The evening featured an in-depth conversation with Douglas, who reflected on his iconic career, from producing *One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest* to starring in legendary films like *Wall Street*, *Fatal Attraction*, and *Basic Instinct*. Douglas's candid anecdotes about his experiences in Hollywood captivated the audience, providing a rare glimpse into the life of one of cinema's most enduring stars.
"This is a night I'll never forget," Douglas said during the ceremony. "To be recognized by a theater as historic and beloved as the Avon means the world to me. The arts are the heart of a community, and places like the Avon keep that spirit alive."
Sir Howard Stringer, former president of CBS News, former President and Chairman of the Board of the Sony Corporation Worldwide, and Honorary Chair of the American Film Institute, presented the award to Douglas. The evening also included congratulatory videos from President William Jefferson Clinton, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Paul Rudd, and Academy Award-winning director Steven Soderbergh. The Yale Alley Cats, violinist Charles Yang, pianist Peter Dugan, and Tony-nominated actress Valisia LeKae provided musical performances. The evening was produced and emceed by Terre Blair Hamlisch, a personal long-time friend of Michael Douglas and widow of esteemed award-winning composer Marvin Hamlisch.
The gala, a fundraising event, significantly bolstered the Avon Theatre's mission of bringing world-class films and programming to the Stamford community. Funds from the event will support the theater's educational initiatives, maintain its historic facilities, and continue to showcase an array of independent, documentary, and classic films.
"The success of this evening demonstrates the profound impact of the arts in our community," said Peter Gistelinck, executive director of the Avon Theatre. "We are deeply grateful to Michael Douglas and our supporters for making this an unforgettable night."
The event also includes an online auction to raise additional funds to support the theater, which will continue through October 31st. More information can be found at www.avontheatre.org.
Presenting sponsors for the Lifetime Achievement Award Gala were Bloomberg Philanthropies, The First Bank of Greenwich, and Kathy & Peter Sachs.
The Avon is currently embarking on a capital campaign to reinvent the Avon by elevating it to 21st-century comfort and technology standards. These proposed improvements will maintain the theater's unique decor and enhance its original charm by making it larger, more accessible, and equipped to offer even more engaging programming.
The Avon Theatre - Deborah & Chuck Royce Cinema Arts Center is a member-supported, nonprofit, independent cinema committed to showcasing a curated selection of independent, foreign, classic, and documentary films. Nestled in the heart of downtown Stamford, CT, the Avon has stood as a cultural beacon for almost 85 years, enriching the community through unforgettable experiences that promote dialogue and inspire an appreciation for the art of cinema. Through its special programming, educational initiatives, and community engagement efforts, the Avon strives to create a dynamic space where film enthusiasts of all ages can come together to explore, discover, and celebrate the magic of the silver screen.
For more information about the Avon, including upcoming screenings, membership opportunities, and special events, please visit www.avontheatre.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
