Venice High is home to several movies and TV shows; most notably Rydell High from Grease. American History X, Matchstick Men, A Nightmare on Elm Street, and Heathers were shot here. Britney Spears’ “Baby One More Time” was filmed here as was Glee and many other TV shows, videos, etc.
Speaking of Grease, the opening shot was of the “Myrna Loy” statue (the statue in the center). According to the plaque… “The original state “Inspiration” was unveiled on this site in 1922 where it became the symbol of Venice High School and the Venice community. Sculptor Harry Weinbrenner, Art Department Chariman, used a shy young student, Myna Williams, as his model. With the start of her motion picture career, this shy student later became knows as Myrna Loy. The statue was repaired by William Van Orden twice during the 1980’s and has been exhibited in this location until its deterioration required removal in 2000. This re-creation was completed through the generosity and hard work of Peter Schwab ’61, Laura Ferre ’76, the Venice High Alumni Association, countless VHS Alumni and the Venice community. This beautiful re-creation has been sculpted by Ernest Shelton. Dedicated and Celebrated April 10, 2010.”
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