Christine Baranski Wraps Up Lesher Center's Speaker Series with Powerful Message on Presence and Human Connection
The Emmy Award-winning actress wrapped up the 20th annual Lesher Foundation's Newsmakers: Lesher Speaker Series at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts, leaving a lasting impression on the audience. In an era dominated by digital distractions, Baranski emphasized the importance of being present in every aspect of life.
At the event, which was moderated by KTVU Fox 2 anchor Heather Holmes, Baranski shared her decades-long journey in theater and television, from struggling to get into Juilliard due to a slight speech impediment to overcoming the challenges of balancing her career with family responsibilities. She also spoke candidly about the impact of aging on women in Hollywood, where she believes that playing more mature roles helped shape her mindset.
Baranski condemned the airbrushing trend and extreme plastic surgeries, instead advocating for character development, attitude, and inner life. The actress also addressed the rise of AI and technology's presence in the media industry, warning that it feels like "Pandora's box has been unleashed." She expressed concerns about the consequences of this new tech phenomenon.
Despite these challenges, Baranski remained optimistic, predicting a significant comeback for theater and live events. She stressed the importance of protecting humanities and educating young people to be performers who are sensitive as human beings.
The actress concluded her speech by advising the audience to practice presence, paying attention, and finding ways to calm down in a culture of hyperbole. Her powerful message resonated with the audience, emphasizing the need for human connection in an increasingly digital world.
Baranski's appearance marked the end of the Lesher Foundation's Newsmakers: Lesher Speaker Series, which has been running for 20 years. The event has featured prominent speakers and performers who have shared their experiences and insights on various topics, including arts education, social justice, and personal growth.
The Emmy Award-winning actress wrapped up the 20th annual Lesher Foundation's Newsmakers: Lesher Speaker Series at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts, leaving a lasting impression on the audience. In an era dominated by digital distractions, Baranski emphasized the importance of being present in every aspect of life.
At the event, which was moderated by KTVU Fox 2 anchor Heather Holmes, Baranski shared her decades-long journey in theater and television, from struggling to get into Juilliard due to a slight speech impediment to overcoming the challenges of balancing her career with family responsibilities. She also spoke candidly about the impact of aging on women in Hollywood, where she believes that playing more mature roles helped shape her mindset.
Baranski condemned the airbrushing trend and extreme plastic surgeries, instead advocating for character development, attitude, and inner life. The actress also addressed the rise of AI and technology's presence in the media industry, warning that it feels like "Pandora's box has been unleashed." She expressed concerns about the consequences of this new tech phenomenon.
Despite these challenges, Baranski remained optimistic, predicting a significant comeback for theater and live events. She stressed the importance of protecting humanities and educating young people to be performers who are sensitive as human beings.
The actress concluded her speech by advising the audience to practice presence, paying attention, and finding ways to calm down in a culture of hyperbole. Her powerful message resonated with the audience, emphasizing the need for human connection in an increasingly digital world.
Baranski's appearance marked the end of the Lesher Foundation's Newsmakers: Lesher Speaker Series, which has been running for 20 years. The event has featured prominent speakers and performers who have shared their experiences and insights on various topics, including arts education, social justice, and personal growth.