Dizzy Feet Foundation, founded by Nigel Lythgoe (“American Idol,” “So You Think You Can Dance”) and director Adam Shankman (“Hairspray,” “Rock of Ages”) presented their sixth Annual Celebration of Dance. Derek and Julianne Hough (“Dancing With The Stars”) received the Inspiration Award; and dancing legend, Mitzi Gaynor received her award from Paula Abdul. Adorable Mitzi has sung and danced her way through countless movie musicals including “Les Girls,” “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” and, of course, her star performance as Nurse Nellie in “South Pacific.” The 85-year-old actress, who also is president of the Professional Dancer’s Society, had a recent accident and was in a wheel chair, but her personality and effervescence was still intact.
Sir Matthew Bourne received the Gene Kelly Legacy Award from Kelly’s widow, Patricia Ward Kelly. Patricia, noted as a writer and producer, is trustee of Gene’s estate and has presented “An Evening with Mrs. Gene Kelly” throughout the world.
Performers that evening included Maddie Ziegler, Travis Wall, and American Ballet Theater’s Marcelo Gomes and Aaron Scott. All proceeds benefitted the Dizzy Feet Foundation, whose mission is to support dance education programs to children in low-income areas.
The recently-departed producer Gary Marshall and his family were honored at the eighth Annual Burbank International Film Festival. A special award was created in his honor, which will be presented every year. Kate French was lauded as Best Actress for “Last Man Club” (which also was honored as best drama feature), and Marcos Taylor was named Best Actor for his role in “Paying Mr. McGetty.”
I could not resist this photo taken a few years ago with Gary Marshall and Placido Domingo, who I saw last night at the Gala Opening of the Los Angeles Opera.
Still overwhelmed by his performance in Macbeth. But more on that in my Social City News column next week
Meanwhile keep October 19 open for the John Wayne Cancer Institute Auxiliary Luncheon at the Beverly Wilshire. This year’s honorees are Sheri Roseblum and Jason Jeraids, who are both hard working members of the organization. The 33-year-old auxiliary, created in the “Dukes’” name, is supported by his dedicated family, and has raised over $19 million in an effort to defeat this dreaded disease. For ticket info contact Amanda Flores at 562.221.8772.
