On February 29th, 2020, the Palm Springs Cultural Center will be rockin’ out Hollywood-style at the opening of legendary photographer Michael Childers’ new stage presentation and art exhibit, ROCKIN’ HOLLYWOOD.
ROCKIN’ HOLLYWOOD spans forty years, and features forty of Michael’s famous photographic subjects – all rock, pop, disco, and music legends – including the likes of Sir Elton John, Rod Stewart, Cher, Bette Midler, Ringo Starr, Bernadette Peters, Patti Lupone, Fergie, Henry Rollins and Tina Turner among others. It also features Michael’s memories of both the personas and the photo shoots—the wild pomp and circumstance that surrounded these music legends, along with some juicy gossip. Childers will discuss all this live on-stage with actress/singer Beverly D’Angelo, who will moderate the talk.
ROCKIN’ HOLLYWOOD is not just about the subjects though. It’s also about the relationships Childers built with his subjects, developing an intimate level of personal insight which his artwork later reveals—those feelings were often mirrored by his subjects.

Actress LORNA LUFT said “working with Michael was an amazing experience. One I’ll treasure forever.”Singer and actress ELAINE PAIGE commented “Michael has such an outstanding photographic eye and an impeccable sense of style, enhanced by his great knowledge of lighting and make up.” She went on to say “It’s not as easy as one imagines having to pose for a photograph, one can become self-conscious, but Michael has the talent to make you feel relaxed and confident. You trust him because you know ultimately the result will be perfect.”

“He made me feel like a movie star from the 30’s,” said actress BERNADETTE PETERS “beautiful and glamorous.”
“Working with Michael was a truly fun and collaborative experience,” said singer/songwriter HENRY ROLLINS. “He has a lot of energy, and after the session is over, you feel like you have not been photographed as much as been a co-conspirator in making something really special. Photos I did with him we used for years afterwards in press and promotion. I’m still signing them to this day. He’s great—a ‘for real’ visionary.”
Award-winning journalist HANK PLANTE puts it another way: “Michael Childers has had a backstage pass to life since the Swinging 60’s.  Fortunately for the rest of us, he eavesdropped on that life with his camera. Spend five minutes with Michael and he will bring out who you really are.  Spend a photo session with him, and it’s captured for all eternity.”

Film critic Rex Reed said “Michael Childers makes every subject look better than they ever have in their lives. When he clicks, you stay clicked. You also look the way you hope you will look forever.”

Actress and Philanthropist LUCIE ARNAZ put it best, when she said of working with Michael, “Being in Michael’s lair and watching how he weaves his magic, was almost as thrilling as seeing the photographic choices he gifts you with at the finish line. I was honored to have him capture my essence so impeccably.”
The ROCKIN’ HOLLYWOOD Exhibition and Show opens on Saturday, February 29, 2020. The Opening Night Reception starts at 6 pm, and will be followed by an on-stage presentation and discussion with Michael and Beverly D’Angelo, beginning at 7:30pm. Signed non-editioned prints of all the photos will be available for purchase by special order, and proceeds will benefit the Palm Springs Cultural Center.
Tickets are available for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at www.psculturalcenter.org, Palm Springs Cultural Center Box Office, 2300 Baristo Rd, or by calling 760-325-6565.