Silver Lake, a neighborhood with a rich history in the film industry, has recently made a significant move to commemorate its connection to Hollywood legends Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. The intersection of Vendome Street and Del Monte Drive has been designated as the “1932 site of the ‘The Music Box’ Starring Laurel and Hardy” by the City Council. This decision comes in recognition of the classic 1932 film “The Music Box,” which won an Academy Award for short comedy and was filmed on the iconic Music Box Steps in Silver Lake.
The film’s premise is simple yet iconic; Laurel and Hardy’s characters are tasked with delivering a large piano to a house situated at the top of the famous steps. The comedic duo’s misadventures culminate in a surprise ending that has delighted audiences for generations. The Music Box Steps have become a pilgrimage site for fans from all over the world, highlighting the cultural significance of this historic location.
L.A. City Councilman Hugo Soto-Martínez expressed pride in acknowledging the intersection’s historical significance, emphasizing Silver Lake’s status as a hub of historic outdoor staircases that contribute to the neighborhood’s diverse cultural landscape. The city’s recognition of the site as a landmark in the entertainment industry underscores its importance in preserving Hollywood history for future generations.
The Music Box Steps already bear a plaque commemorating the film’s filming location, a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Hollywood Heritage Museum, The Society of Operating Cameramen, and The Silver Lake Improvement Association. To further celebrate this cultural heritage, the Silver Lake Improvement Association will host an annual “Music Box Steps Day Festival” at Laurel and Hardy Park, located across the street from the iconic steps.
Silver Lake’s decision to honor the legacy of Laurel and Hardy through the recognition of the “1932 site of the ‘The Music Box'” serves as a testament to the neighborhood’s enduring connection to Hollywood history. By celebrating and preserving iconic filming locations, communities like Silver Lake continue to pay homage to the pioneers of the entertainment industry and ensure that their legacy lives on for future generations to appreciate.