A little known fact is that the former Norma Jeane Baker, soon to become Marilyn Monroe, attended 6th grade from 1937-1938 at Lankershim Elementary School directly behind the then famous movie palace “El Portal Theatre†, where she often attended matinees with her guardian. The new “Monroe Forum Theatre†has been outfitted with a lipstick red love seat and collector’s items of seldom seen black and white photos of Ms. Monroe. A lovely ribbon cutting ceremony took place attended by many celebrities and a few former friends of Marilyn.
After that was an amazing “one woman show†performance of “Marilyn Forever Blonde!†starring Sunny Thompson. Guests included Don Murray (Oscar Nominated for his role in Bus S
top opposite Marilyn Monroe), Stanley Rubin- Producer of “River Of No Return†, Renee Taylor- friend of Marilyn’s who took acting classes with her, legendary stage and film actor Theodore Bikel, Councilman Tom La Bonge, and Joe Razo- Principal of Lankershim Elementary School which is still there!
The ceremony and reception were followed by an amazing and moving performance of the show starring Sunny Thompson which featured an in-depth view of Marilyn’s life and feelings.The show has played in many cities around the country, all to glowing reviews! The show was Written by husband Greg Thompson and directed by Stephanie Shine. The entire celebration was arranged by the owners of the El Portal Theatre and Pegge Forrest Associates.
