Hollywood History Takes Center Stage

Steven Caras, Diane Quinn, Scott Eyman (Capehart)

(Press Release) (WEST PALM BEACH, FLA.) —  From studio-era stardom to cultural icon, the remarkable life of Joan Crawford captivated audiences at the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts on February 17. The 2026 ArtSmart Lunch & Learn Series continued with a session exploring the life of one of Hollywood’s most complex icons. Film historian and “New York Times” bestselling biographer Scott Eyman discussed his latest book, “Joan Crawford: A Woman’s Face,” in conversation with author and photographer Steven Caras in the Gimelstob Ballroom of the Cohen Pavilion.

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Blending film history, biography and cultural commentary, the program offered an intimate look at the life and career of legendary actress Joan Crawford. Eyman shared insights revealing the determination, ambition and reinvention that defined Crawford’s rise from poverty to Hollywood stardom.
 
“The Kravis Center views the arts as an essential part of education, from our partnership with the Palm Beach County School District that brings every fifth grader to the theater, to immersive summer experiences through ArtsCamp,” said Diane Quinn, CEO of the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. “ArtSmart Lunch & Learn builds on that foundation by offering adults the opportunity to deepen their understanding of culture, history and creativity. It’s a reflection of our commitment to serving the community as a place for learning across generations.”
 
The program marked the second of three presentations in the Kravis Center’s 2026 Lunch & Learn season, which blends engaging conversation with a refined midday dining experience. The series continues on March 23 with “Tradition Redefined: Designing Through the Decades,” with celebrated interior designer Ellie Cullman of Cullman & Kravis Interiors. It concludes with a recently announced installment on April 20 with “Never Mind the Happy – Showbiz Stories From a Sore Winner,” with renowned American composer, lyricist and “New York Times” best-selling author Marc Shaiman.
 
The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is one of South Florida’s premier performing arts centers located in Downtown West Palm Beach. Since 1992 the Kravis Center has hosted the very best in live entertainment featuring internationally acclaimed artists in music, comedy, dance, Broadway and more. Since opening its doors, the Kravis Center has welcomed millions of students to its comprehensive arts education programs. Students of all ages can participate in a variety of workshops, classes and special events, as well as free and reduced-price tickets to those who might not otherwise have the chance to experience live performances.  For information, please visit kravis.org.
 
Tickets for Lunch & Learn presentations are $135 and include lunch prepared by Lessing’s Hospitality Group at the Kravis Center. The seating is open and doors to the Harris Pre-Function Hall and Gimelstob Ballroom will not open before 11:30 a.m.
 
To purchase tickets, visit www.kravis.org/performance-calendar/lunchandlearn or call the Box Office at 561-832-7469 (561-832-SHOW)