Some of Hollywood’s best turned out to salute legendary performer Carol Channing at the Paley Center last month. Lily Tomlin, JoAnne Worley, Carole Cook, Bruce Vilanch joined a panel discussion including TONY-winning director/producer/filmaker Dori Berinstein, in Los Angeles for the premiere screening of “Carol Channing: Larger Than Life.”
The panel members, who also appeared in the critically-acclaimed documentary, gathered with fans to salute The First Lady of Musical Theatre, Carol Channing. A virtual Who’s Who of Hollywood award winners filled the theater, including composer Charles Fox, Davis Gaines, actress Ilene Graff (Mr. Belvedere), the legendary Tippi Hedren (The Birds), Michael Learned (The Waltons) and singer/performer Connie Stevens. Also attending were the irresistibly funny Rose Marie (The Dick Van Dyke Show), actor Richard Skipper, actress/singer Barbara Van Orden and co-producer B. Harlan Boll.
The legendary actress Julie Newmar said she was deeply moved by the tribute to Channing. “The film is fabulous, remarkable, (I’ve) never seen anything like it…What a queen she is. Dori (Berinstein) is remarkable to have done this wonderful film,” she said.
Singing praises of Channing and the documentary was easy for actress Ruta Lee (Seven Brides for Seven Brothers). “It was delightful and delicious, as is Carol. The film is funny, poignant, and touching…Kudos to all who had a part of bringing it to the world,” she said.
The was the second time actress Kate Linder (The Young & The Restless) saw the film, and both times were equally inspirational for her. “My strongest held belief (is) that ‘you should never give up’ in reaching life’s goals,” Linder said. “And Carol is the living embodiment of that. She has been my biggest mentor in pursuing my hopes and dreams as an actress while contributing to the lives of others.”
West Side Story actor and jewelry designer George Chakiris said referring to Carol Channing as a ‘legend’ did not do her justice. “She’s a wonderful collection of love, generosity, amazing talent, extraordinary instincts, and a personality that is beautifully unique and generous in size.”
Actress Dee Wallace (Cujo, ET: The Extraterrestrial) said the film was made for everyone to see it. “Every creative person in the world…has got to see this movie. It will remind you to reclaim the passion for your life.”
The evening’s hostess, actress/comedienne Lily Tomlin, summed it up for everyone. “The film is completely wonderful! Carol is truly loved by me and so many others,” she said.
A DVD release of “Carol Channing: Larger Than Life” is scheduled for April 2012 and promises to include bonus material not included in the theatrical release.