John Travolta was supposed to be in town September 9 to speak at the Brinker International Forum, which'll take place at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center. But he can't make it, says a media release that just went out -- "due to unforeseen professional obligations," by which I assume they mean this, sweet baby Xenu. But, it turns out the forum's getting quite the considerable last-minute upgrade: the great Carl Reiner, who's bringing with him Martin Short; the twosome will interview each other, brilliant. The full release is after the jump. But first, an oldie but goodie. --Robert Wilonsky
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: PROGRAM CHANGE
Carl Reiner and Martin Short to Appear in Brinker International Forum on September 9, 2008
Duo Replaces Originally-Scheduled Program Featuring John Travolta
DALLAS (August 15, 2008) - Due to unforeseen professional obligations, John Travolta will not appear as originally scheduled in the Brinker International Forum event on September 9, 2008. The Dallas Center for the Performing Arts announced today a new program for the same date, Carl Reiner and Martin Short: A Conversation. The two legends of comedy and film, in a rare joint appearance, will interview each other.
"To have not just one, but two of the great masters of comedy and improv on stage together makes this a special program and a great way to begin the inaugural season of the Brinker International Forum," said Bill Lively, president and CEO of the Dallas Center for the Performing Arts. "Moreover, the conversation format will give our audience a rare opportunity to hear these performers speak candidly and unscripted. This promises to be an entertaining evening, full of surprises and great fun."
The multi-talented Carl Reiner is a writer, actor, comedian, director and 12-time Emmy Award winner. Most recently, he is known for his recurring role as con man Saul Bloom in the Ocean's Eleven film series. Mr. Reiner became a television legend as creator and co-star of The Dick Van Dyke Show. With Mel Brooks, he created the persona of "The 2,000 Year Old Man" that led to a series of comedy routines featured on television and on albums. Mr. Reiner played "The Interviewer" of the oldest man of the world, portrayed by Mr. Brooks. Mr. Reiner also directed numerous feature films, including Oh God! starring George Burns and The Jerk, starring Steve Martin. He has published three novels and a collection of short stories and has written and starred in several films.
Born in Ontario, Canada, Martin Short began his career on Canada's SCTV Comedy Network, where his work garnered an Emmy Award. His proven ability as a comedic chameleon and his host of hilarious impressions brought him to the attention of Saturday Night Live. He quickly crossed over into feature film work with his big screen debut in Three Amigos. Perhaps his most memorable role was that of the scene-stealing Franck the wedding planner in Father of the Bride. Not limiting himself to acting, Mr. Short has also written, produced and starred in three highly acclaimed comedy specials for television. In 2001, Mr. Short created and starred in Primetime Glick for Comedy Central, playing a fictitious "Hollywood legend and celebrity Interviewer" which garnered an Emmy nomination for Best Performer in a Musical, Comedy or Variety Show. A Tony Award®-winning veteran of theatre on Broadway and in Canada, Mr. Short recently starred in the critically acclaimed Broadway hit, Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me, a musical comedy.
Carl Reiner and Martin Short: A Conversation, sponsored by Jones Day, begins at 8 p.m. at The Meyerson Symphony Center on Tuesday, September 9, 2008.
