Helping to celebrate our gal's birthday were friends old and new, including the vivacious James Nadeaux, Betty's Sunset dresser and the man who designed the stunning gown(s) for her recent Carnegie Hall extravaganza; BC/EFA's Kevin Duncan, one of the men responsible for the Carnegie Hall event; producer Victoria Maxwell; critic John Simon and wife Pat; author Dick Scanlon; John Hughes; and the host of the evening, Playbill Magazine publisher Philip Birsh and his lovely wife Bay.
After the cocktail hour, guests were seated at one of three beautifully decorated tables in San Domenico's private party room. At each setting was a box of Godiva truffles. . .a party favor that was the perfect reminder of such a sweet evening. In between the luscious courses the star of the evening wandered from table to table, checking on her guests and even delivering an impromptu version of "It's My Party."
Following dinner, Philip Birsh led the champagne toast, thanking Betty for her recent sold-out concert that benefited Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. Philip spoke glowingly about BB, whom he thanked for being not only the "star of the concert, but also for her tireless efforts off the stage," which made the fundraising concert the tremendous success it turned out to be.
A beautiful chocolate birthday cake, decorated with just enough candles, was then brought to Betty's table. Betty took a dramatic pause before blowing out all the candles--just to make sure she wished for the right things. . . And, what would any birthday celebration be without the ritual gift-opening ceremony?
James Nadeaux assisted the effervescent Buckley as she opened gifts that included a chimpanzee candlestick ("Any laws against burying him in the garden?") from author Dick Scanlon, a beautiful shawl, a foot massager that Buckley says she needs after climbing all those stairs in Sunset. BB also received an overwhelming amount of body lotions and soaps, and in her own Texas dry wit joked, "Are you guys concerned that I'm not showering enough?"
From San Domenico the partygoers were whisked downtown in black, stretch limos, where the party continued through the middle of the night with dancing at such NY as the Bowery Bar. . .
It's hard to believe that Betty will be leaving the Boulevard in less than two months. George, Betty's assistant, informed me that a slew of concert appearances have already been lined up, and Betty is examining television and film offers as well. Let's hope that Sunday night was the beginning of--to steal a line from her current show--"the perfect year."
Happy Birthday Betty Lynn.