Patti LuPone Performs at 'A Winter Fantasy' at La Jolla

On Saturday, December 9, La Jolla Playhouse in San Diego will host "A Winter Fantasy," a gala benefit featuring Tony Award-winning actress and singer Patti LuPone. LuPone will treat guests to a once-in-a-lifetime performance as they drink, eat and dance the night away in the fantasy landscape that will transform the Joan and Irwin Jacobs Center.

Chaired by long-time Playhouse supporter and past gala chair Debby Jacobs, the gala directly benefits The Playhouse's new play development and award-winning education programs, ensuring that The Playhouse will continue to bring adventurous work to San Diego and The National Theatre scene. 

"The evening begins at 6pm with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres in the courtyard lobby.  At 7:30pm, patrons will be ushered into the Potiker Theatre for a gourmet dinner designed by Wolfgang Puck Catering.  The entertainment begins at 8:30pm with a live auction and continues with a musical performance featuring LuPone. Then, guests can tear up the dance floor to the tunes of Zowie Bowie as the New Play Development Center is transformed into an icy blue lounge with a magical dessert and dance soirée," state La Jolla notes.

Artistic Director Des McAnuff comments, "Having Patti LuPone perform for us is an incredible honor.  Our patrons are sure to find her a real treat — one more delightful part of our night of fantasy.  Patti is, in my opinion, a National Treasure.  I am thrilled to have the opportunity to bask in her light."

LuPone has been one of Broadway's foremost leading ladies since her star-making performance in 1979's Evita, for which she won a Tony Award.  She was also recently nominated for her turn in Sweeney Todd.  The star, who graduated from Julliard and was a member of John Houseman's famed Acting Company in the '70s. Broadway credits include Noises Off, The Old Neighborhood, Master Class, Anything Goes (Tony nomination), Accidental Death of an Anarchist, Oliver!, Working, The Three Sisters, The Robber Bridegroom (Tony nomination) and The Beggar's Opera; she has also starred in Pal Joey and Can-Can at Encores! Additionally, she originated the role of Fantine in the London production of Les Miserables, starred as Norma Desmond in the 1993 West End production of Sunset Boulevard (her last appearance in a fully-staged musical), and played Genevieve in the original production of The Baker's Wife.

The dress is cocktail or winter white attire. Ticket prices range from $75 to $2500. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (858) 550-1020 x121.  Visit www.lajollaplayhouse.com for more information.