Seth Rogen Donates Handmade Vase For Avon Theatre Auction

STAMFORD, CT — Seth Rogen has long been known as a successful filmmaker, comedian and actor, starring in many hit movies like "Pineapple Express", "Superbad", "Knocked Up", and "This Is The End".

But Rogen is also a dedicated philanthropist, and now even an accomplished potter.

Recently, Rogen donated a handmade, ceramic vase to the historic and iconic Avon Theatre Film Center in Stamford for its virtual auction, with all proceeds going to benefit the general operations of the theatre, the AvonCollege Scholarship Awards and the facility's Black Lens film series.

Bidding for the auction ends on Nov. 15, and the starting bid for the vase is $2,500.

The vase stands at six inches tall and has a three-dimensional feel to it thanks to its multi-colored design. There is also a crackled glaze finish on the top, and on the bottom, the piece is simply signed "Seth".

Rogen rarely sells his artwork, and instead gives his pieces to family and friends, said Louisa Greene, Director of Development and Marketing for the Avon Theatre Film Center. A native of Vancouver, Rogen donated a small ceramic sculpture earlier this year in June to the Vancouver Art Gallery. The sculpture fetched $10,000.

He and his wife Lauren Miller Rogen help lead the Hilarity For Charity organization (HFC), which is headquartered in Stamford. HFC is a national no-profit devoted to Alzheimer's research, education and support for families. Rogen, who has family in Stamford, was visiting recently.

Carol Cohen, Vice President of the Avon Theatre Board, had dinner with him, and the subject of his artwork came up. Rogen decided to lend a helping hand.

"We're very honored, and we're honored because of his commitment to cinema and movie theaters. We've all been challenged during the pandemic, and streaming is very popular. It's a challenge to get people to come back inside movie theaters," Greene added. "Movie theaters are a cultural hub, particularly The Avon. It's independent and it's been there since 1939 and we want to keep the doors open. Having his name and his generous thought means a lot to us."

After a rough period because of the pandemic, Greene said there has been an uptick in people coming back to in-person showings recently as COVID-19 cases have improved.

Last weekend, the theatre grossed more money with the openings of "Spencer" and "The French Dispatch" than any other cinema in the state, Greene said.

"Stamford and the greater Stamford area supports The Avon. They want us to succeed. And they are coming back," Greene said, noting the opening of the movie highly-anticipated "Belfast" film opening Nov. 12.

The Avon is screening new releases seven days per week and is following state COVID-19 safety protocols. The theatre is requiring masks and proof of vaccination.

Bidders have the opportunity to purchase items instantly by selecting the WIN IT NOW option. Local delivery is available. Gift certificates can also be sent electronically.

Highlights of the auction include:

• Ocean House Getaway to Watch Hill, RI - two-Night Stay in the stunning two-story Tower Suite with three bedrooms and three bathrooms, available November 2021 thru April 2022 and November – December 2022
• Mets Baseball Sports Memorabilia, including signed baseball from Stamford baseball legends Bobby Valentine and Frank Branca
• SoundWaters Schooner Cocktail Cruise for up to 40 Guests
• Private Screening at the Avon Theatre for up to 50 guests, including popcorn and soda
• MovieSac Lounge Chair from LoveSac
• Day trip to Tamarack Preserve in Millbrook, NY - One round of Sporting Clays for Four guests followed by gourmet lunch at the Clubhouse
• Cocktail Cruise on the beautiful yacht, Bellatrix, with a private Captain from Old Greenwich Harbor on the L.I. Sound for up to six guests
• Maison D’Alexandre Day of Beauty in Greenwich, including hair and make-up
• The Stanwich Club - Round of Golf and Lunch for three guests
• Wine from the private cellars of Avon Patrons, including vintages from France and Napa Valley, CA
• Peter Atkins and Associates, Artisans in the Garden, Christmas Décor for your home
• Spa, retail and dining gift certificates

Check out the Avon Auction 2021 catalogue here.