The Gene Siskel Film Center will once again hosts its annual Oscar viewing party — “Hollywood on State: Where You’re the Star” — on Sunday, March 4.
This star-studded extravaganza, sponsored by Southwest Airlines, BMO Harris Bank, and The Richard and Ellen Sandor Family Foundation, gives participants an opportunity to watch the 90th Academy Awards show, live via telecast, in one of the newly renovated theaters as well as walk the red carpet while photogs capture the moment.
B96’s Showbiz Shelly and J Niice will be the red carpet commentators describing not only the glitzy formal dresses and black ties, but also the “Vintage Loungewear!” (Think Carole Lombard, Betty Grable, or Greta Garbo).
The addition to the typical black tie attire was an attempt to make sure those who would rather stay home in their pajamas to watch the night’s proceedings could still attend in their chosen wardrobe.
The red carpet hosts will be greeting guests and making their own predictions of who will be taking home that little gold statue for the night.
Patrons will also compete in predicting the winners and a grand prize given to whomever guesses most accurately. Commercial breaks are loaded with fun too as guests have a chance to win one of numerous raffle prizes. Guests will take home their own “swag bag” and have an opportunity to participate in a silent auction filled with film-related paraphernalia.
Chicago’s celebrity filmmakers are honored each year at the gala. This year the honorees include Windy City Times publisher and executive editor Tracy Baim, Producer Nicole Bernardi-Reis (“Radical Grace”), Director Kelly Richmond Pope (“All the Queen’s Horses”) and Director/Producer Dinesh Sabu (“Unbroken Glass”).
Tickets $100 for general admission to $200 for VIP’s which gives you access to the theater early (5:30 pm), a private bar, and pre-party tastings. The gala includes adult beverages and small bites from trendy Chicago restaurants throughout the event, and desserts by none other than Eli’s Cheesecake.
For ticket purchase and more information go to www.siskelfilmcenter.org.
Pamela Powell, member of the Chicago Film Critics Association, writes for numerous publications across the country including FF2 Media, Fete Lifestyle Magazine, Q Voice, and The Daily Journal. She focuses on independent film and women filmmakers, giving these groups a louder voice in the film industry.
Contact Pamela at pampowell5@att.net.
