Little Rock-born actress Joey Lauren Adams and Mammoth Spring-born actress Tess Harper haven't forgotten their roots.
The two special guests blended in like family during "A Hollywood Night in Hot Springs," a reception held July 12 at the historic home of Erma and Ray Steelsmith. The event was a fundraiser for the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival. Dorothy Morris, Don Munro and Rex Nelson served as co-hosts, along with the Arkansas Motion Picture Institute and the board of directors of the Hot Springs Documentary Film Institute.
Having been encouraged to do so, guests showed up in varying degrees of "Tinsel Town attire," from cocktail attire with flashy jewelry accessories to full costumes. They enjoyed passed hors d'oeuvres and wine while perusing the Steelsmith home, one area of which was appointed with books, photos and posters of the stars of the silver screen. Life-size cutouts of the stars greeted guests in several locations.
A short program included remarks about Hot Springs and the festival, along with a chance to donate to the event. "I want to join the circle," Harper broke in as festival director Courtney Pledger thanked existing supporters. Singer Shirley Chauvin -- accompanied by Clyde Pound on piano -- livened up an on-the-spot donation drive with her rendition of "I Want Some Money."
The event raised $20,000, according to festival board chairman Susan Altrui.
The 23rd annual Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival will be Oct. 10-19 at the Arlington Hotel.
-- Story and photos by Helaine R. Williams
High Profile on 07/20/2014