THE FRONT ROW

Q&A WITH AWT BOARD MEMBER JULIA BEST WARNER

AWT - Hi Julia! Thank you for your work on the Anthony Wayne Theater Board. We are thrilled that you are part of the project. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

JULIA - I am a native of the Philadelphia area. I grew up in Villanova and went to school through the Radnor Township School District before moving across the state to pursue my BFA in theater performance at Point Park University in Pittsburgh. I’ve lived in Pittsburgh, New York, Los Angeles and now I’m happy to say I call Philadelphia home again.

AWT - What are you up to now?

JULIA - My current day to day is being a mother to two beautiful children! I could end there, but I’m also an actress when the right role comes around. I most recently had the incredible honor of filming Michael Cera’s directorial debut “Love Is Not the Answer” starring Pamela Anderson. I’m also a producer when the project is right and I’m able to work with people I respect and can learn from.

AWT - What is your AWT memory?

JULIA - Anthony Wayne Theater and I go way back. I have too many memories to share here, but I’ll pick my top 2.

I saw my first ever film at Anthony Wayne. My parents took us to see “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” in 1996. I remember being absolutely enthralled with the size of the screen! Hearing that soundtrack in surround sound got me hooked on movie theaters.

Lastly, I know I share this memory with many people, my first date was at the Anthony Wayne Theater. We saw “She’s The Man” starring Amanda Bynes in 2006. (I understand I am currently cementing my millennial status). I wore a dress and my dad took a photo of us in our foyer before we drove to the film. I pretended to be embarrassed, but secretly I loved it. My date’s older brother drove us there and home. There is a moment in the film where Amanda’s character is asked about her favorite cheese. The only time we interacted during the entire date was when he leaned over and asked, “What’s your favorite kind of cheese?” I froze, maybe expecting something else. I said Gouda, just like Amanda. It’s actually sharp cheddar. Ha! That might be my favorite AWT memory.

AWT - What is your wish for the future of the theater?

JULIA - I see AWT reinventing and revitalizing what it means to come together as a community. I see it as a shared space where people can enjoy film, live performances, and each other’s company. Where you can host a birthday party or a special event. Where we can gather and engage in conversation about art that moves us. Where people can have their first date or their 100th date.

AWT - What has been the best moment so far with your involvement in the project?

For me the best moment so far has been touring the old theater and having all of my memories flood back. I’ve also loved being able to meet and collaborate with Executive Director Jennifer L. Carlson, Director of Development Michelle Johnson, and the incredible board members who are so dedicated to bringing this special place back to life.

AWT - And obviously, favorite movie?

JULIA - “Clue” in 1985 with one of my all-time favorite actresses, Madeline Kahn.