An iconic intersection in Silver Lake has recently been designated as historic due to its connection with the classic 1932 film, The Music Box, starring Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. The City Council has unanimously voted to name the intersection of Vendome Street and Del Monte Drive as the “1932 site of the ‘The Music Box’ Starring Laurel and Hardy.”
Laurel and Hardy received an Academy Award for Best Short Comedy for their work in The Music Box, which was famously filmed on the Music Box Steps in Silver Lake. The film revolves around the comedic duo’s struggles to deliver a large piano to a house at the top of the steps, culminating in a surprise ending that has delighted audiences for generations.
The Music Box Steps have become a pilgrimage site for fans of Laurel and Hardy from all around the world. These fans gather to pay homage to the comedic genius of the duo and to relive the iconic scenes from the film that were shot on the historic steps.
L.A. City Councilman Hugo Soto-Martínez expressed pride in recognizing the significance of the Music Box Steps and their contribution to the cultural heritage of Silver Lake. He highlighted the importance of preserving such landmarks that form an integral part of the city’s entertainment industry history.
The Silver Lake Improvement Association organizes an annual “Music Box Steps Day Festival” at Laurel and Hardy Park, located across the street from the Music Box Steps. This festival serves as a celebration of the legacy of Laurel and Hardy, attracting fans and cinephiles to come together and honor the iconic duo’s contribution to the world of cinema.
The historical designation of the intersection of Vendome Street and Del Monte Drive as the “1932 site of the ‘The Music Box’ Starring Laurel and Hardy” is a testament to the enduring influence of the comedic duo and their timeless work. The Music Box Steps stand as a physical reminder of the magic created by Laurel and Hardy, making Silver Lake a significant destination for fans and film enthusiasts alike.