Blab Entertainment
Solo Performance I Want Joan Crawfords Oscar Opens at AMT Theater in New York
When an accountant in Abu Dhabi receives a newspaper clipping about a Hollywood legend’s Oscar, he writes a one‑man show that turns a quiet career into a stage debut.
On July 9, 2026, the AMT Theater on Manhattan’s 45th Street welcomed its newest benefit production, I Want Joan Crawford’s Oscar. The play was written and performed by Craig Horsley, an accountant with no prior stage or film experience, who decided to use the theater’s event to raise funds for its programming.
The story begins in 1993, when Horsley was working in Abu Dhabi. A clipping from Liz Smith’s Daily News column arrived in the mail, reporting that the estate of Hollywood icon Joan Crawford was auctioning her Academy Award. Horsley, who had never appeared on stage or in a film, saw the opportunity to acquire the coveted statue. Rather than wait for a career that would never materialize, he resolved to buy the Oscar.
Horsley’s solo narrative blends humor, nostalgia, and a commentary on celebrity culture. The character reflects on the absurdity of fame and the lengths a person might go to obtain a symbol of validation. The show is described as both suspenseful and self‑deprecating.
Vincent Scott directed the premiere. His résumé includes the world premiere of Lori Brown Mirabal’s Charmed Life: From Soul Singing to Opera Star at Urban Stages, as well as What Happened to The Dollar, Good Corporate Citizen, and Accentuate the Positive (The Johnny Mercer Story). He has worked as an assistant director on Will Snider’s Death of a Driver and Idris Goodwin’s Bars and Measures. Based in New York, Scott has directed projects in Los Angeles, Chicago, London, and Dublin.
The AMT Theater, located at 345 West 45th Street, has hosted a variety of productions since 1997. Its current season includes the Listies comedy duo and other new works. The I Want Joan Crawford’s Oscar benefit is part of the theater’s ongoing effort to support its programming and community outreach.
Joan Crawford’s Oscar was awarded to her in 1945 for her performance in Mildred Pierce. The award was later sold by her estate, and the auction was reported in the early 1990s. The bronze statuette of a knight is the most recognizable symbol of the Academy Awards.
The show’s opening night was scheduled for 7 p.m. on July 9, 2026. Tickets were made available through the AMT Theater’s website and local ticket vendors. The event is expected to draw theatergoers interested in a unique blend of comedy and biographical storytelling.
The production team has not released a detailed synopsis beyond the general premise. However, the narrative is framed around Horsley’s journey from accountant to Oscar buyer, exploring themes of ambition, identity, and the allure of Hollywood legacy.
The benefit nature of the event means that proceeds will support the AMT Theater’s programming and maintenance. The theater’s website lists the event as part of its community outreach calendar.
I Want Joan Crawford’s Oscar is the first in a series of new works scheduled for the summer season. No additional dates or touring plans have been announced.
In summary, I Want Joan Crawford’s Oscar offers a comedic, personal look at the desire for a Hollywood icon’s award. The production, directed by Vincent Scott and performed by Craig Horsley, debuted on July 9 at the AMT Theater in New York, with proceeds benefiting the theater.
On July 9, 2026, the AMT Theater on Manhattan’s 45th Street welcomed its newest benefit production, I Want Joan Crawford’s Oscar. The play was written and performed by Craig Horsley, an accountant with no prior stage or film experience, who decided to use the theater’s event to raise funds for its programming.
The story begins in 1993, when Horsley was working in Abu Dhabi. A clipping from Liz Smith’s Daily News column arrived in the mail, reporting that the estate of Hollywood icon Joan Crawford was auctioning her Academy Award. Horsley, who had never appeared on stage or in a film, saw the opportunity to acquire the coveted statue. Rather than wait for a career that would never materialize, he resolved to buy the Oscar.
Horsley’s solo narrative blends humor, nostalgia, and a commentary on celebrity culture. The character reflects on the absurdity of fame and the lengths a person might go to obtain a symbol of validation. The show is described as both suspenseful and self‑deprecating.
Vincent Scott directed the premiere. His résumé includes the world premiere of Lori Brown Mirabal’s Charmed Life: From Soul Singing to Opera Star at Urban Stages, as well as What Happened to The Dollar, Good Corporate Citizen, and Accentuate the Positive (The Johnny Mercer Story). He has worked as an assistant director on Will Snider’s Death of a Driver and Idris Goodwin’s Bars and Measures. Based in New York, Scott has directed projects in Los Angeles, Chicago, London, and Dublin.
The AMT Theater, located at 345 West 45th Street, has hosted a variety of productions since 1997. Its current season includes the Listies comedy duo and other new works. The I Want Joan Crawford’s Oscar benefit is part of the theater’s ongoing effort to support its programming and community outreach.
Joan Crawford’s Oscar was awarded to her in 1945 for her performance in Mildred Pierce. The award was later sold by her estate, and the auction was reported in the early 1990s. The bronze statuette of a knight is the most recognizable symbol of the Academy Awards.
The show’s opening night was scheduled for 7 p.m. on July 9, 2026. Tickets were made available through the AMT Theater’s website and local ticket vendors. The event is expected to draw theatergoers interested in a unique blend of comedy and biographical storytelling.
The production team has not released a detailed synopsis beyond the general premise. However, the narrative is framed around Horsley’s journey from accountant to Oscar buyer, exploring themes of ambition, identity, and the allure of Hollywood legacy.
The benefit nature of the event means that proceeds will support the AMT Theater’s programming and maintenance. The theater’s website lists the event as part of its community outreach calendar.
I Want Joan Crawford’s Oscar is the first in a series of new works scheduled for the summer season. No additional dates or touring plans have been announced.
In summary, I Want Joan Crawford’s Oscar offers a comedic, personal look at the desire for a Hollywood icon’s award. The production, directed by Vincent Scott and performed by Craig Horsley, debuted on July 9 at the AMT Theater in New York, with proceeds benefiting the theater.
