This is the Shrine Auditorium where tonight’s show will be held. If the name sounds familiar, that’s because ten (10) Academy Award ceremonies were held here – the most recent one being 2001 before they made the big move to the Dolby (Formerly Kodak) Theatre. Knowing that the likes of Russell Crowe, Julia Roberts, Angelina Jolie, Kate Winslet, and Hilary Swank once set foot in this 86-year-old structure already makes me star-struck.
While taking a break from the set-up, the caretaker took me and Ms. Georgette on a quick tour of the basement (or shall we say, it’s own version of the Walk of Fame) where I learned more about the venue’s impressive and extensive pedigree. Displayed along the basement’s hallowed corridors are posters of events that were held here.
The Oscars were held here in the following years: 1947, 1948, 1988, 1989, 1991, 1995, 1997, 1998, 2000 and 2001. Best Picture awardees that were honored here include: The Best Years of Our Lives, Dances with Wolves, Forrest Gump, Titanic, Gladiator and A Beautiful Mind.
Apart from the Oscars, the Shrine also hosted music’s biggest night 16 times. Among the most famous Grammy winners for Album of the Year honored in this venue were Michael Jackson‘s Thriller and Alanis Morissette‘s Jagged Little Pill.
There’s a story behind this blank space. This spot used to be occupied by a Michael Jackson concert poster. It was stolen by a random fan when the King of Pop passed away in 2009.
Now, this is interesting. I didn’t know Megastar Sharon Cuneta also performed here. Come to think of it, it shouldn’t really be surprising given California’s huge Filipino population.
In a few hours, this historic venue will once again be a monumental part of an Filipino entertainment milestone. Because tonight Willie Revillame will hold his first U.S. show as a Kapatid in celebration of TV5’s grand North American launch here in this auditorium.
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Planet Chuckie 