CHRISTINE BARANSKI to Conclude Lesher Speaker Series

CHRISTINE BARANSKI,an Emmy and two-time Tony award-winning actress and singer,will be featured in the eighth and final installment of this year’s Lesher Foundation’s Newsmakers: Lesher Speaker Series at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek on Tuesday,Oct. 28.

Baranski, best known for her roles as diane Lockhart in “The Good Wife,” its spinoff series, “The Good Fight,” and her guest role as Dr. Beverly Hofstadter in “The Big bang theory,” is expected to discuss her career, her entry into the entertainment industry, and her advocacy for female empowerment.

Baranski replaces actress Laura Linney, who was originally scheduled for the series finale but became unavailable due to a new acting commitment in London.

As with other events in the speaker series, Baranski’s appearance will highlight a local nonprofit, raising awareness and fostering community connection. the organization associated with Baranski’s event is the Diablo Regional Arts Association, a nonprofit partner of the Lesher Center of the Arts.

The DRAA raises funds to support the Lesher Center for the Arts and provides arts outreach programs to over 65,000 East Bay students and teachers. The nonprofit also produces the Headliners Series, featuring performers from comedy, dance, theater, and world music.

Series producer Michael White believes Baranski is a fitting choice to conclude the Newsmakers’ 20th anniversary speaker series, citing her diverse experience and talent in the arts. Her talk will be followed by a Q&A session moderated by Heather Holmes,a news anchor for KTVU Fox Channel 2.

“Christine is an entertainment icon,” White said.

A 1974 Bachelor of Fine Arts graduate of The Juilliard School in New York City, Baranski received her breakthrough role in the Broadway comedy “The Real Thing,” earning her the 1984 Tony Award for best featured actress in a play.

Baranski went on to earn her second