Carol Channing is turning 95 this year.
Hellooo, Dolly…it’s been quite a ride for the Coachella Valley resident.
A veteran of theatre, film, and television, Channing’s career contributions to the world of “showbiz” have made her an industry legend. Her signature, bright smile and charismatic persona have endeared her to millions of fans, and her many honors give tribute to her impact as a larger than life star both on and off a global stage.
• Channing has been honored with a Golden Globe Award for her portrayal of Muzzy Van Hossmere in the film, Thoroughly Modern Mille.
• She won the Tony for her famous origination of the role Dolly Gallagher Levi in the Broadway hit, Hello, Dolly!
• She was inducted into the American Theatre Hall of Fame in 1981 and received the 1995 Lifetime Achievement Tony Award.
What better way to celebrate the amazing Channing than to throw her a very special birthday bash. Top names in theatre, film, and television such as Lucie Arnaz, Alan Cumming, Florence Henderson, Cloris Leachman, Gavin MacLeod, and Lily Tomlin are scheduled to appear March 5 as the McCallum Theatre brings together an incredible ensemble to say “Happy Birthday”!
Palm Springs Life captured some of Channing’s reflections on her experiences as one of America’s most beloved luminaries.
Looking back on your career, what would you say would be your fondest memory?
“I cant recall any one moment as being my fondest, but rather a series of remarkable moments that inevitably involved individuals, both on stage or in the audience, that have made each experience a unique memory all its own, and adding consecutively to one long very blessed life.”
What would you say has been the biggest change in stage production and artistry over the past 50 years?
A“I wouldn't know where to start. I began my Broadway career 76 years ago and over the years I've seen an evolution in theatrical productions, that we never would have dreamed possible when Dolly took her first steps on the boards a little more than 50 years ago. We thought that having a train on stage during Hello Dolly! was an amazing theatrical experience at the time … and maybe it still is because they are bringing Jerry's (Herman) production back to Broadway for yet another generation to enjoy.”
What advice would you give young artists who wish to pursue a career in musical theatre?
“If you love what you do, pursue it with all your heart. Investigate every connection to your chosen profession. Find out about lighting, editing, sound, make-up … I never did let anyone else do mine … Oh, just everything connected to what you want to accomplish. Understanding what is going on around you will enhance your work.”
Carol Channing's 95th Birthday!, a sold-out, one night only tribute concert on March 5 presented by the McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, 760-340-2787; www.mccallumtheatre.com
Like what you're reading? Then "Like" us on Facebook and "follow" us on Twitter.