Some of the world’s best bodies muscled into Santa Barbara for the First Annual Ferrigno Legacy Festival that was held Nov. 28-29, benefitting Muscular Dystrophy. This historic event included a full slate of activities, non-stop entertainment, and challenges, as top athletes from around the globe competed for cash prizes.
The winners included Ronny Rockel (Germany) Pro Men’s Bodybuilding; Jamie Postill (Canada) Pro Women’s Physique; Sarah Leblanc (Louisiana) Pro Bikini; and Andre Adams (Wisconsin) Pro Men’s Physique.
Celebs and bodybuilding legends who hit the red carpet included the entire Ferrigno clan, Hercules himself, Kevin Sorbo, Tai Urban (“Shameless”), Shawn Ray (Mr. Olympia) and Scott Engrotti (“Sons of Anarchy”) to name a few. This excellent event was produced by Lou Ferrigno and Chris Minnes at the Granada Theatre that recently had a $52 million renovation. Bravo to Santa Monica’s Ferrigno who is a inspirational superhero of fitness and bodybuilding and a heck of a nice guy to boot!
“Backstage at the Geffen” celebrating their 20th anniversary, will take place on March 22, and the honorees this year are Mellody Hobson and George Lucas, and Sir Elton John and David Furnish. These two powerful couples are noted not only for their entertainment accomplishments – but for their philanthropic contributions.
Filmmaker George Lucas (“Star Wars”, “Indiana Jones”) and his wife, Mellody Hobson, support such causes as the USC School of Cinematic Arts, The Film Foundation, and after school programs for needy children.
As for Sir Elton (Candle in the Wind, Rocket Man, Lion King to name a few), The Elton John Aids Foundation has raised more than $300 million for HIV prevention and treatment. For ticket information, call 310.208.6500, ext. 112.
Another event of interest takes place at the Ahmanson Theatre, Jan 24 to March 15, when Dame Edna’s presents her “Glorious Goodbye –The Farewell Tour.”
The Dazzling Dame, who won a Tony Award for her Broadway show, is one of the most beloved stars of the world, and she also is supportive of many charities.
Did you know that she is founder of Friends of the Prostrate, and creator of the World Prostate Olympics? We saw her last show in L.A. and salute her razor-sharp brilliance. For further information, visit the official “Farewell Tour” website at www.dameednafarewell.com. Hope to see you there!
