Sheryl Lee Ralph of ‘Dreamgirls’ opens Ebell season
SHERYL LEE RALPH on stage with members of the Ebell Board: Aretha Green, Laurie Schechter, (Ralph), Phyllis Hansen, President Patty Lombard, Madelyn Murray.
The Ebell of Los Angeles launched its new programming season in style with the debut of a one-woman show, “Journey to Center Stage,” by actress Sheryl Lee Ralph, (Tony Award-nominated for her starring role in the original Broadway production of “Dreamgirls”).
Nearly 100 Ebell members and guests gathered for coffee and pastries in the Wilshire Ebell Theatre’s courtyard before entering the historic venue for an anecdote-filled musical tour of the career of the actress, singer, writer and activist. Ralph, an Ebell Club member herself, moved the crowd with her tale of grit, determination and pluck.
This was the club’s first foray back to live, in-person programming, and members were enthusiastic about the performance as well as the camaraderie.
“It’s such a friendly, welcoming atmosphere everyone has created,” states Windsor Square resident June Bilgore. “It was heartwarming with a fabulous program as well. Sheryl Lee Ralph was so inspirational.”
Gramercy Park resident Judy Reidel agrees. “Sheryl Lee Ralph was an extraordinary treat. I loved her work, her performance and her writing to put it together.”
Mindful of coronavirus protocols, ticket holders were required to preregister proof of vaccination, and the 1,200-seat theater provided ample space for socially distanced seating. The program was also live-streamed over Zoom.
Using a hybrid live / zoom model — or setting programs in the spacious garden — is planned for many of the Ebell’s upcoming programs so those with differing comfort levels can still participate.
Category: Entertainment
