Sam Nicholson's Mediterranean villa in Pasadena was the setting for the second year for the annual benefit concert for Grace Center.

More than 200 guests turned out for the glamorous Casablanca-themed evening honoring actress Jane Kaczmarek and her husband, actor Bradley Whitford, for their community activism. The San Marino couple has supported several local philanthropies including the center, a Pasadena-based sanctuary for victims of domestic violence.

Established 11 years ago by Kitty Hall, Grace Center is now an affiliate of Five Acres, the 119-year-old child and family services agency that serves abused, neglected and at-risk children. Jane is also the founder of the Clothes Off Our Back Foundation, which auctions celebrity award-show finery to benefit children's charities.

Nicholson, who co-chaired the event along with Marilyn and John Wells and Diane Reed, noted that his shopping spree during a recent trip to Morocco was the inspiration for this year's event. It raised more than $145,000 for the center's programs.

Tony-award winning singer/actress Kristin Chenoweth headlined the concert, which also featured British thrush Julia Fordham.

Fordham nearly stole the show when she


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