Mayor Rex Richardson, center with his back turned, and other local leaders performed a radio play during the Long Beach Playhouse’s annual “Radio Hour Fundraiser” on Friday, Jan. 31. (Photo courtesy of the Long Beach Playhouse)
Long Beach’s waterfront was the perfect setting for an evening that beautifully blended nostalgia with excitement at the Long Beach Playhouse’s “Radio Hour Fundraiser” on Friday, Jan. 31.
The show, which took place at the lovely Catalina Landing offices of Keesal, Young & Logan, transported us back into an old-time radio show. It was a delightful, folksy throwback to days gone by — laced with humor, heart and plenty of community spirit.
The radio play — written by the incomparable Harry Saltzgaver, a man whose wit and sharp sense of humor have been a staple of Long Beach life for years — was the evening’s heartbeat. (Full disclosure: The author of the radio play reviewed in this piece, Saltzgaver, was my previous editor at the Grunion Gazette and I think he’s the top!)
Saltzgaver’s writing, always engaging, captured the essence of this fundraiser — a celebration of the Long Beach Playhouse’s continued role in the city’s cultural landscape. The production was more than just a fundraiser; it was a reminder of the Playhouse’s vital place in the community, one that has thrived for more than 90 years.
Mayor Rex Richardson, second from right, and other local leaders performed a radio play during the Long Beach Playhouse’s annual “Radio Hour Fundraiser” on Friday, Jan. 31. (Photo courtesy of the Long Beach Playhouse)
Attendees were greeted with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres that complemented the delightful evening.
As the sun set over the city, the real stars of the evening took the stage: local leaders who graciously stepped into the spotlight to support a cause that has touched so many lives. Mayor Rex Richardson, state Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal and Cal State Long Beach President Jane Close Conoley were among those lending their voices to a memorable night. They, along with the ever-dynamic Mitchell Nunn as the master of ceremonies, ensured that the event was both polished and full of personality. Nunn, as always, brought his charm and energy, keeping the event lively and inviting.
Hopefully, the fundraiser not only made a significant impact but also offered a meaningful way for attendees to contribute to the Playhouse’s future. The Playhouse continues to have an integral role in Long Beach’s arts scene, supporting Mainstage and Studio productions, as well as educational programs that inspire young and adult artists alike.
The event seemed.to be a success, and the sense of camaraderie and dedication to the arts was palpable. As the evening drew to a close, it was clear that the Long Beach Playhouse’s “Radio Hour Fundraiser” is more than just a fun night out — it’s an investment in the future of our community’s cultural landscape.
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For anyone who missed it, I’d say keep your eyes peeled for next year’s date. This is an annual tradition that should be on every Long Beach calendar.