TULANE TALK

September 15, 2006

Good Morning:

Last December, as we were preparing to re-open after Hurricane Katrina I told students that Tulane University would be the most exciting place in the country for them to live and learn.

At the time I wasnít thinking that excitement would include Sean Penn, Jude Law, Kate Winslet, James Gandolfini, Mark Ruffalo and Patricia Clarkson visiting us for the world premiere of All the Kingís Men Sept. 16 at McAlister Auditorium.

As you may know, part of the film was shot in New Orleans and, like everyone who visits our city, the filmmakers were captured by its charm and hospitality. Valerie Van Galder, president of Marketing for Columbia Pictures, told us, ìWe wanted to give something back to the community that was so gracious to us during the filming of the movie. All of the stars were eager to come back to this beautiful city.î

And we, likewise, are eager to have them. Columbia allotted approximately 600 premiere tickets to Tulane students through our Political Science and Theatre Departments. They are also encouraging the Tulane community and public, even those who don’t have tickets to the premiere itself, to come see the celebrities as they make their way up the red carpet along McAlister Drive starting at 4:30 p.m. the day of the premiere.

Besides an opportunity to see some of the worldís most famous stars and host the premiere of one of the major movie productions of the year, this event is evidence that New Orleans has reclaimed its title as ëHollywood South.í More and more film projects are being attracted by the historic setting our city has to offer as well as its compelling stories. This premiere will shine the spotlight, in a very positive way, on the continued recovery of our city and university.

Have a great weekend,