Celebrating UPA: A Night of Mid-Century Modern Animation Classics
On January 15, 2026, Old Town Music Hall in El Segundo, California, will host a special event titled 'A Night of UPA: Mid-Century Modern Animation Classics on the Big Screen!' This gathering promises to be a remarkable evening, as a distinguished panel of animation notables discusses the impactful works of United Productions of America (UPA), a studio renowned for transforming the landscape of animation in the 20th century.
The event will take place at 140 Richmond Street, with doors opening at 6:30 PM and the panel discussion commencing at 7 PM. Attendees are encouraged to secure their tickets, priced at just $10, as seating is limited. Tickets and additional details can be found on Eventbrite at this link.
Among the noteworthy guests, Jerry Beck, a celebrated animation historian and founder of the Animation Scoop website, will lead the discussion. He will be joined by Sylvie BosRau, granddaughter of UPA co-founder Stephen Bosustow; Jorge R. Gutierrez, the filmmaker behind 'The Book of Life'; David Silverman, director of 'The Simpsons'; Tom Sito, an accomplished animation director and historian; and Kevin Schreck, the documentary filmmaker and organizer of the event.
The night will showcase several UPA classics, including the iconic 'Gerald McBoing-Boing' (1950), 'Rooty Toot Toot' (1951), and the very first appearance of Mr. Magoo in 'Ragtime Bear' (1949). These animated shorts are not only entertaining but also significant milestones in animation history, reflective of a unique artistic vision that continues to resonate today. Jerry Beck remarked, 'UPA changed the course of animation during the 20th Century as the studio's influence is still being felt in practically every film and series made ever since. This tribute to the artists and their films, 75 years since winning their first Oscar for 'Gerald McBoing-Boing,' is long overdue.'
Kevin Schreck echoed these sentiments, saying, 'UPA is a name that many animation aficionados recognize, but its films remain rarely seen and appreciated. I am honored to join an amazing lineup of speakers to help celebrate the legacy of this revolutionary studio, which has been underrepresented for far too long.'
The event is produced by Kevin Schreck Productions and Inanimate LLC, with Schreck known for his acclaimed documentaries such as 'Persistence of Vision' and 'Antarctic Voyage.' Tim Finn, the Executive Producer of the popular YouTube channel 'Atomic Abe' and owner of Hub Comics, also plays a pivotal role in organizing this tribute.
The atmosphere is set to be further enriched by the Historic Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Pipe Organ, which will accompany certain screenings, evoking a nostalgic essence akin to classic cinema experiences. This is an exciting opportunity for animation lovers to gather, celebrate UPA's significant contributions to the art form, and partake in the lively discussions about creativity that shaped the animation industry.
In commemorating the works and innovators of the past, 'A Night of UPA' invites attendees to reflect on the enduring impact of these animations that have paved the way for contemporary storytelling in the medium. Don't miss the chance to be part of this special evening that promises to be both enlightening and entertaining. Mark your calendars and reserve your spot for this unique celebration of animation history!
The event will take place at 140 Richmond Street, with doors opening at 6:30 PM and the panel discussion commencing at 7 PM. Attendees are encouraged to secure their tickets, priced at just $10, as seating is limited. Tickets and additional details can be found on Eventbrite at this link.
Among the noteworthy guests, Jerry Beck, a celebrated animation historian and founder of the Animation Scoop website, will lead the discussion. He will be joined by Sylvie BosRau, granddaughter of UPA co-founder Stephen Bosustow; Jorge R. Gutierrez, the filmmaker behind 'The Book of Life'; David Silverman, director of 'The Simpsons'; Tom Sito, an accomplished animation director and historian; and Kevin Schreck, the documentary filmmaker and organizer of the event.
The night will showcase several UPA classics, including the iconic 'Gerald McBoing-Boing' (1950), 'Rooty Toot Toot' (1951), and the very first appearance of Mr. Magoo in 'Ragtime Bear' (1949). These animated shorts are not only entertaining but also significant milestones in animation history, reflective of a unique artistic vision that continues to resonate today. Jerry Beck remarked, 'UPA changed the course of animation during the 20th Century as the studio's influence is still being felt in practically every film and series made ever since. This tribute to the artists and their films, 75 years since winning their first Oscar for 'Gerald McBoing-Boing,' is long overdue.'
Kevin Schreck echoed these sentiments, saying, 'UPA is a name that many animation aficionados recognize, but its films remain rarely seen and appreciated. I am honored to join an amazing lineup of speakers to help celebrate the legacy of this revolutionary studio, which has been underrepresented for far too long.'
The event is produced by Kevin Schreck Productions and Inanimate LLC, with Schreck known for his acclaimed documentaries such as 'Persistence of Vision' and 'Antarctic Voyage.' Tim Finn, the Executive Producer of the popular YouTube channel 'Atomic Abe' and owner of Hub Comics, also plays a pivotal role in organizing this tribute.
The atmosphere is set to be further enriched by the Historic Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Pipe Organ, which will accompany certain screenings, evoking a nostalgic essence akin to classic cinema experiences. This is an exciting opportunity for animation lovers to gather, celebrate UPA's significant contributions to the art form, and partake in the lively discussions about creativity that shaped the animation industry.
In commemorating the works and innovators of the past, 'A Night of UPA' invites attendees to reflect on the enduring impact of these animations that have paved the way for contemporary storytelling in the medium. Don't miss the chance to be part of this special evening that promises to be both enlightening and entertaining. Mark your calendars and reserve your spot for this unique celebration of animation history!
Topics Entertainment & Media）
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