Concert, movie screening at Jack London Park
Efforts to keep Jack London State Park off the state’s hit list take center stage this weekend with two outdoor events on the grounds of London’s historic estate in Glen Ellen.
The old stone ruins of a winery, later used by London as a carriage and guest house, will be the venue for “Broadway Under the Stars” on Saturday night, October 1. The following evening the Disney movie “White Fang,” based on the story by Jack London, will be shown.
Proceeds from both events will benefit the Valley of the Moon Natural History Association, a non-profit volunteer organization that supports Jack London, Sugarloaf Ridge, and Annadel State Parks. All three are slated for closure by the state next July.
“State parks need the help, and these types of events are what our parks are all about,” said Supervising Ranger Neill Fogarty. “Producing a cultural event in such a beautiful historic setting allows more people to enjoy the park and showcases how and why our parks should be preserved for the future.”
Broadway performers from hit shows such as “42nd Street,” “Mary Poppins,” “Jersey Boys,” and “Hairspray” will perform in Saturday night’s show. “Broadway Under the Stars,” featuring music from some of Broadway’s greatest musicals as well as popular standards, is produced by Transcendence Theatre Company.
The newly formed company is hoping that this one-night event will grow into a continuous way to support Jack London State Park, said Stephan Stubbins, managing director of the troupe.
The company plans to establish residency in Sonoma Valley to build a professional regional theatre company, he said, specializing in producing Broadway musicals, concerts, and community outreach programs in an outdoor setting.
One goal is to work with California State Parks to produce a theatrical season starting in the summer of 2012. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for the concert are $25-$40, with a VIP option for $100. Contact 877.424.1414 or broadwayjacklondon.com.
On Sunday, “White Fang” will begin just after the sun sets over London’s beloved Beauty Ranch. Picnics are welcome, and there be local wines for sale, along with cold drinks and peanuts.
“Save our Park” reserved seating is $25 per person, open seating is $10 per person, and children under 12 are free. Tickets are on sale at the park museum (Thur-Mon.) and park cottage (Sat-Sun), also Readers’ Books in Sonoma. For more information or to buy tickets online, go to jacklondonpark.com.
