Dick Van Dyke Officially Returning Home Next Month
Dick Van Dyke attends the 29th Annual Gypsy Awards Luncheon held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Sunday, April 24, 2016, in Beverly Hills, Calif. John Salangsang/Invision/Associated Press
Dick Van Dyke is officially returning home. Events honoring the 90-year old actor and Danville native June 24 will coincide with the launch of a fundraiser to restore his childhood home. "It is with great anticipation that I return to my hometown to officially launch the Dick Van Dyke Foundation with the good folks who gave me my own launch so many years ago," he said in a statement released by the mayor's office.
"Who knew Rob Petrie was in there somewhere. Back then, we thought Danville was the center of the universe. I still do. "
Earlier this week, Todd Regan of the Dick Van Dyke Foundation told the Danville Commercial-News that a June 26 date had already been set for for Van Dyke to perform in the Chicago suburb of Downers Grove, and was working to confirm a Danville date.
Events include a 6 p.m. musical tribute inside Danville High School's Dick Van Dyke Auditorium, with the school's show choir performing songs from his career, and an appearance by Van Dyke. Tickets are $5.
At 7:30 that evening, a reception honoring Van Dyke will be held at the Harrison Park Clubhouse. Tickets are $100 per person.
Tickets for both events go on sale June 1st. All proceeds benefit the Dick Van Dyke Foundation, which will preserve the home, and provide scholarhips for youth seeking a career in the entertainment field.