Actor David Ogden Stiers joked about the slimming effect of his tuxedo as he conducted the Grand Rapids (Mich.) Symphony Orchestra.
Stiers, who played the snooty Charles Winchester on the television series "M*A*S*H," is on a national, 15-concert tour to promote the arts. Proceeds from Wednesday night's performance at DeVos Hall were donated to the musicians' pension funds.Stiers peppered the concert with quips and appeals for more government support of the arts.
As for his musical prowess, Stiers told the audience: "Every musician on stage knows that I have no idea what I'm doing up here."
SATURDAY: Salt Lake Trappers' home opener. Jeane Kirkpatrick addresses Cannon's American Values Lecture at Symphony Hall.
SUNDAY: Americans celebrate Father's Day.
For
Friday
June 19
Actress Gena Rowlands 56 Actress Kathleen Turner 38 Singer-dancer-choreographer
Paula Abdul 30 Rock singer Ann Wilson 41