Tense Moments Behind The Screen

On Oscar Night®

The occasion was OSCAR NIGHT AMERICA, Sunday, March 23, 2003. The place was the historic Midland Theatre where an eager crowd gathered to enjoy a pre-show banquet provided by area restaurateurs and the festivities to follow on the giant theatre screen. With mixed emotions, Variety's hard working crew awaited the opening music that heralded Hollywood's BIGGEST SHOW OF THE YEAR.

It's a story of high hopes and jittery nerves that now can be told. For while the stars on the west coast dreamed of winning their Oscars, we in Kansas City hoped for a telecast that proceeded without interruption. The behind-the-scenes' drama was triggered by an announcement from the ABC network to all participating stations that because of fast-breaking events in Iraq, the long-awaited Oscars might be pre-empted at any time.

Without diminishing for a moment the terrible prospect of war, we also harbored thoughts of refunding the thousands of dollars the evening would earn for the children, and that saddened us as well. Fortunately, we lucked out! The show went on as scheduled, live from Hollywood, with all its special moments larger than life on the giant screen, and not a minute was lost.

With deep concern for our boys and girls thousands of miles from home, and a fervent prayer for a speedy resolution to the conflict, Variety at least had the satisfaction of knowing that Oscar Night America was a total success -and the further satisfaction of knowing that the evening's proceeds, totaling over $32,000, will go a long way toward helping the children.

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