Clooney to star in '8' perf

ClooneyGeorge Clooney will star in the western world Coast premiere of "8," Dustin Lance Black's play concerning the federal trial to overturn California's prohibit on same-sex marriage. Take advantage of Reiner will direct the performance of "8," a 1-evening-only benefit for that American Foundation for Equal Privileges, that is spearheading the task to Proposition 8. The big event is going to be held March 3 in the Wilshire Ebell Theater, with a lot more cast people to become introduced. "It's astonishing that lgbt People in america continue to be treated as second-class people," Clooney stated inside a statement. "I'm certain that, soon, the laws and regulations of the nation will reflect the fundamental truth lgbt people -- like several people -- are born equal in dignity and privileges." The play is dependant on the particular words within the trial transcripts and interviews using the litigants as well as their families. Black and Reiner, board people from the foundation, attended a lot of the trial in addition to a recent hearing prior to the U.S. Court of Appeals. A choice is pending there on whether or not to uphold U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker's ruling that Prop 8 is unconstitutional. Chad Griffin, the leader from the foundation's board, stated the "play continues to exhibit People in america -- 1 by 1 -- that prejudice and fear cannot endure truth and justice." An objective from the play hasn't been to boost legal funds but to dramatize the trial for any wider audience. Walker's efforts to televise the proceedings were rebuffed through the Top Court, even though Court of Appeals is weighing if the tapes from the proceedings ought to be launched. The debut performance of "8" in NY in September elevated a reported $a million for that foundation. The performance has been presented through the foundation in addition to Broadway Impact. Contact Ted Manley at ted.manley@variety.com