Virtual Virtuosos

The Music Academy of the West, whose 73rd annual summer festival was due to kick off on June 15 until July 10, is launching the Music Academy Remote Learning Institute to connect with audiences online during the lockdown.

“Our hope is to bring the faculty and fellows to Santa Barbara and enjoy music together with all of you,” says president Scott Reed.

Around May 15 plans will be announced for the remainder if the summer, with the Remote Learning Institute extended if necessary.

“In this unprecedented time, the world is looking for artists to flourish in new ways,” adds Scott. “It is essential we provide a supportive environment for young classical musicians to develop their artistry.”

The academy’s opening night gala has also been postponed…

Happy Birthday, Anne!

The late Hollywood icon Kirk Douglas‘s widow, Anne, has celebrated her 101st birthday, just two months after Kirk, a longtime Montecito resident, died at 103.

Grandson Cameron Douglas, 41, documented the happy occasion as he stopped by the former actress-producer’s home to wish her Happy Birthday with Anne wearing a tailored purple suit and pearls in a wheelchair, with a face mask.

Cameron, son of Oscar winner Michael Douglas and his ex-wife Diandra, shot video footage from his car with partner, Viviane Thibes, and their daughter Lua, 2.