‘Grey Gardens’ Guests Delight Donors

Ritchie began by making a few remarks about Center Theatre Group’s 50th Anniversary before launching into questions about the production.

Buckley, York, and Wilson discussed how the production began at the Bay Street Theater in the Hamptons last summer, not far from Grey Gardens. They had a chance to visit the property, where they learned that Sally Quinn, the current owner, bought the ramshackle house for $200,000 and transformed it into a home that is now worth $27 million.

When Wilson accepted the offer to direct Grey Gardens, he immediately envisioned Buckley staring as Big Edie, he told the audience. Buckley, however, had something else in mind. In a hilarious and uncomfortable phone call, she mistakenly assumed he was asking her to play Little Edie. After that was resolved, months of consideration followed—with Buckley ultimately accepting the part, much to audiences’ delight.

Ritchie concluded the conversation by asking how Center Theatre Group’s audiences compare to other audiences around the country. Wilson joked that some audience members leave a little early so they can get to their cars and beat traffic. Nonetheless, Buckley, York, and Wilson all agreed that Los Angeles has an incredible sophistication and enthusiasm for theatre.

Overall, the evening was a success. “It went well,” said host James Goren. “Perfect weather, perfect people—all theatre lovers.”

Show Comments