Shooting Stars

The Photographers Ball began as a Halloween costume party for the benefit of the needy camera boys. Now, five years later, it’s one of the most spectacular yearly parties in town. Esther Williams and her party of ten raided the studio wardrobe so they could dress alike. The gilded Oscars brought along quarts of alcohol in case thay had to remove the paint. One thing you can count on at the Hollywood Press Photographers Ball—it always has the same ending—some time in the wee hours of the morning!

Red Skelton, as Civil War photographer, snaps Vera-Ellen and her date Rock Hudson, as Mr. and Mrs. Oscar

Ann Blyth, as a helicopter, was grounded by Roddy McDowall’s appearance. He came as a walking mailbag

Cameramen, who love Sonja Henie, gave her and Winthrop Gardiner a huge bridal cake

Corinne Calvet carries a torch, as Miss Liberty. Uncle Sam is husband John Bromfield. Stars compete for best costumes

Esther and Ben Gage show George Jessel, a venerable emcee, a menu from their new restaurant

Joan Leslie, as a cover girl, gave Photoplay top billing. Richard Long, dressed as a convict, was Joan’s escort at the masquerade

Believe it or not, that’s Betty Hutton as bearded cowpoke of “Annie Get Your Gun,” with Ted Briskin

 

It is a quote. PHOTOPLAY MAGAZINE JANUARY 1950