Wednesday, February 27, 2013

WILL FERRELL TO BE HONORED WITH INAUGURAL “COMEDIC GENIUS AWARD” AT THE “2013 MTV MOVIE AWARDS”

“The 2013 MTV Movie Awards Nominations Spectacular” to Reveal Full List of Nominees LIVE on Tuesday, March 5 at 7:58 P.M. ET on MTV and MTV.com

 

Rebel Wilson Hosts the 22nd Annual “2013 MTV Movie Awards” LIVE on Sunday, April 14 at 9:00 P.M. ET/PT on MTV

New York, NY (February 27, 2013) – MTV today announced that Will Ferrell will be honored at the “2013 MTV Movie Awards” with the first-ever “Comedic Genius Award” for his incomparable contributions to the world of comedy, including his on-screen portrayals of some of pop culture’s greatest characters. Plus, he is just that funny. The accolade was created to honor an actor who has not only provided a major influence through their work but also transformed the genre. From his seven-year tenure on “Saturday Night Live” to playing Ron Burgundy in “Anchorman” to the title character in “Elf” and Frank the Tank in “Old School,” Ferrell’s comedic chops are nothing short of genius. Ferrell will join rising superstar and host Rebel Wilson at the show when it airs LIVE on Sunday, April 14 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT from the Sony Pictures Studios Lot in Culver City, CA.

“Will Ferrell epitomizes what it means to be a comedic genius and it’s only fitting that he should be the inaugural recipient of this award,” said Stephen Friedman, President of MTV. “Over the course of his extraordinary, 17-plus-year career, he has entertained audiences across the globe with an impressive array of laugh-out-loud performances on air, online and in films. Simply put, Will Ferrell is ‘kind of a big deal’.”

Additionally, for the first time this year’s full list of nominations will be announced during the “2013 MTV Movie Awards Nominations Spectacular” featuring a live on-air and online event on Tuesday, March 5. Kicking off on MTV at 7:58 p.m. ET, MTV News’ Josh Horowitz will be joined by host Rebel Wilson, to announce the “Movie of the Year” nominees before heading online to MTV.com for a 30-minute live stream. During the online reveal, Horowitz will be joined live in the studio by Jenni “JWOWW” Farley of MTV’s “Snooki & JWOWW,” along with a cast of MTV characters to help reveal all nominees for returning fan-favorite awards such as “Best Kiss” and “Best Fight,” as well as all-new categories including “Best Shirtless Performance” and “Best Musical Moment,” including the cast of “Teen Wolf,” Molly Tarlov and Jessica Lu of “Awkward,” Nev Schulman and Max Joseph of “Catfish: The TV Show,” Nikki Glaser and Sara Schaefer of “Nikki & Sara Live,” Vinny Guadagnino and his family of upcoming “The Show with Vinny” and more. Voting will begin immediately after at MovieAwards.MTV.com.

Beginning his career as a member of The Groundlings improv group in Los Angeles, Ferrell was invited to audition for “Saturday Night Live’s” executive producer Lorne Michaels. In 1995 he joined the cast and has since become recognized for some of the show’s most memorable impersonations including Chicago Cubs announcer Harry Caray, singer Robert Goulet, “Jeopardy” host Alex Trebek and U.S. Vice President Al Gore. Following his departure, Ferrell went on to create and star in a long line of comedy blockbusters from the past ten years including “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby,” “Step Brothers,” and the animated feature hit “Megamind.” Additionally, in 2007 Ferrell launched the user-generated website Funny or Die into the cultural zeitgeist which produces and features celebrity and comedian-driven video content. He has also starred in the Tony Award-nominated Broadway play “You're Welcome America. A Final Night with George W. Bush” and in 2011, was selected as the recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. Later this year, fans can look forward to Ferrell as he reprises his much-anticipated role in “Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues.”

The “2013 MTV Movie Awards” will air across MTV’s global network of more than 60 channels reaching more than a half-billion households around the world. In addition, its convergent programming and content will reach the entire interactive community, via MTV’s more than 200 digital media properties around the world. The 2012 MTV Movie Awards grew its reach +4% YOY with the coveted 12-24 demographic across key international markets, including the UK, Australia, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, Poland, Singapore and Mexico.

Jesse Ignjatovic/Den of Thieves serves as Executive Producer for the “2013 MTV Movie Awards.” Garrett English serves as Executive Producer and Executive in Charge for MTV. Amy Doyle is Executive in Charge of Music and Celebrity Talent. Joanna Bomberg is Executive in Charge of Music Talent. Wendy Plaut serves as Co-Executive Producer and Executive in Charge of Celebrity Talent. Lee Lodge serves as co-Executive Producer.

Official sponsors of the “2013 MTV Movie Awards” include HTC, DR PEPPER®, Revlon®, Taco Bell® and Unilever.

For “2013 MTV Movie Awards” press credential applications, please visit www.MTVPress.com.

About MTV:
MTV is the world’s premier youth entertainment brand. With a global reach of more than a half-billion households, MTV is the cultural home of the millennial generation, music fans and artists, and a pioneer in creating innovative programming for young people. MTV reflects and creates pop culture with its Emmy®, Grammy® and Peabody® award-winning content built around compelling storytelling, music discovery and activism across TV, online and mobile. MTV’s sibling networks MTV2 and mtvU each deliver unparalleled customized content for young males, music fans and college students, and its online hub MTV.com is a leading destination for music, news and pop culture. MTV is a unit of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB), one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. For more information, go to www.mtvpress.com.

About Den of Thieves:
Founded in 2007 by Jesse Ignjatovic and Evan Prager to create, develop and produce original television, Den of Thieves has emerged as a force for ambitious event shows and uniquely stylized reality television series. Using their extensive experience working with talent, their credits cover a vast array of formats and include VH1’s “The T.O. Show,” Comedy Central's "Russell Brand in New York City", Bravo’s “Start-Ups: Silicon Valley,” as well as the MTV Video Music Awards, CMT Country Awards and MTV Movie Awards.

Friday, February 22, 2013

MICHAEL FEINSTEIN TO PERFORM AT GOVERNORS BALL ON OSCAR® SUNDAY

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – Michael Feinstein, two-time Emmy® and five-time Grammy® Award-nominated entertainer dubbed “The Ambassador of the Great American Songbook,” will take the stage on Oscar Sunday, February 24, at the Academy's official post-Oscar ® celebration, the Governors Ball.

Feinstein is considered one of the premier interpreters of American standards. His 200-plus shows a year have included performances at Carnegie Hall, Sydney Opera House and the Hollywood Bowl as well as the White House and Buckingham Palace.

Feinstein has received national recognition for his commitment to celebrating America’s popular song and preserving its legacy for the next generation. In 2007, he founded the Michael Feinstein Great American Songbook Initiative, dedicated to celebrating the art form and preserving it through educational programs, Master Classes, and the annual High School Vocal Academy and Competition, which awards scholarships and prizes to students across the country. Through his live performances, recordings, film and television appearances, and his songwriting (in collaboration with Alan and Marilyn Bergman, Lindy Robbins and Carole Bayer Sager), Feinstein is an all-star force in American music.

Feinstein will perform for the Ball’s 1,500 guests, which will include Oscar winners and nominees, show presenters and performers, and other luminaries. The Ball will be held in The Ray Dolby Ballroom on the top level of the Hollywood & Highland Center®.

Oscars for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar® Sunday, February 24, at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane. The Oscar presentation will be televised live on the ABC Television Network and in more than 225 countries worldwide. For more information go to Oscar.com or download the official Oscars app.

JACK NICHOLSON AND DUSTIN HOFFMAN NAMED AS PRESENTERS ON OSCAR® TELECAST

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – Multiple Academy Award® winners Jack Nicholson and Dustin Hoffman will present on this year’s Oscar telecast, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today.

Nicholson has been nominated 12 times and won for his leading performances in “One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest” (1975) and ”As Good as It Gets” (1997). He also won the award for supporting actor in 1983 for “Terms of Endearment.”

Hoffman, who has been nominated seven times, won for his leading performances in “Kramer vs. Kramer” (1979) and “Rain Man” (1988). He has received critical acclaim for his feature film "Quartet," which marks his directorial debut and is currently in theaters.

“Between the two of them, Jack Nicholson and Dustin Hoffman have created more iconic characters than any other pair of actors in the world,” said Zadan and Meron. “Their participation in this year’s Oscars completes a list of presenters and performers that truly represents that great breadth and depth of acting talent in film today.”

Untitled Previously announced Oscar presenters include Jane Fonda, Jennifer Garner, Kristen Stewart, Kerry Washington, Jennifer Aniston, Michael Douglas, Jamie Foxx, Paul Rudd, Salma Hayek Pinault, Melissa McCarthy, Liam Neeson, John Travolta, Ben Affleck, Jessica Chastain, Jennifer Lawrence, Halle Berry, Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Mark Wahlberg, Ted and "Marvel's The Avengers" cast members Robert Downey Jr., Samuel L. Jackson, Chris Evans, Jeremy Renner and Mark Ruffalo; returning 2011 Oscar winners Jean Dujardin, Christopher Plummer, Octavia Spencer and Meryl Streep; "Chicago" cast members Richard Gere, Queen Latifah, Renée Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones; special guests Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Daniel Radcliffe, Channing Tatum and Charlize Theron; and performers including Kristin Chenoweth, Jennifer Hudson, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried, Eddie Redmayne, Samantha Barks, Aaron Tveit and Helena Bonham, Adele, Dame Shirley Bassey, Norah Jones and Barbra Streisand.

Oscars® for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24 at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide. For more information go to Oscar.com or download the official Oscars app.

Thursday, February 21, 2013

JANE FONDA, JENNIFER GARNER, KRISTEN STEWART AND KERRY WASHINGTON TO PRESENT ON OSCAR® TELECAST

Untitled BEVERLY HILLS, CA – Academy Award® winner Jane Fonda will join Jennifer Garner, Kristen Stewart and Kerry Washington to present on the Oscar telecast, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today.

Fonda earned seven nominations and won Academy Awards for her roles in "Klute" and "Coming Home." Garner was seen in this year's "The Odd Life of Timothy Green" and will be seen next in "Dallas Buyers Club." Stewart is best known for her role as Bella Swan in the "Twilight" saga and also starred in 2012's "On the Road" and "Snow White and the Huntsman." Washington starred in the Best Picture Nominee "Django Unchained" and was seen in "A Thousand Words." Washington is also the star of ABC's hit drama "Scandal."

Fonda, Garner, Stewart and Washington join a stellar list of previously announced Oscar presenters including Jennifer Aniston, Michael Douglas, Jamie Foxx, Paul Rudd, Salma Hayek Pinault, Melissa McCarthy, Liam Neeson, John Travolta, Ben Affleck, Jessica Chastain, Jennifer Lawrence, Halle Berry, Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Mark Wahlberg, Ted and "Marvel's The Avengers" cast members Robert Downey Jr., Samuel L. Jackson, Chris Evans, Jeremy Renner and Mark Ruffalo; returning 2011 Oscar winners Jean Dujardin, Christopher Plummer, Octavia Spencer and Meryl Streep; "Chicago" cast members Richard Gere, Queen Latifah, Renée Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones; special guests Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Daniel Radcliffe, Channing Tatum and Charlize Theron; and performers including Kristin Chenoweth, Jennifer Hudson, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried, Eddie Redmayne, Samantha Barks, Aaron Tveit and Helena Bonham,Adele, Dame Shirley Bassey, Norah Jones and Barbra Streisand.

Oscars® for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24 at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide. For more information go to Oscar.com or download the official Oscars app.

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

KRISTIN CHENOWETH AND SETH MACFARLANE PERFORM SPECIAL OSCAR® CLOSING NUMBER

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – Oscar show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today that Kristin Chenoweth and Seth MacFarlane will participate in a special show closing musical performance.

"After the Best Picture award has been given, Seth and Kristin will perform a special number and we think it will be a 'can't miss' moment," said producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron.

Chenoweth joins a stellar list of previously announced performers including Jennifer Hudson, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried, Eddie Redmayne, Samantha Barks, Aaron Tveit and Helena Bonham, Adele, Dame Shirley Bassey, Norah Jones and Barbra Streisand and presenters including Jennifer Aniston, Michael Douglas, Jamie Foxx, Paul Rudd, Salma Hayek Pinault, Melissa McCarthy, Liam Neeson, John Travolta, Ben Affleck, Jessica Chastain, Jennifer Lawrence, Halle Berry, Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Mark Wahlberg, Ted and "Marvel's The Avengers" cast members Robert Downey Jr., Samuel L. Jackson, Chris Evans, Jeremy Renner and Mark Ruffalo; returning 2011 Oscar winners Jean Dujardin, Christopher Plummer, Octavia Spencer and Meryl Streep; "Chicago" cast members Richard Gere, Queen Latifah, Renée Zellweger and Zeta-Jones; and special guests Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Daniel Radcliffe, Channing Tatum and Charlize Theron.

Untitled Oscars® for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24, at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide.

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

JENNIFER ANISTON, MICHAEL DOUGLAS, JAMIE FOXX AND PAUL RUDD TO PRESENT ON OSCAR® SUNDAY

Untitled BEVERLY HILLS, CA – Oscar-winning actors Michael Douglas and Jamie Foxx will join Jennifer Aniston and Paul Rudd as presenters on the Oscar telecast, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today.

Aniston's credits include "The Switch," "Marley and Me," "The Break-Up," "Along Came Polly," "Bruce Almighty," "The Good Girl" and "Office Space." She most recently co-starred with Rudd in "Wanderlust."

Douglas has won Oscars® for his performance as Gordon Gekko in "Wall Street" and as producer of the 1975 Best Picture winner "One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest."

Foxx, who garnered a Supporting Actor nomination for "Collateral," took home an Oscar for his title role in "Ray."

Rudd's credits include "This Is 40," "I Love You, Man," "Role Models," "Knocked Up" and "The 40-Year-Old Virgin." In March, he will be seen in "Admission."

Aniston, Douglas, Foxx and Rudd join a stellar list of previously announced Oscar presenters including Salma Hayek Pinault, Melissa McCarthy, Liam Neeson, John Travolta, Ben Affleck, Jessica Chastain, Jennifer Lawrence, Halle Berry, Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Mark Wahlberg, Ted and "Marvel's The Avengers" cast members Robert Downey Jr., Samuel L. Jackson, Chris Evans, Jeremy Renner and Mark Ruffalo; returning 2011 Oscar winners Jean Dujardin, Christopher Plummer, Octavia Spencer and Meryl Streep; "Chicago" cast members Richard Gere, Queen Latifah, Renée Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones; special guests Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Daniel Radcliffe, Channing Tatum and Charlize Theron; and performers Adele, Dame Shirley Bassey, Norah Jones and Barbra Streisand.

Oscars for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24 at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide. For more information go to Oscar.com or download the official Oscars app.

Monday, February 18, 2013

OSCAR®-NOMINATED ACTORS SALMA HAYEK PINAULT, MELISSA McCARTHY, LIAM NEESON AND JOHN TRAVOLTA NAMED AS PRESENTERS

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – Actors Salma Hayek Pinault, Melissa McCarthy, Liam Neeson and John Travolta will present on the Oscar telecast, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today.

Hayek Pinault earned an Oscar nomination for her leading performance in “Frida.” She will be seen next in “Grown Ups 2.”

The Oscars McCarthy earned a nomination for her performance in a supporting role in the 2011 hit film “Bridesmaids.” She stars in the recently released film “Identity Thief” and will be seen next in “The Heat.”

Neeson received an Oscar nomination for his leading role in Best Picture winner “Schindler’s List.” His other credits include “Taken,” “Batman Begins,” “Love Actually,” “Gangs of New York” and “Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace.”

Travolta has been nominated twice for Actor in a Leading Role for “Saturday Night Fever” and “Pulp Fiction.” His other credits include “The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3,” “Hairspray,” “Be Cool,” “Swordfish,” ‘Face/Off” and “Grease.”

Hayek Pinault, McCarthy, Neeson and Travolta join a stellar list of previously announced Oscar presenters including Ben Affleck, Jessica Chastain, Jennifer Lawrence, Halle Berry, Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Mark Wahlberg, Ted and "Marvel's The Avengers" cast members Robert Downey Jr., Samuel L. Jackson, Chris Evans, Jeremy Renner and Mark Ruffalo; returning 2011 Oscar winners Jean Dujardin, Christopher Plummer, Octavia Spencer and Meryl Streep; "Chicago" cast members Richard Gere, Queen Latifah, Renée Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones; special guests Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Daniel Radcliffe, Channing Tatum and Charlize Theron; and performers Adele, Dame Shirley Bassey, Norah Jones and Barbra Streisand.

Oscars® for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24 at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide. For more information go to Oscar.com or download the official Oscars app.

Thursday, February 14, 2013

OSCAR® NOMINEES BEN AFFLECK, JESSICA CHASTAIN AND JENNIFER LAWRENCE TO PRESENT

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – Academy Award® nominees Ben Affleck, Jessica Chastain and Jennifer Lawrence will present on the Oscar telecast, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today.

Academy Award-winner Affleck, who is nominated this year for producing the Best Picture nominee "Argo," won the award in 1997 for co-writing the Best Picture nominee "Good Will Hunting."

Chastain, who is nominated for her lead performance in the Best Picture nominee "Zero Dark Thirty," received her first nomination last year for her supporting role in the Best Picture nominee "The Help."

Lawrence, who received her first nomination in 2010 for her leading role in "Winter's Bone," is nominated for her lead performance in the Best Picture nominee "Silver Linings Playbook."

Affleck, Chastain and Lawrence join a stellar list of previously announced Oscar presenters including Halle Berry, Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Mark Wahlberg, Ted and "Marvel's The Avengers" cast members Robert Downey Jr., Samuel L. Jackson, Chris Evans, Jeremy Renner and Mark Ruffalo; returning 2011 Oscar winners Jean Dujardin, Christopher Plummer, Octavia Spencer and Meryl Streep; "Chicago" cast members Richard Gere, Queen Latifah, Renée Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones; special guests Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Daniel Radcliffe, Channing Tatum and Charlize Theron; and performers Adele, Dame Shirley Bassey, Norah Jones and Barbra Streisand.

Oscars® for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24 at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide. For more information go to Oscar.com or download the official Oscars app.

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

GLITTER ROSE “BUDA NEGRA” MUSIC VIDEO WORLD PREMIERE AT HARD ROCK CAFE HOLLYWOOD ON HOLLYWOOD BLVD.

Press Event, World Premiere and Live Music by Glitter Rose


Hollywood, CA, February 13, 2013 – The kiss of death hits Hollywood, CA on February 22, 2013 as Outlaw Southern Rocker Glitter Rose world premieres the “Buda Negra” music video at Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood on Hollywood Blvd. This will be Texas native Glitter Rose’s debut music video, featuring the bonus track from her album Dead or Alive, which she co-produced with producer and musician Dran Michael.

The “Buda Negra” music video was directed by writer, actress, and young visionary Amy Campione. Up and coming actor Jeff Torres co-stars in the video with Glitter Rose. GR is featured as the character “La Buda Negra”, showing her ability to act as well as her musicianship and musical performance. “Buda Negra” was written by Glitter Rose, telling the story of a woman who takes no mercy on her lovers, all of them becoming her victims, much like a Black Widow.

To view the Official “Buda Negra” music video teaser, please visit GR’s YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/glitterrosemusic

What: Glitter Rose’s “Buda Negra” Music Video World Premiere

When: Friday, February 22, 2013
6:30 p.m. Press Interviews / Step and Repeat Photo Ops begin
9:00 p.m. Music Video Premiere
9:30 p.m. Live Music by Glitter Rose begins

Where: Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood Boulevard
6801 Hollywood Blvd.
Hollywood, CA
323-465-7625

Admission: FREE Event, 21+ (unless accompanied by an adult)

For more information, visit www.hardrock.com .

About Glitter Rose
Glitter Rose just received 2 awards in the 2013 Artists In Music Awards for Best Rock Artist and Album of the Year for Dead or Alive, which released in Spring 2012. Her endorsements include Orange Amps, Fishman Acoustic Amplification, Telefunken Elektroakustik, Warrior Guitar, Rotosound Music Strings, BAE Audio, Moody Leather, and Guitar Hands Hand Care. She also held a 5 month residency with Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood on Hollywood Blvd. for a live music event they created around her music called Southern Rock Brunch from March-July 2012. 2013 has lots in store for GR, including a residency for the month of March at Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood on Hollywood Blvd. for their Happy Hour live music series, a Spring Oklahoma/Texas tour, followed by an East Coast run in the Fall. For more information, including links to all of GR’s social networking sites, please visit www.glitterrose.com.

About Hard Rock International
With a total of 177 venues in 58 countries, including 141 cafes, 18 hotels and 8 casinos, Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's greatest collection of music memorabilia, which is displayed at its locations around the globe. Hard Rock is also known for its collectible fashion and music-related merchandise, Hard Rock Live performance venues and an award-winning website. HRI owns the global trademark for all Hard Rock brands. The company owns, operates and franchises Cafes in iconic cities including London, New York, San Francisco, Sydney and Dubai. HRI also owns, licenses and/or manages hotel/casino properties worldwide. Destinations include the companies’ two most successful Hotel and Casino properties in Tampa and Hollywood, Fl., both owned and operated by HRI parent company The Seminole Tribe of Florida., as well as other exciting locations including Bali, Biloxi, Chicago, Cancun, Las Vegas, San Diego and Singapore. Upcoming new Hard Rock Cafe locations include San Jose. New Hard Rock Hotel projects include Aruba, Riviera Maya, Abu Dhabi and Shenzhen and Haikou in China. New Hard Rock Casino projects in development include Hungary and Northfield, OH. For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com.

BEST ACTRESS OSCAR® WINNERS – HALLE BERRY, SANDRA BULLOCK, NICOLE KIDMAN AND REESE WITHERSPOON – TO PRESENT

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – Academy Award® winners Halle Berry, Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman and Reese Witherspoon will present on the Oscar telecast, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. All four have previously won the award for Best Actress.

Berry won the award for her performance in "Monster's Ball" (2001), Bullock for "The Blind Side" (2009), Kidman for "The Hours" (2002) and Witherspoon for "Walk the Line" (2005).

Berry, Bullock, Kidman and Witherspoon join a stellar list of previously announced Oscar presenters including Mark Wahlberg, Ted and "Marvel's The Avengers" cast members Robert Downey Jr., Samuel L. Jackson, Chris Evans, Jeremy Renner and Mark Ruffalo; returning 2011 Oscar winners Jean Dujardin, Christopher Plummer, Octavia Spencer and Meryl Streep; "Chicago" cast members Richard Gere, Queen Latifah, Renée Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones; special guests Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Daniel Radcliffe, Channing Tatum and Charlize Theron; and performers Adele, Dame Shirley Bassey, Norah Jones and Barbra Streisand.
 
Oscars® for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24 at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide. For more information go to Oscar.com or download the official Oscars app.

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

SPECIAL EDITION COMMEMORATIVE POSTER CELEBRATES OSCAR® HISTORY WITH OLLY MOSS DESIGN

Original Poster on Display at Gallery1988 in Hollywood


BEVERLY HILLS, CA – In celebration of The Oscars® on February 24, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences unveiled today the newest addition to its show poster collection.

The commemorative poster was designed by English artist, graphic designer and illustrator Olly Moss in collaboration with Gallery1988.  The special edition piece features 85 Oscar statuettes, each one distinctly inspired by the Best Picture winners from 1927 to 2012.  The poster images can currently be viewed in a digital gallery at http://oscar.com/best-pictures-tribute.

Moss, a graduate of the University of Birmingham, is best known for such works as the “Thor” cast poster for Marvel Entertainment, the cover artwork for the “Resistance 3” video game, and his recent book Silhouettes from Popular Culture.  One of the most sought-after screen print artists working today, Moss has created illustrations for The New York Times and The Guardian, and is commissioned by Empire magazine to design a new movie poster illustration every month.

The commemorative poster, along with a special edition T-shirt by DabsMyla, is now available for purchase at oscars.org/posters or by calling 1-877-335-8936.

The original poster will be on display beginning February 14 as part of “For Your Consideration,” the Academy’s collaborative exhibition with Gallery1988 Melrose, at 7020 Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles.  For information about the exhibition, visit nineteeneightyeight.com or follow Gallery1988 on Twitter (@galleries1988) and Facebook (gallery1988).  Fans outside the Los Angeles area can find out about special giveaway opportunities by following the Academy on Twitter (@TheAcademy) and Facebook (TheAcademy).

Oscars for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24, at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane.  The Oscar presentation will be televised live on the ABC Television Network and in more than 225 countries worldwide.  For more information go to Oscar.com or download the official Oscars app.

2013 ACADEMY NICHOLL SCREENWRITING COMPETITION NOW UNDERWAY

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is now accepting entries for the 2013 Academy Nicholl Fellowships in Screenwriting competition.  As many as five $35,000 fellowships will be awarded in November.

The Nicholl Fellowships competition is open to any individual who has not earned a total of more than $25,000 from the sale or option of screenplays or teleplays, or received fellowships or prizes of more than $25,000 that include a "first look" clause, an option or any other quid pro quo involving the writer's work. To enter, writers must submit a completed application online, upload one PDF copy of their original screenplay in English and pay the entry fee before 11:59 p.m. PT on May 1, 2013.

Entry fee schedule is as follows:
Early deadline: March 1; entry fee US$35

Regular deadline: April 10; entry fee US$50

Final deadline: May 1; entry fee US$65

Online applications, rules and other details are available at www.oscars.org/nicholl.


Fellowships are awarded with the understanding that the recipients will each complete a new feature-length screenplay during the fellowship year. The Academy acquires no rights to the works of Nicholl fellows and does not involve itself commercially in any way with their completed scripts.


Last year's competition drew a record 7,197 entries. Since the program's inception in 1985, 128 fellowships have been awarded.


Several past Nicholl fellows have recently added to their achievements. Destin Cretton directed "Short Term 12" from his fellowship-winning screenplay; the film will premiere in competition at South by Southwest® next month. Creighton Rothenberger co-wrote "Olympus Has Fallen," slated to open in March with Gerard Butler, Aaron Eckhart, Morgan Freeman and Angela Bassett. Andrew Marlowe is the creator and executive producer of the ABC series "Castle," now in its fifth season. Rebecca Sonnenshine is the executive story editor on the CW series "The Vampire Diaries."


ABOUT THE ACADEMY
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is the world's preeminent movie-related organization, with a membership of more than 6,000 of the most accomplished men and women working in cinema. In addition to the annual Academy Awards–in which the members vote to select the nominees and winners–Academy presents a diverse year-round slate of public programs, exhibitions and events; provides financial support to a wide range of other movie-related organizations and endeavors; acts as a neutral advocate in the advancement of motion picture technology; and, through its Margaret Herrick Library and Academy Film Archive, collects, preserves, restores and provides access to movies and items related to their history. Through these and other activities the Academy serves students, historians, the entertainment industry and people everywhere who love movies.

FOLLOW THE ACADEMY
www.oscars.org
www.facebook.com/TheAcademy
www.youtube.com/Oscars
www.twitter.com/TheAcademy

Monday, February 11, 2013

HER UNIVERSE FOUNDER ASHLEY ECKSTEIN TO APPEAR AT DOCTOR WHO FAN CONVENTION, GALLIFREY ONE, AND OFFERING EXCLUSIVE DOCTOR WHO FANGIRL TEE BY RUSSELL WALKS


NEW YORK, NY - February 11, 2013 - Her Universe™ founder, and voice of Ahsoka Tano on Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Ashley Eckstein, will be appearing at the upcoming Doctor Who fan convention, Gallifrey One, the annual North American Doctor Who celebration, February 15th thru the 17th, at the Marriott Los Angeles Airport Hotel in Los Angeles, California. In addition, Eckstein will be bringing along the Her Universe booth filled with all the latest Her Universe Doctor Who fangirl apparel including an exclusive Doctor Who tee, limited to 300, featuring the art of renowned illustrator Russell Walks, only offered at the Gallifrey One 2013 convention. Eckstein will be meeting fans at the Her Universe booth and offering personal styling tips to fangirls throughout the weekend. In addition, she will be appearing on several panels and on stage for a discussion with fans.

"I am thrilled to have the opportunity to attend Gallifrey One," said Ashley Eckstein. "It's an exciting time to be a Doctor Who fan as we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of this iconic series. In honor of this special event, we are excited to be offering an exclusive design by Russell Walks! Russell and I will be at the Her Universe booth throughout the convention and we look forward to meeting fans throughout the weekend.

"I'm super-excited to be spending the weekend with Ashley and the Her Universe crew eating fish fingers & custard and talking about Doctor Who with the best fans in all of space and time," said Russell Walks. "I'm also thrilled that 'The Girl Who Waited' design on which I worked so hard will finally be available for fans who love Amelia Pond as much as I do!"

About Her Universe
Her Universe was launched in 2009 by actress and entrepreneur Ashley Eckstein, and her partner, The Araca Group, known as one of the most innovative theatrical production and merchandise companies in the world. Her Universe was created to directly address the expanding market of female fans by entering into its first agreement with Lucas Licensing to develop and produce a line of female-centered Star Wars apparel and accessories. The success of that line was followed up with a collection for the Syfy network including such shows as Battlestar Galactica and with BBC America for Doctor Who and with CBS Consumer Products for Star Trek. You can learn more about Her Universe and purchase the current line of fangirl apparel and accessories by going to www.heruniverse.com and by following Eckstein on Facebook (facebook.com/HerUniverse) and Twitter (twitter.com/HerUniverse).

About Gallifrey One 2013
The 24 Hours of Gallifrey One is in its 24th year and is the world’s largest and longest-running Doctor Who fan convention, celebrating the golden anniversary of Doctor Who this year. For more information on Gallifrey One 2013 go towww.gallifreyone.com

About Russell Walks
Although his original career goals included both becoming bionic and joining the rebellion against the Empire, Russell Walks eventually decided that his destiny lie along another path, and chose art school over adventure. Since beginning his career as a professional illustrator, Walks has created art based on licensed properties for a variety of clients, including Lucasfilm, Paramount, Warner Brothers, and Marvel. Walks is also a successful painter; his personal work has won both regional and national acclaim, and hangs in private collections throughout the world. Walks only recently discovered the "Whoniverse," and is extremely excited to be attending his first Doctor Who convention.

REUNION OF "CHICAGO" STARS – RICHARD GERE, QUEEN LATIFAH, RENÉE ZELLWEGER, AND CATHERINE ZETA-JONES – TO PRESENT ON 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FILM'S OSCAR® WIN

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – Academy Award® winner's Renée Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones will join their "Chicago" cast mates Richard Gere and Queen Latifah to present together on-stage at the Oscars®, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today.

"We are very excited to reunite the stars of 'Chicago' to present on the Oscars, on the 10th anniversary of the movie's win for Best Picture," said Craig Zadan and Neil Meron.

Zellweger, Zeta-Jones and Queen Latifah received nominations for their performances in the film. Jones and Queen Latifah were nominated for their supporting roles, Jones took home the Oscar that year. Zellweger, who was nominated for her lead performance in the film, has been nominated three times, and won in 2003 for her supporting role in "Cold Mountain."

Gere, Queen Latifah, Zellweger and Zeta-Jones join a stellar list of previously announced Oscar presenters including Mark Wahlberg, Ted, and "The Avengers" cast members Robert Downey Jr., Samuel L. Jackson, Chris Evans, Jeremy Renner and Mark Ruffalo; returning 2011 Oscar winners Jean Dujardin, Christopher Plummer, Octavia Spencer and Meryl Streep; special guests Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Daniel Radcliffe, Channing Tatum and Charlize Theron; and performers Adele, Dame Shirley Bassey, Norah Jones and Barbra Streisand.

Oscars for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24, at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide.

ABOUT CRAIG ZADAN AND NEIL MERON
Craig Zadan and Neil Meron are producers of critically acclaimed and award-winning feature films, television movies, series, and Broadway productions. Their feature films include The Bucket List, Footloose, Hairspray, and Chicago, which won six Academy Awards including one for “Best Picture.” For television, they’ve produced films of “Steel Magnolias,” ”Life with Judy Garland,” and “A Raisin in the Sun,” among many others and the series “Smash” and “Drop Dead Diva.” They recently returned to their roots in live theater by producing Broadway revivals of the Tony-winning ”Promises, Promises” and the Tony-winning 50th Anniversary revival of “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.”

SOURCE Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

Friday, February 8, 2013

WILLIAM ROSS TO CONDUCT OSCAR® ORCHESTRA

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – William Ross will conduct the Oscar orchestra for the Academy Awards®, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today.

"We are happy to have Bill Ross conduct the Oscar orchestra," said Craig Zadan and Neil Meron. "With a show so rich with music, we are so pleased to have someone as talented as Bill on our team."

Ross, who conducted for the 79th and 83rd Academy Awards®, is a prolific award-winning composer and arranger whose work encompasses feature films, television and the music recording industry. He has arranged music for artists such as Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, Josh Groban, Andrea Bocelli, Michael Buble, Kenny G., Sting, Quincy Jones, Seal, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston. The records on which he has worked have sold a total of over 250 million copies in the United States.

Ross has written original scores for such films as "The Tale of Despereaux," "Ladder 49," "Tuck Everlasting" and "My Dog Skip." He also adapted and conducted the score to "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets."

Oscars® for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24, at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide. For more information go to Oscar.com or download the official Oscars app.

ABOUT CRAIG ZADAN AND NEIL MERON
Craig Zadan and Neil Meron are producers of critically acclaimed and award-winning feature films, television movies, series, and Broadway productions. Their feature films include The Bucket List, Footloose, Hairspray, and Chicago, which won six Academy Awards including one for “Best Picture.” For television, they’ve produced films of “Steel Magnolias,” ”Life with Judy Garland,” and “A Raisin in the Sun,” among many others and the series “Smash” and “Drop Dead Diva.” They recently returned to their roots in live theater by producing Broadway revivals of the Tony-winning ”Promises, Promises” and the Tony-winning 50th Anniversary revival of “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.”

SOURCE Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

Winners of the 2nd Annual Artists In Music Awards Announced

Katie Cole, John Cassese, Glitter Rose, Beu Sisters, Melanie Taylor, “The Ground Above” Among Those Who Take Home Coveted Trophies


Winners of the Artists In Music Awards have been announced at the Key Club in West Hollywood, CA.


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (Hollywood, CA), February 7, 2013—The Artists In Music Awards (AIMA) has announced the 2013 winners in all categories at the world famous Key Club ahead of Grammys weekend.

AIMA trophies were given to some of the finest emerging music artists at the star-studded, red carpet event that included members of Quiet Riot, Patrick Kilpatrick, featured LIVE performances, and concluded with an energized after-party for the guests where the winners eagerly awaited for their trophies.  The highly publicized AIMA was executively produced by Mikey Jayy and hosted by Hollywood personality Nic Creznic and Los Angeles Music Awards founder Al Bowman.

Untitled This year’s LIVE performances at AIMA featured artists that are some of the most talented names in independent music, including Mike Ben Yami, Cheating Daylight, Haster, Ko-Lition, Leave It To Us, Travis Royce, The Controversy, and Glitter Rose. All of the performers were also nominated.

The 101 Distribution “Artist of the Year” was awarded to Katie Cole. Cole, originally from Melbourne, Australia, describes her own style of music as having flavors of Tom Petty, Sheryl Crow, Fleetwood Mac and Colbie Caillat. She calls it "Americana meets British Pop". Acclaimed Record Producer Howard Willing (Smashing Pumpkins, Counting Crows, Sheryl Crow) found her music on the web and reached out to Cole and eventually helped her to produce the successful EP “Lost Inside A Moment”, which received extensive radio play in the United Kingdom. Since then Cole has released a number of songs and has won many awards for her work including an AIMA in 2012.  Her song “Gravity” was featured on all major US Television networks including NBC, ABC, CBS, Bravo and Comedy Central.  Cole has just released her new single “I Can’t Wait” and is working on her new album "Lay It All Down", featuring Kris Kristofferson and Instant People.  At this year’s AIMA, she also carried the “Best Country Artist” category.

The multi-talented choreographer, singer, and producer John Cassese received “Come Back Album of the Year” for his “Never Too Late”.  Cassese is a nationally recognized dance instructor who has trained such celebrities as Adam Sandler, U2’s The Edge, Elizabeth Hurley, and Sir Ben Kingsly.  “Singing is always something I have focused on and has always been a big part of my life,” said Cassese, “but because I was dancing and teaching dance so regularly, I put my singing career on the back burner, though it was never, ever far from me. It has always been and always will be a great passion.”  Critics state that Cassese’s new album “Never to Late” features some of the most touching, emotional and romantic songs.

Glitter Rose, nominated for “Best Rock Artist” and “Album of the Year" for Dead or Alive, won big last night, carrying both competitive categories and giving another excellent stage performance.  “I just can’t believe that I also won Album of the Year tonight!” exclaimed Rose to the press, “This is such an honor for me.  I never would have expected it this year even though I put my heart and soul into this album production.  I am so thankful that AIMA recognized the music on this album.”  Glitter Rose’s career has been highlighted by many awards as she has also won the LAMA in the past.  “Many record labels wanted her to switch to pop, but she stayed true to her music and never gave in.  She loves rock music and will always excel in rock,” explains her manager.  Industry experts agree, stating that Rose feels comfortable in her musical genre and appears to be having fun with her work on stage.  Rose will be showcasing more of her music at an upcoming red carpet event at the Hardrock Café in Hollywood.

Beu Sisters took the award for “Best Pop Artist”. The sisters, Candice, Christie and Danielle Beu, came to the attention of award-winning songwriter Desmond Child (Kiss, Bon Jovi, Aerosmith), who introduced them to record producer Steve Greenberg and the sisters became the second act signed to S-Curve Records.  They released their debut album “Decisions” in 2002, which received rave reviews, and then went on to garner numerous movie and television soundtracks: “The Lizzie McGuire Movie Soundtrack”; “Home on the Range”; “How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days”; “Because of Winn Dixie”; “Ella Enchanted”; “Smallville”; “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” among them.  They have also been featured on “The Disney Channel.”

Melanie Taylor took the award for “Best Dance Artist”, a category that some industry insiders felt that  she was an odds-on favorite for after her excellent performance at the Whisky A Go-Go during the AIMA voting party back in September. After releasing two singles, Taylor has just released her debut album, “All About Today”, with Sly Doggie Productions. Taylor is currently working on a brand new dance single that will be released internationally.

The Ground Above was nominated for 3 awards and won 2 including Best Electronica Artist.  Following their positive youtube debut, The Ground Above received airplay on Internet Radio stations like "Suck Free Radio" and "Indie 100" and have produced for some up and coming names including "Spencer Kane," which landed Avery Berman the second win in the “Producer of the Year” category.

Untitled Other winners included Reachback (Best Music Video) for their song "No One Else", Ill Funk Ensemble (Best R&B/Soul Artist), Static People (Best Punk/Post Punk Artist), Trevor Sewell (Best Blues Artist), Tom Slack (Adult Contemporary Artist of the Year), Alex Economou (Best Jazz Artist), Samy Gana (Best Latin Artist), Walla (Best Indie Rock Artist), Soren Bryce (Best Folk/Acoustic Artist), Ko-Lition (Best Urban/Hip Hop Artist), and the group In the Midst 777 (Best Christian/Gospel Artist). The only repeat category winner, In Air took home the Best Alternative Artist award for the second year in a row.

Four other awards were given:  “The Critics Choice Award For Breakthrough Artist of The Year” went to Lisa Panagos, Brad Mercer received the "Alan Freed Award for Lifetime Achievement”, and John Carvalho was honored as “LGBT Person of the Year” for entertainment advocacy to LGBT recording artists.

Executive Producer Mikey Jayy established the Artists In Music Awards (AIMA) two years ago in order to recognize and promote the finest emerging music artists from around the world. Artists are showcased throughout the summers and nominations are given out in multiple categories.

Among the sponsors of the event were 101Distribution, Independent Music Promotions, Greg Bennett Entertainment Group, KGUP 106.5FM "The Emerge Radio Networks" (the official radio station of the Artists in Music Awards), Advantage Distribution, John Cassese, and Tailfish Productions. Taylor Van Arsdale of Tailfish Productions helped publicize the event.

To view all of the nominees or get more information on the Artist in Music Awards and submissions for the awards, please go to: www.aimusicawards.com

Thursday, February 7, 2013

DAME SHIRLEY BASSEY TO MAKE HER FIRST APPEARANCE ON AN OSCAR® SHOW


BEVERLY HILLS, CA – Dame Shirley Bassey will make a special appearance on the Oscars®, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today."We are thrilled to welcome the legendary Dame Shirley Bassey to our Oscar show," said Craig Zadan and Neil Meron. "Her association with film music is world renowned and we are proud that she will be making her first Oscar appearance on our telecast.

Bassey is this year celebrating her very own "Diamond Jubilee" with a career spanning over six decades. She has recorded over 44 albums, sold over 135 million records and has sold out concert halls across the world. In June 2012, she was one of a number of esteemed artists, including Elton John, Paul McCartney and Annie Lennox, who performed at the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Concert. In the United States, Bassey is best known for recording the theme songs for the James Bond films "Goldfinger," "Diamonds Are Forever" and "Moonraker."

Bassey joins a stellar list of previously announced Oscar performers including Adele, Norah Jones and Barbra Streisand; and presenters including "The Avengers" cast members Robert Downey Jr., Samuel L. Jackson, Chris Evans, Jeremy Renner and Mark Ruffalo; returning 2011 Oscar winners Jean Dujardin, Christopher Plummer, Octavia Spencer and Meryl Streep; co-stars Mark Wahlberg and Ted; and, special guest appearances including Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Daniel Radcliffe, Channing Tatum and Charlize Theron.

Oscars for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24, at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide. For more information go to Oscar.com or download the official Oscars app.

OSCAR® WINNER CHARLIZE THERON, CHANNING TATUM, JOSEPH GORDON-LEVITT AND DANIEL RADCLIFFE TO MAKE SPECIAL APPEARANCES ON THE OSCARS®

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – The Oscars will feature special appearances by Academy Award® winner Charlize Theron, Channing Tatum, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Daniel Radcliffe at the upcoming Awards ceremony.

“We are quite excited to have Charlize, Chan, Joe and Dan join us on the show,” said telecast producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron. “We are happy to feature them as special guests in our production.”

This will be Gordon-Levitt, Radcliffe and Tatum’s first time appearing on the Oscar show.

Theron won an Oscar for her leading role in “Monster” and received her second nomination for her leading role in “North Country” (2005). Theron starred in 2012’s “Prometheus” and “Snow White and the Huntsman.”

Tatum, who starred in five films of 2012, including “Magic Mike,” “21 Jump Street” and “The Vow,” will next be seen in “Side Effects,” due out this week, and “White House Down,” due out this Summer.

Gordon-Levitt had a very busy year, with roles in “Dark Knight Rises,” “Looper” and the Best Picture nominee “Lincoln.” He most recently starred in “Don Jon’s Addiction,” which he also wrote and directed, and which premiered at Sundance last month.

Radcliffe starred as the title character in the “Harry Potter” series, which is the highest grossing film series of all time. In 2012 he starred in “The Woman in Black,” and this year will be seen in “Kill Your Darlings,” “Horns” and “The F Word.”

Theron, Tatum, Gordon-Levitt and Radcliffe join a stellar list of previously announced Oscar presenters including “The Avengers” cast members Robert Downey Jr., Samuel L. Jackson, Chris Evans, Jeremy Renner and Mark Ruffalo; returning 2011 Oscar winners Jean Dujardin, Christopher Plummer, Octavia Spencer and Meryl Streep; co-stars Mark Wahlberg and Ted; and, musical performers including Adele, Norah Jones and Barbra Streisand.

Oscars for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24, at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide. For more information go to Oscar.com or download the official Oscars app.

ABOUT CRAIG ZADAN AND NEIL MERON
Craig Zadan and Neil Meron are producers of critically acclaimed and award-winning feature films, television movies, series, and Broadway productions. Their feature films include The Bucket List, Footloose, Hairspray, and Chicago, which won six Academy Awards including one for “Best Picture.” For television, they’ve produced films of “Steel Magnolias,” "Life with Judy Garland," and "A Raisin in the Sun," among many others and the series “Smash” and “Drop Dead Diva.” They recently returned to their roots in live theater by producing Broadway revivals of the Tony-winning “Promises, Promises” and the Tony-winning 50th Anniversary revival of “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.”

Wednesday, February 6, 2013

OSCAR® WINNERS MERYL STREEP, JEAN DUJARDIN, OCTAVIA SPENCER AND CHRISTOPHER PLUMMER RETURN TO OSCARS® STAGE

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – Last year's Academy Award® winners Meryl Streep, Jean Dujardin, Octavia Spencer and Christopher Plummer will return to present on this year's telecast, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today.

"We are honored to have Meryl, Octavia, Christopher and Jean, last year's Oscar winners in each of the acting categories, return to the Oscar stage," said Craig Zadan and Neil Meron.

Streep, who is the most nominated actor with 17 nominations, has won three Academy Awards®, including last year's lead actress award for her performance in "The Iron Lady." Dujardin won the award for his lead performance in the Best Picture winner "The Artist," it was his first nomination. Spencer, also a first time nominee, took home the Oscar for her supporting role in Best Picture nominee "The Help." Plummer, who has twice been nominated, won the award for his supporting role in "Beginners."

Oscars for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24, at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide.

"THE AVENGERS CAST" – ROBERT DOWNEY JR., CHRIS EVANS, SAMUEL L. JACKSON, JEREMY RENNER AND MARK RUFFALO – TO PRESENT ON OSCAR® SHOW

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – “Marvel’s The Avengers” cast mates Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Samuel L. Jackson, Jeremy Renner and Mark Ruffalo will present together on the Oscar stage, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today.

"We are happy to re-unite the ‘Avengers’ cast to present on our show," said Craig Zadan and Neil Meron. "Audiences who enjoyed the year's biggest box office hit will be excited to see these terrific actors back together again."

Downey has twice been nominated for an Oscar, for his leading role in “Chaplin” (1992) and for his supporting role in “Tropic Thunder” (2008).

Evans, who will be making his first Oscar show appearance, will be seen in the upcoming “The Iceman.”
Jackson was nominated in 1994 for his supporting role in “Pulp Fiction.”  He can also be seen in this year’s Best Picture nominee “Django Unchained.”

Renner was nominated for his leading role in 2009 Best Picture winner “The Hurt Locker” and for his supporting role in “The Town” (2010).  Renner had roles in this year’s “The Bourne Legacy” and “Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol” (2011).

Ruffalo received his first nomination for his supporting role in 2010 Best Picture nominee “The Kids Are All Right.”

Oscars® for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24, at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network.  The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide.



ABOUT CRAIG ZADAN AND NEIL MERON

Craig Zadan and Neil Meron are producers of critically acclaimed and award-winning feature films, television movies, series, and Broadway productions.  Their feature films include The Bucket List, Footloose, Hairspray, and Chicago, which won six Academy Awards including one for “Best Picture.”  For television, they’ve produced films of “Steel Magnolias,” "Life with Judy Garland," and "A Raisin in the Sun," among many others and the series “Smash” and “Drop Dead Diva.”  They recently returned to their roots in live theater by producing Broadway revivals of the Tony-winning “Promises, Promises” and the Tony-winning 50th Anniversary revival of “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying."

SOURCE The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

Tuesday, February 5, 2013

EP "Tinker" Tour in the US

Check out Tinker EP and Tour! 

EP Jan/Feb and Tour in June/July


Cass Mitchell....Who I Am!

Hey everyone, I'm Cass Mitchell. I'm a singer/songwriter from Australia who wants to tour the U.S. to promote my EP "Tinker" which is out on itunes . I'll be joined on the tour by KDM who is at http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-journey-4-s-4-us/ .

Cass started writing songs on guitar when she was 10. "From that time on," she shares, "I have developed a deep joy in the songwriting  process - in the way a moment in time, or an emotion can be captured in sound."
This singer/songwriter, who is based on the Sunshine Coast QLD, Australia, writes and performs all of her own material! Her music is lyrical, mesmerizing, and truly stunning.

Now, Cass is set to come out to the USA and Canada and you can be a part of making that happen by contributing to her IndieGoGo Campaign! (here)

What's Needed & What you receive


  • $5,000 is needed to cover

    1. Airfares (between Brisbane, Boston, Los Angeles, Chicago and Texas) which is 2500 between Brisbane and Los Angeles (RT), Los Angeles and Boston, New York and Orlando, Orlando and Chicago, Chicago and Dallas, Dallas and Los Angeles
    2. Train fares between Boston and New York (100).
    3. Bus fare between places in Florida and Texas (200)
    4. Lodging (when not Couchsurfing) (500)
    5. Food (350)
    6. CD Duplication (325)
    7. Promotional Flyers (175)
    8. Incidentals-emergency guitar strings, emergency guitar in the U.S., (850). 

The Impact

  • To share music is to share beauty. This is my opportunity to contribute to the beauty of the world by contributing music. For you, the contributor, this is your chance to help me get the music out there for people!
  • Recording and putting together "Tinker" has been an experience. Now I want to share the experience with YOU.  

Other Ways You Can Help



Ways to Follow:

Friday, February 1, 2013

MARK WAHLBERG AND TED TO PRESENT AT OSCARS®

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – Mark Wahlberg and his teddy bear co-star “Ted” will be presenters on the Oscar® show, telecast producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today.

"We are happy to make it possible for Mark and Ted to make their debut appearance on the Oscar stage," said Craig Zadan and Neil Meron. "And we won't deny that Ted used his pull with our host to get himself the booking."

Wahlberg and Ted starred in the hit summer comedy “Ted,” which is now the highest-grossing R-rated original comedy of all time.

"I'm excited to present an Oscar with Mark Wahlberg," said Ted. "I'm spending the next month learning to pronounce 'Quvenzhané.'"

Wahlberg has twice been nominated for Academy Awards®, in 2006 for his supporting role in “The Departed,” and in 2010 as a producer of the Best Picture nominee “The Fighter.”

Wahlberg and Ted join a stellar list of previously announced Oscar performers including Adele, Norah Jones and Barbra Streisand.

Oscars for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24, at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide.

Is She The R2-D2 To Your C-3PO? Then Her Universe Has You Covered With New Valentine's Day Quote Tees Designed By Star Wars Actress Ashley Eckstein

NEW YORK, NY - January 30, 2013 - She's the Princess Leia to your Han Solo, your cosplay confidante, and the best friend you share all-day Doctor Who marathons with - she totally gets your geeky side. So, what do you give the fangirl who's the love of your life or if YOU are a Geek Girl looking for a gift for yourself? Her Universe has the perfect Valentine's Day present for the fangirl who is both nerdy and stylish. Ashley Eckstein, the voice of Ahsoka Tano on Star Wars: The Clone Wars and founder of the sci-fi apparel line, Her Universe, revealed today three new quote tees featuring insider sayings from Star Wars, Doctor Who and Star Trek such as:

Star Wars - You Are The Scoundrel To My Princess / You Are The Clone To My Trooper / You Are The Wookiee To My Win

Doctor Who - You Are The Bow Tie To My Suspenders / You Are The Key To My TARDIS / You Are The Doctor To My Companion

Star Trek - You Are The Logic To My Vulcan / You Are The Purrr To My Tribble / You Are The Captain To My Starship

"I've been seeing these types of posters everywhere! 'You Are The Macaroni To My Cheese,' 'You Are The Peanut Butter To My Jelly,'" said Eckstein. "I love them and I wanted to make sci-fi versions in time for Valentine's Day! It's never been so sweet to give the gift of nerd!"

For the quote Tees Eckstein has worked with fellow fangirl, Anne Convery, as a guest designer. Convery is a self described "suburban nerd," graduate student and wife of Star Wars: The Clone Wars Supervising Director Dave Filoni. "I had a blast playing with the iconography," said Convery. "For example, Doctor Who has such a rich universe for us all to play in. When Ashley and I brainstormed the 'You are the __ to My __' shirt, it really brought home to me just how key the relationships are in Doctor Who."

"When I think of the iconic Geek Girl, I think of Anne," said Eckstein. "She is such an inspiration to me. I have been picking Anne's brain on designs for a few years now and it's about time that we collaborated on something for Her Universe!"

The Star Wars, Doctor Who and Star Trek Quote Tees are available to order now at www.heruniverse.com. Make sure to order no later than February 6th to guarantee delivery by February 14th, Valentine's Day.


About Her Universe
Her Universe was launched in 2009 by actress and entrepreneur Ashley Eckstein, and her partner, The Araca Group, known as one of the most innovative theatrical production and merchandise companies in the world. Her Universe was created to directly address the expanding market of female fans by entering into its first agreement with Lucas Licensing to develop and produce a line of female-centered Star Wars apparel and accessories. The success of that line was followed up with a collection for the Syfy network including such shows as Battlestar Galactica and with BBC America for Doctor Who and with CBS Consumer Products for Star Trek. You can learn more about Her Universe and purchase the current line of fangirl apparel and accessories by going to www.heruniverse.com and by following Eckstein on Facebook (facebook.com/HerUniverse) and Twitter (twitter.com/HerUniverse).

About Anne Convery
Anne Convery is a self described "suburban nerd, wife and graduate student whose major fandoms are J.R.R. Tolkien, Neil Gaiman and Doctor Who." She also has a good vocabulary for the Star Wars universe, but, as she claims, due mostly by osmosis as it jumps from her husband's (Star Wars: The Clone Wars Supervising Director Dave Filoni) head and into hers. She has no other way of explaining how she knows random trivia like the working title of the first Star Wars movie or what planet Togruta are from.