Los Angeles readies itself to host the 94th Academy Awards. The ceremony returns to the Dolby Theatre on March 27, hosted by Amy Schumer, Wanda Sykes, and Regina Hall.
The Oscars Return to the Dolby Theatre
This year’s ceremony marks a return to the Dolby. Due to pandemic restrictions, the 2021 Academy Awards took place at Downtown LA’s Union Station. Now, workers have begun rolling out the red carpet on Hollywood Boulevard. Crews blocked off the road between Highland Avenue and Orange Drive. Inside the Dolby, carpenters install walls, curtains, and giant letters that spell out “Oscar.” Other workers scramble to add last-minute touches to the enormous Oscar statues that will decorate the grounds. Tourists from around the world have flocked to the location to get a peek at what’s to come.
The Governors Ball
Immediately following the ceremony, the official post-Oscar party takes place. Called the Governors Ball, it features lavish gifts, decadent meals, and room for all the stars to mingle. In 2021, producers canceled the celebration because of the pandemic. This year, it returns. Renowned chef Wolfgang Puck also returns to provide the meals. He’s teaming up with Ghetto Gastro, a Bronx-based group of chefs. The menu reportedly includes smoked salmon, spicy tuna cones, and chocolate bark.
Hosts of the 94th Academy Awards
For the first time since 2011, the Oscars will have multiple hosts. The past three ceremonies have gone without emcees entirely. Producers stated that they chose Schumer, Sykes, and Hall because they each bring something unique and special to the show. Schumer is best known for “Inside Amy Schumer.” Sykes has a long and accomplished background as a stand-up comedian, writer, and actress. Regina Hall is an award-winning actress who has starred in various TV shows and movies like “Girls Trip.”
The Oscars Controversy
Every year, the Academy Awards ceremony creates some new controversy. The 94th annual event is no exception. Actress Rachel Zegler wasn’t invited to the show — something she expressed disappointment about on social media. The fan uproar was swift, given that Zegler starred in “Westside Story,” a nominee for Best Picture. The Academy stepped in to correct the issue. The actress will now be one of the presenters.
