Pasadena Playhouse to Host 100th Birthday Celebration for Patricia Morison

The Pasadena Playhouse (Artistic Director Sheldon Epps and Executive Director Elizabeth Doran) presents A CONVERSATION WITH PATRICIA MORISON, a 100th Birthday Celebration, on Sunday, March 15, 2015. This special event, honoring Broadway legend Patricia Morison (the original star of KISS ME, KATE) four days before her 100th birthday, takes place from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at The University Club of Pasadena at 175 North Oakland Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91101.

Ms. Morison will be joined by Director/Producer John Bowab for a unique conversation about her distinguished career in theatre and film, and her experiences working on Broadway with such luminaries as Cole Porter, Yul Brynner and Helen Hayes. Guests will also have the opportunity to ask Ms. Morison questions. Following the conversation, Ms. Morison will perform two musical numbers, accompanied by Tom Griep. The event will conclude with a special meet-and-greet with Ms. Morison.

Sheldon Epps, Artistic Director of The Pasadena Playhouse, said "Our recent production of KISS ME, KATE was truly rendered all the more special by the presence of the original "Kate," Patricia Morison, at Opening Night. Ms. Morison's career spans the breadth of Broadway's Golden Age. I am thrilled and honored to welcome her once again to The Playhouse as we celebrate her Centennial. I look forward to hearing her wonderful stories - and hopefully a few songs as well!"

Patricia Morison (born March 19, 1915) created the role of Lilli/Kate in the original Broadway production of KISS ME, KATE in 1948, opposite Alfred Drake. She made her Broadway debut in 1933 and followed KISS ME, KATE by starring on Broadway and on the road in THE KING AND I opposite Yul Brynner (including the first-ever Los Angeles production in 1954). Ms. Morison was present this past September at the Opening Night of The Pasadena Playhouse's KISS ME, KATE, starring Wayne Brady and Merle Dandridge and directed by Sheldon Epps.

Tickets for A CONVERSATION WITH PATRICIA MORISON are $100 in honor of Ms. Morison's 100th Birthday. Each ticket purchased will support theatrical artistry at The Pasadena Playhouse and are available at PasadenaPlayhouse.org or by calling the Box Office at 626.356-7529. Tickets may also be purchased by check, payable to: The Pasadena Playhouse, 600 Playhouse Alley, Suite 300, Pasadena, CA 91101.

Photo by Lana Huckabee

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