Oscars 2013: A night when the stars come out on Vashon

One of Vashon’s liveliest parties is coming up — Vashon Film Society’s annual Oscar Night bash at the Vashon Theatre, set to start at 4 p.m. Sunday with rides around the block in a classic British limousine and a swarm of local “paparazzi” snapping photos as guests arrive on the red carpet.

By Elizabeth Shepherd • February 19, 2013 3:14 pm

This is the group’s 16th year of hosting the gala — a chance for Islanders to dress up like movie stars or their favorite film characters and plunk down in theater seats for hours on end to watch the awards show.

At the event, the on-screen Hollywood glitz always clashes nicely with the campy, down-home feeling of a dress-up party — one of the reasons, no doubt, that the night is well attended by folks of all ages. During the commercial breaks of the Oscar show, a costume contest takes place on stage, with awards in almost a dozen categories, including “best pajamas.”

This year’s hosts are Tami Brockway Joyce and Jennifer Sutherland. Elizabeth Ripley, Elizabeth Nye and John Staczek have been tapped to judge the costumes.

Snapdragon Bakery and Café is catering the event for the first time, and Julie Farrell of Tease Chocolates will be on hand with artisan confections. Wine sales will benefit the Vashon Maury Community Food Bank — George and Linda Kirkish of Palouse Winery are contributing their award-winning wines to the festivities.

The night will also feature a tribute to the Wolcott family, a clan celebrating its 10th anniversary of owning the Vashon Theatre. Led by matriarch Eileen Wolcott, the family has made countless improvements to the theater, while at the same time weathering a crippling recession and big changes in the movie business. Filmmaker Michael Monteleone has been tapped to create a short film documenting the family’s accomplishments and contributions to the community.

The film, said organizer Leslie McMichael, will “sum up the Wolcotts’ eventful decade of providing movies, filmmaker events and premieres, comedy, concerts and birthday parties.”

Oscar Night begins with limo rides from 4 to 5 p.m. for $10 per person. Entrance to the show is $10 in advance, $12 at the door. There’s also a $30 “Superstar” deal — admission, limo ride with photo, beverage and meal.