500 celeb spotting

Celeb spotting is kind of a human catch-and-release game. Seeing a familiar TV or film face, grabbing a photo, maybe scoring an autograph–all are signs of…what? I’m not sure. It’s not like seeing talented folks actually exhibiting their talent. It’s seeing them, well, just being. 

But when they seem to be acting pretty cool in “real life,” it’s easier to like them the next time you see them “on.” Plus, it’s fun and, in May in Indy, adds another level of pleasure to the Greatest Spectacle in etc.

So here are some shots* from Saturday evening outside the Playboy party at the Conrad. That’s David Leterman up top, of course. Next is Derek Hough from “Dancing with the Stars.” Kate Flannery took time off from the set of “The Office.” And the suave guy at the bottom is Gilles Marini, also from “Dancing with the Stars.” I’m not including any of the bunny shots because, well, contrary to what the guys behind me — the ones who brought centerfolds for autographing — may define it, I’m a little tougher in my definition of “celebrity.”

Oh, and for the record, David Letterman wasn’t going to the party, he was just leaving the hotel. But he graciously took some time to sign autographs and answer fan questions.

Speaking of the 500, the Phoenix Theatre’s racing spoof “The Zippers of Zoomerville” sold out this weekend. Nice to see some local arts fallout from the race.

Your thoughts?

*photos by Cindy Harry