News Summary
Wallis Annenberg, notable philanthropist and arts supporter, has passed away, profoundly impacting Beverly Hills. Her contributions led to the establishment of The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, fostering inclusivity and creativity within the arts community.
Beverly Hills – Wallis Annenberg, a prominent philanthropist and supporter of the arts, has passed away, leaving a profound impact on the community and the cultural landscape of Beverly Hills. Annenberg was instrumental in the development of The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, contributing over $75 million through her Annenberg Foundation to ensure the institution’s success and sustainability.
The Wallis, which transformed the historic 1934 Beverly Hills Post Office into a center for arts and culture, opened its doors in 2013. Since that time, the venue has hosted nearly 500 performances, showcasing a diverse range of programming that has drawn audiences from various backgrounds. The facility features impressive spaces, including the 500-seat Bram Goldsmith Theater, Lovelace Studio Theater, and GRoW @ The Wallis, an arts education space dedicated to fostering creativity among young artists.
The arts community has expressed deep sorrow at Annenberg’s passing. Robert van Leer, the Executive Director and CEO of The Wallis, noted her vision of the arts as a unifying force that brings people together. The Wallis has committed to honoring her legacy by promoting diverse voices and supporting emerging artists and audiences, reflecting Annenberg’s belief in the importance of inclusivity within the arts.
Annenberg’s contributions extended beyond the performing arts. She was well-known for her support of various philanthropic initiatives, including wildfire relief efforts. On April 30, 2025, The Wallis hosted “The Wallis Delivers: An Evening to Benefit Wildfire Recovery,” which successfully raised over $1.3 million for wildfire victims, showcasing her commitment to community support and resilience.
Daphna Nazarian, Board Chair of The Wallis, lauded Annenberg for her extraordinary generosity and the indelible mark she left on the cultural landscape. Nazarian emphasized that Annenberg’s legacy is characterized by uplifting communities, supporting artists, and nurturing a space where creativity can flourish.
The Wallis Annenberg Center has become a beacon of the arts in Beverly Hills, known for its eclectic programming that attracts a wide array of performers and audiences alike. Annenberg’s vision helped to create not just a venue but a cultural hub where the arts can thrive and evolve. Her support has also facilitated education programs aimed at allowing students and community members to engage with the arts in meaningful ways.
Through her extensive philanthropic work, Annenberg has influenced not just local institutions but various arts initiatives across multiple platforms. Her dedication to supporting the arts has left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire current and future generations of artists, audiences, and community members.
Wallis Annenberg’s life and work remind us of the vital role the arts play in society and the importance of supporting these avenues of expression. As the community mourns her loss, it also celebrates the life devoted to enriching the cultural fabric of Beverly Hills and beyond.
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Author: STAFF HERE BEVERLY HILLS
The Beverly Hills Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREBeverlyHills.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance, the Beverly Hills artSHOW, Concerts on Canon, and holiday celebrations throughout the city. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce and Visit Beverly Hills, plus leading businesses in luxury fashion, hospitality, and entertainment that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERECostaMesa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
