MOM AT THE MOVIES: Bus Stop

MOM AT THE MOVIES: The Films of Eileen Heckart

Hosted by her son, Luke Yankee

Character actress. Scene stealer. Oscar, Emmy, Tony and Golden Globe winner. Eileen Heckart built a five-decade career on nuance, timing, and an unerring instinct for truth — whether playing a sharp-tongued mother, a confidante, or a woman with secrets of her own. Hosted by her son, Luke Yankee, this retrospective offers an intimate portrait of a consummate performer whose fifty-year career bridged film, television and theatre. 

Make it a full evening at the Palm Springs Cultural Center — come early for Foodie Fridays (5–8 PM) and enjoy local bites and live music. Each screening includes a 6PM pre-show of rare television appearances and commercials, followed by the main feature at 7PM on the Historic Camelot Theatre’s big screen. A witty, heartfelt journey through Hollywood’s golden decades — seen through the eyes of her son as he celebrates the mom, the wife, and the actress who never missed her mark.

BUS STOP (1956)

Starring Marilyn Monroe, Don Murray, Eileen Heckart & Arthur O’Connell | Dir. Joshua Logan

Marilyn Monroe shines as a small-town saloon singer pursued by a naïve cowboy, but it’s the surrounding ensemble that gives the film its lasting warmth.

As the protective diner waitress, Heckart lends Monroe’s performance grounding — and a hint of the maternal honesty that would define her later roles.

LUKE YANKEE is an award-winning playwright, director, producer, actor and author of the critically acclaimed memoir, Just Outside the Spotlight: Growing Up with Eileen Heckart. After each screening, Mr. Yankee will share personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories about the making of these classic films. He will also have personally autographed copies of his book available for purchase.

PRE-ORDER DRINK SPECIAL | Save $4

Elevate your movie night and select one of our classic cocktails! We offer a full range of fine wines, craft beers, and premium well drinks. Pre-order on Eventbrite and save $4 on two drinks with our exclusive pre-show drink special. Sip, relax, and enhance your cinematic experience with a touch of sophistication.