If you've ever fantasized about living the glamorous life of a Hollywood mover-and-shaker, put your dreams aside, put on that tux or gown, and play make-believe at Oscar Night America, the Academy Awards viewing party hosted by Tampa Theatre. For the ninth consecutive year, the theater hosts one of 49 officially licensed Oscar parties across the country. As a guest, you can have your nose powdered, enjoy limousine rides around the block, and walk down the red carpet through a throng of "autograph seekers." VIPs enjoy the added perk of a reception prior to the telecast and receive the official program distributed to guests at the Kodak Theater in Hollywood. Ooh la la. Proceeds from the event support Tampa Theatre's restoration efforts. Complimentary popcorn, soda and coffee are provided during the live telecast, which starts at 7:30 p.m. Sun., Feb. 25, Red Carpet Festivities 6-8 p.m., VIP Reception 6-7:30 p.m., general admission 7:30 p.m., 711 Franklin St., downtown Tampa, $35 general/$125 VIP (includes champagne, wine, beer, hors d'oeuvres and premium reserved seating), 813-274-8982, tampatheatre.org.
This article appears in Feb 21-27, 2007.