Long Beach to Honor Gene Kelly's Legacy With Three Upcoming Events

Dancer, choreographer, actor, singer, and film director...Gene Kelly has done it all, leaving the world with a legacy of great performances. Now, three Long Beach events will pay tribute to the American icon. The tribute begins with a three-week run of the Broadway stage spectacle "Singin' in the Rain," presented live on stage by Musical Theatre West, July 10-26. On Monday, July 13, 7pm at the Art Theatre, audiences can enjoy on the big screen a special film presentation of "An American in Paris" with a live introduction and Q&A with Patricia Ward Kelly. The widow of Gene Kelly has dedicated her life to preserving her late husband's legacy, serving as his biographer and as an internationally recognized film historian. Finally, Kelly returns to Long Beach on Sunday, November 22, 2pm for a special afternoon retrospect "Gene Kelly: The Legacy with Patricia Ward Kelly" at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center.

Eugene Curran "Gene" Kelly transformed the Hollywood musical into a whole new realm. From his iconic dancing duet with Jerry the Mouse in "Anchors Aweigh" (1945) to the romance and breathtaking ballet of in "An American in Paris" (1951), and his signature swing on a lamppost in "Singin' in the Rain" (1952), Kelly created musical memories that are now recognized as timeless. For his accomplishments, Kelly received an Honorary Academy Award for his career achievements; was knighted Chevalier of the Legion of Honor; earned the Cecil B. DeMille Award; and Lifetime Achievement Awards from the Kennedy Center Honors, the American Film Institute(AFI), and the Screen Actors Guild. In 1999, AFI ranked Kelly 15th in its list of "Greatest Male Stars of All Time."

July 10 through July 26, Musical Theatre West presents the Broadway stage production of "Singin' in the Rain" at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center. Based on what is recognized as the "Greatest Movie Musical of All Time" by the American Film Institute, the stage version of "Singin' in the Rain" is faithfully and lovingly adapted by Broadway legends Betty Comden and Adolph Green with songs by Nacio Herb Brown and Arthur Freed. Brought to life is each unforgettable scene, song, and dance, including the show-stopping title number, complete with an onstage rainstorm! Audiences of all ages can sing along and relive the classic music from the iconic "Singin' in the Rain" to the footloose and fancy free "Make 'Em Laugh" and "Good Mornin'." Tickets start at only $20. For tickets, go to www.musical.org or call Musical Theatre West at (562) 856-1999 ext. 4. Limited seats are still available for the Saturday, July 11, 8pm performance which will also feature a special appearance by Patricia Ward Kelly.

On Monday, July 13, 7pm, Musical Theatre West, the Art Theatre, and the Carpenter Performing Arts Center partner to present the classic movie musical "An American in Paris," with a special introduction and Q&A with Patricia Ward Kelly. The internationally recognized biographer and film historian will offer insights on the beloved film and do a limited Q&A with the audience. Tickets are $11 and are available at the door or on line at http://72268.formovietickets.com:2235/Tickets.ASP?WCI=buyticket&Page=schedule&SelectedDate=20150713.

On Sunday, November 22, 2pm, the Carpenter Performing Arts Center presents "Gene Kelly: The Legacy with Patricia Ward Kelly." This intimate afternoon offers insight into her late husband's life in a performance that includes rare and familiar film clips, previously unreleased audio recordings, personal memorabilia, and insights culled from her hours of interviews and conversations with her husband. Tickets are on sale now at www.carpenterarts.org. Tickets are $33 through July 20, $38 afterward.

Don't miss out on these three exciting opportunities to experience the talents of Gene Kelly. Each provides its own unique perspective that true fans and new audiences shouldn't miss!