Actors Playhouse present world premiere of Finding Mona Lisa
Bastille Day was not the only cause for celebration on July 14. The evening also was the opening night for the world premiere production of Michael McKeever’s new play, Finding Mona Lisa.
McKeever, who comes off a successful run in New York of his play, Daniel’s Husband, was in the audience to appreciate the laughter and enjoyment of the audience who gave the talented cast (Irene Adjan, Daniel Capote, Anna Lise Jensen, Paul Louis, Chaz Mena and Tom Wahl) a standing ovation.
Because the play spans many centuries and locations as the world famous painting, Mona Lisa, was first created, the cast took on many roles and did so brilliantly under the direction of director David Arisco and his amazing crew.
Those attending opening night were treated to tasty appetizers and a delicious dinner buffet donated by Catering by Lovables and a bar provided by Bacardi before the performance. As always, there were lots of VIPs in the crowd being welcomed by Actors’ Board chair Larry Stein and executive producing director Barbara Stein, who founded this theater that will be going into its 30th year.
With the children’s theater, school outreach programs, a willingness to try new productions, and more, this is truly an amazing cultural resource for South Florida and next season’s lineup of shows is stellar. For more information, visit www.actorsplayhouse.org.
A Safe Haven for Newborns founder Nick Silverio recently flew to EWTN headquarters in Nashville to be interviewed on the At Home with Jim and Joy Show. EWTN Global Catholic Network, now entering its 35th year, is the largest religious media network in the world. Nick had a chance to share the success of A Safe Haven for Newborns with their global audience noting that they have just saved their 265th baby. Since that broadcast, Nick has since received calls from all over.
During a recent planning meeting for the upcoming A Safe Haven for Newborns Gala on Oct. 21, Nick received a call from someone in Hawaii who wanted information after seeing that show and the calls continue coming in as this organization spreads its programs to numerous other states.
Rotary Clubs from around the world mourn the loss of Rotary International president-elect Sam F. Owori who died unexpectedly on July 13 due to complications from surgery. Sam was a member of the Rotary Club Kampala, Uganda, for 38 years.
Sam, who many local Rotarians heard speak at the recent RI Convention in Atlanta, was the CEO of the Institute of Corporate Governance of Uganda, whose mission is to promote excellence in corporate governance principles and practice in the region by 2020. Previously, he was executive director of the African Development Bank and managing director of Uganda Commercial Bank Ltd., and director of Uganda Development Bank. He also has served as corporation secretary of the Central Bank of Uganda.
Speaking of Rotary, June and July were busy for all the clubs installing new officers all over town with lots of fun after hours and receptions as well. The Rotary Club of South Miami held an after hours on July 19 at Titanic Brewery. Coral Gables Rotarians installed new officers at Hyatt Regency Coral Gables on June 31 where they will now be meeting for lunch on the first, second and third Thursdays of the month and alternating breakfasts and after hour meeting on the fourth Thursday.
The installation was a lovely affair with drinks and some great hors d’oeuvres that served as dinner for many.
The installation was officiated by former District 6990 Governor Marcy Ullom who installed president, John Porro; president-elect, Susan Fornaris; vice president, Sally Baumgartner; secretary, Bill Martinez; treasurer, Debbie Swain, and board members. Plans are underway for the coming year with a Chili Cook Off.
Season’s 52 offers great place for happy hour parties and recently this writer used a gift certificate from a charity auction the restaurant donated to celebrate two birthdays. Coral Gables Woman’s Club president Debi Van Stone Moore and gala chair Arely Ruiz both celebrated belated birthdays with several friends on July 10. Season 52’s Fernando Orms and Ana Fernandez shared in the fun as well and were most gracious hosts for the evening.
Until next time, keep making each day count.
