Column Awards held tonight

by John Garcia of of John Garcia's The Column

After almost a year in planning, the ups and downs of voting, voting codes, that damn long ballot, and the shocks and surprises of who got nominated, the night finally comes to fruition. They have transformed the Courtyard Theatre into Moulin Rouge to make you feel like you are in the Oscar nominated film. Also, guest stars have terrific surprises planned tonight as well. And if you did not get on the standby list today, they will accept walk-ins for $30 if space is permitting.

Don't forget, there are five very special guest stars:

• A Tony Award nominee - Stephanie D'Abruzzo
• A star of hit films, TV, and Stage - Christian Campbell
• Two television legends - George Wendt & Richard Thomas
• And a co-host who happens to be one of the biggest comedy hits of the TV season - Michael Urie

This year The Column Awards will also feature a first-ever silent auction. Board members have been very busy gathering wonderful donations such as celebrity memorabilia, tickets, etc. As always, all proceeds will be donated to Broadway Cares / Equity Fights AIDS. So please, take some time to peruse the items which will be listed in the Donor's Lounge, located in the lobby of the Courtyard Theatre. The auction will open at 6 p.m. and stay open for bidding until showtime. If you would like to donate an item or service (i.e. photography sessions, lessons, spa certificates etc.) for the silent auction, please contact the auction coordinator Doug Fowler at dfowlertx@aol.com.