Santa Monica News
"Happy Birthday Marion!" Celebration
By Katherine Noland
Jan 2, 2013 - 9:38:46 AM

SANTA MONICA—In celebration of beloved actress Marion Davies, the Annenberg Community Beach House will be hosting a “Happy Birthday Marion!” party at the Annenberg Beach House this Sunday, January 6.

From 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., there will be dancing and historic tours of the famed party hostess, famous actress, and philanthropist's life with pictures and stories at the Julia Morgan designed guest house that she shared with husband William Randolph Hearst. The party will start with a 30 minute beginner swing dance lesson with world-renowned instructor Giovanni Quintero. Dancing will continue until 1:30 p.m., and both singles and couples are encouraged to join in on the fun.

Attendees are also welcome to dress in gold coast apparel or costumes, as the actress was known for her wild themed parties such as the circus, Wild West, or her “baby parties” where people came dressed as kids, according to the star’s home website http://www.decofilms.com/mariondavies/index.htm.

Marion Davies

Davies hit the spotlight on screen from the early teens until the 1930s. The romantic relationship between her and media tycoon William Randolph Hearst is one of Hollywood’s most famous marriages. She spent the later years of her life doing charity work, and made two children’s hospitals and a foundation to care for patients after her death in 1961 from cancer of the jaw. TCM (Turner Classic Movies) will be showing nine Davies films in a row on her actual birthday, Thursday, January 3.

At 3:00 a.m. PST, the marathon will start with “The Florodora Girl,” and follow with “Not So Dumb,” “The Bachelor Father,” “Five and Ten,” “Blondie of the Follies,” “Peg O' My Heart,” “Operator 13,” “Cain and Mabel,” and “Heart’s Divided.”  The Annenberg Community Beach House, owned and operated by the city of Santa Monica, is located at 415 Pacific Coast Highway.

This event is free and open to all ages, however, reservations are recommended as spots are limited. If interested in attending, visit happybirthdaymarion2013.eventbrite.com to make a reservation or call 310-458-4904.