The Universal Studios marquee on Lankershim greeted guests on March 18, 2006. Arriving and entering Universal Studios through a private gate, awardees proceeded to the Globe Theatre via a red carpet lined with press.
The interior of the Globe Theatre was decorated to enhance the theme of the event, which was Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, and a salute to historic Hollywood child actors. A façade of the theatre, a 200 foot Hollywood backdrop, red velvet tablecloths, sparkling centerpieces, flashing ice cubes and a 30 foot dessert table filled the room. The buffet consisted of kid-friendly hamburgers, chicken, trip-tip and all the fixings. A video montage of the awardees , accompanied by music, played throughout the arrival and dining.
Paula Dorn and Anne Henry started off the event with a welcome and a hearty congratulations to this year’s awardees. Emcee for the event was Justin Shenkarow, former child actor and current National Chairman of the Screen Actor’s Guild Young Performers Committee. Justin was assisted by trophy girl, Miss Marilyn Monroe, appearing courtesy of Universal Studios.
Awardees were announced and presented their trophies in several groups throughout the event. Several sponsors in attendance were introduced – among them Todd Nelson and Donna Hurst from the AFTRA-SAG Credit Union, Gary Marsh from Breakdown Services, Christina and Brian from Holdon Log and Lisa Picotte, acting teacher.
Special CARE Awardee was the legendary Academy Award winning Margaret O’Brien who spoke to the kids about her experiences and shared her words of wisdom. Margaret was presented with a special CARE 2006 award on behalf of everyone in attendance.
Other special awards were given for creative fortune cookie slogans (which were actually placed in fortune cookies placed on the table),and favorite essays – both of which were a part of the application process.
Entertainment was provided by the Chinese Lion Dancers from the Shaolin Temple. Chinese Lion dancers are traditionally used to celebrate and bring good fortune to an event. Essay winner Shailene Woodley presented the lion with the gift of an orange, and the lions proceeded to spread ‘cheer’ throughout the crowd.
Universal duffle gift bags were given to the awardees – filled with gifts from many sponsors such as Popcornopolis, Jillians, Breakdown Services, Hollywood Entertainment Museum, Macy Gray Music Academy. A balloon drop and a group photo signaled the end of the awards event and guests then had the opportunity to go into Universal Studios Theme Park for the remainder of the day.
