CINEMA RETRO COVERS DAVID MCCALLUM AT "THE GREAT ESCAPE" 50TH ANNIVERSARY SCREENING, OMAHA

[Omaha Steve]

1. Omaha Steve's notes of the event

Somebody asked if I was there


I am fortunate to know Bruce Crawford. Omaha is extraordinarily fortunate to have him and what he does for Omaha twice a year, the night of nights. On Saturday night 11-10-13 David McCallum was the star of honor for the sold out 50th anniversary showing of "The Great Escape". At the beginning of the festivities before the showing, a round of applause was given for Veteran's in the house. Actors in military outfits in the theater added to the moment.

A fund raiser for the Nebraska Kidney Association, they informed the audience on why screening is a vital part of preventative health. Those with a history of high blood pressure and/or diabetes are encouraged to be tested: http://www.kidneyne.org/Start

A limited USPS commemorative artwork envelope by nationally recognized artist Nicolosi and a one day postmark stamped Joslyn Museum were on sale. A few remaining signed by Omaha Post Master Keith Reid, Nicolosi, and David McCallum may still be available through Bruce's web site: http://www.omahafilmevent.com/index.htm

Early during the film we had a few complaints of people taking flash photos of the screen. It soon stopped. During the Steve McQueen motorcycle chase there was another flash. As an event staff member I went to to ask the gentleman to stop. To my surprise I had just busted the World Herald's photographer.

A full size replica display of McQueen's jumping the barbwire fence, and McCallum memorabilia covering his almost 60 years (he started acting at age 10) in film bought back memories and comments from everyone.

Great Escape little known trivia. While walking out with Bruce and his beautiful constant companion Judi Morinelli, Bruce told of a private moment comment from David. There was originally an idea to film David's death scene with a shapely young lady running over to to hold David in her arms. It was then ruled out and never shot.

The most touching moment of the evening was witnessed by just a very few in the crowded theater. As David left the stage after his wonderful comments he had to walk the length of the darkened theater to get to his seat. At the back of the seats a long time fan sat in a wheelchair. He stopped and placed his hand of her shoulder and spoke to her. You could see the adrenalin lift her spirits. Her companion was unprepared and didn't have time to snap a photo. I went and talked to the obviously still excited fan. I told her that moment alone was worth the price of her ticket. Wiggling with excitement she exclaimed "IT SURE WAS!" Don't worry, she got her photo with David when she went through the autograph line.

It takes a couple dozen regular volunteers to make things work so well at Bruce's events. Speaking for all of us, it is worth every minute of being a part of it all.

Omaha Steve

Fountain in the autograph area (Storz Fountain Court) of the museum.



The theater: