Cady McClain Leads Staged Reading of THE PARK for LA Fire Relief
Attend a reading at West Hollywood’s Marilyn Monroe Theatre Saturday to aid fire survivors.
Image: Instagram
Charity Reading For La Fire Survivors
Cady McClain, award-winning actress and longtime daytime star, is rallying theater fans to West Hollywood this Saturday for a staged reading of Eric Conger’s THE PARK. The one-act drama explores themes of community and healing—an apt choice six months after the wildfires that scorched parts of Los Angeles. Hosted at the Marilyn Monroe Theatre, the event donates all ticket proceeds and extra contributions to the Entertainment Community Fund, supporting residents still rebuilding lives and homes.
In an Instagram post, McClain thanked Soap Hub for “shouting out our exciting staged reading,” while spotlighting James Patrick Stuart (General Hospital) in “a super fun role.” “I personally know so many people who are only just now beginning to find their feet again,” she wrote. “Your coming to enjoy this evening with us will help them know they are still cared about and give them a little boost!” Ticket tiers start at an accessible price point, with options for larger donations.
Star-studded Cast
The reading features an ensemble of stage and screen talent. Emmy Award nominee Finola Hughes (Flashdance, General Hospital) serves as guest host. Cast members include Jack Cain (Ransom Canyon), William Dixon (The Residence), Presciliana Esparolini (Mayan M.C.), Clay Hollander (Ray Donovan), Katharine Lee McEwan (Solitary), Sigute Miller (Tragic Magic), Larry Poindexter (S.W.A.T.), Erik Passoja (The Flight Attendant), Kholan Studi (Tulsa King), Georgiana Elizabeth Okon (Black Panther), Sophia Vassilieva (The Little Things) and McClain herself. Directions are read by Mak Shealy. Executive producers are Amanda Quinn Olivar, Axial Theatre and the Lee Strasberg Creative Center.
About The Park
Eric Conger’s play unfolds in a public park as strangers bond over shared loss and unexpected hope. The text balances dry humor with emotional depth, inviting audiences to consider how human connections can spark recovery. While a full production run is planned for later this year, this benefit reading offers a rare preview of Conger’s script in its raw form.
Venue And Atmosphere
The Marilyn Monroe Theatre, located at 7936 Santa Monica Boulevard, is an intimate black-box space named after Hollywood’s iconic star. With seating for just under 100 guests, the venue fosters a close connection between performers and audience—perfect for the play’s confessional style. Attendees can expect minimal staging, focusing attention on the language and performances.
Cady Mcclain’s Theatrical Journey
McClain’s career spans three decades. She won Daytime Emmy Awards in 2004 and 2010 for her role as Dixie Cooney on As the World Turns, and a third Emmy in 2021 for Outstanding Supporting Actress. Beyond soaps, her resume includes stage work, film and television appearances, along with directing credits. Last summer, she helmed a one-act play by Walter John Thompson at The Chain Festival in New York City, guided by theatre veteran Austin Pendleton.
Tickets And How To Help
The reading opens at 7PM on Saturday. Links to purchase tickets or make a standalone donation are available via McClain’s Instagram—link in bio. With options starting at $25, organizers aim to make the evening accessible while gathering vital funds. All proceeds go directly to the Entertainment Community Fund, which provides emergency grants, counseling and housing support for entertainment professionals and residents affected by the wildfires.
Supporting La’s Fire-affected Community
Last December’s Saddleridge and surrounding wildfires forced thousands to evacuate, leaving homes charred and livelihoods on hold. Six months on, many remain displaced or face insurance hurdles. Organizers hope the benefit reading uplifts survivors by demonstrating community solidarity and generating essential resources for long-term recovery.
Entertainment Community Fund’s Mission
Founded in 1924 as The Actors Fund, the Entertainment Community Fund provides financial support, wellness services and career resources to entertainment professionals and local residents in crisis. In 2023 alone, the fund granted over $5 million in emergency relief—making this staged reading part of a broader network of care for the arts and Los Angeles community.
A night at the Marilyn Monroe Theatre this Saturday isn’t just a dramatic reading—it’s a beacon of hope. In joining Cady McClain and a passionate cast, audiences can witness the transformative power of storytelling and take part in Los Angeles’s ongoing recovery.
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