On October 6, UCSB Arts & Lectures (A&L) brought Bill Murray, Jan Vogler & Friends to the Granada Theatre for their New Worlds performance. The beloved American actor and comedian and the distinguished German cellist presented an intriguing and amusing evening of literature, song, and music. Murray was narrator and singer to the accompaniment of Vogler’s Stradivari cello, Mira Wang’s violin, and Vanessa Perez’s piano. The performance showcased the core of American values in literature and music, with plenty of light notes, including when the entire audience was singing and swaying along to Porgy and Bess’s “It Ain’t Necessarily So.”
Afterwards, Arts & Lectures Leadership Circle members ascended to the Top of the G, Dan and Meg Burnham’s exquisite 4,000 square foot penthouse, for a delightful reception with the stars. Guests mingled on three levels, including the rooftop deck with stunning 360-degree views. Chef Michael Hutchings was on hand creating decadent offerings and libations flowed freely.
A&L Director Celesta Billeci welcomed the 60 or so guests and thanked the event sponsor and venue hosts Dan and Meg Burnham, Corporate Season Sponsor Sara Miller McCune (Sage Publications), sponsors Paul Johnson and Tim Nightingale (Northern Trust) and sponsors Kirstie Steiner and John Groccia.