Three decades ago, the creative team of General Hospital, led by Wendy Riche, executive producer, and head writer Claire Labine, introduced the Nurses’ Ball to daytime television. Hosted by Lucy Coe, portrayed by Lynn Herring, the event united the residents of Port Charles as they showcased their musical talents for a charitable cause.
While other daytime dramas had touched on the topic of AIDS/HIV before, starting with nurse Noreen Donovan on Loving, General Hospital took a different approach by incorporating the Nurses’ Ball into an ongoing storyline. A year after the inaugural Nurses’ Ball in 1994, the show explored a powerful narrative when Stone (played by Michael Sutton) succumbed to AIDS, and Robin (Kimberly McCullough) was diagnosed with HIV.
TV Insider spoke with Scott Barton, the show’s former publicist, who had previously collaborated with Elizabeth Taylor (as Helena Cassadine) in 1985 at the Commitment to Life fundraiser for AIDS Project Los Angeles (APLA). He shared insights on the origin of the Nurses’ Ball, its impact, and lasting legacy.
How did the concept for General Hospital to incorporate a fundraiser within the show to raise awareness and support research for AIDS/HIV originate?
Scott Barton: I believe it was Claire’s idea, following actor Neil Tadken’s proposal for the Day of Compassion held annually from 1993 to 1999 on June 21 to honor individuals battling AIDS or HIV. During a meeting, I suggested that Bobbie (played by Jacklyn Zeman), a nurse, could wear the red ribbon on-air and that it could be referenced. Bobbie embraced the idea, which sparked creativity among the costume team, leading to extravagant ball gowns and costumes. The cast embraced the initiative when many felt helpless amidst the AIDS crisis.
It snowballed from there, inspiring Bob Miller and Steve Howard to unleash their creativity. It was a time when everyone felt a sense of contribution to the cause.
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All My Children had explored an AIDS storyline with Ellen Wheeler (as Cindy), and As the World Turns had the AIDS Ball, but the Nurses’ Ball became a signature element of General Hospital.
Through numerous discussions with Claire, I suggested bringing Ryan White’s mother, Jeanne, on the show as herself. This personal touch added depth to the event. The entire team at General Hospital wholeheartedly supported this initiative.
The talent showcase within the show provided actors with opportunities to display their skills. We knew Wally Kurth (Ned) was a talented singer, and Stuart Damon (as Alan) had portrayed Prince Charming in Cinderella. Other actors also excelled during the Nurses’ Ball.
We were aware of the singing abilities in the cast. Brad Maule (as Tony) had a successful stage musical career. What surprised me was discovering hidden talents in the entire cast. Even John Beradino (as Steve), a former baseball player, recited “Casey at the Bat” during the event. Actors approached Claire, showcasing their talents, and Wendy embraced these contributions.
Can you elaborate on Lee Mathis and his portrayal of Jon Hanley on the show?
Lee had placed an ad in Variety seeking work to maintain his health benefits. Gwen Hillier from the show’s casting department noticed it and recommended him. I was familiar with Lee’s situation and believed he would be a great fit for the role of Jon Hanley. The show crafted a character for him, providing him with a renewed purpose, financial stability, and confidence.
I recall the day Lee filmed his speech at the Nurses’ Ball. He was nervous, and I reassured him, emphasizing the importance of his performance to honor departed friends. His poignant delivery resonated with the cast and viewers, leading to additional episodes for his character. I was delighted when the show paid tribute to him after his passing, giving him national recognition for his contributions.
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This storyline humanized Lucy (portrayed by Lynn Herring) in a unique manner, revealing a compassionate side previously unseen.
Lucy’s compassion shone through at the Nurses’ Ball, showcasing a different facet of her character. Jackie Zeman’s portrayal also exuded a charming elegance throughout the event.
Were there any subtle details that viewers may have overlooked?
Indeed. Bob Miller arranged for a clothing manufacturer to donate tuxedo shirts for the men. These shirts featured tiny stopwatches woven into the fabric with the message “Stop AIDS” underneath.
Additionally, Robin and Stone performed a rendition of Romeo and Juliet at the first Nurses Ball.
The subsequent year saw Stone’s AIDS-related demise, and Robin’s HIV diagnosis. What were your thoughts on Robin testing positive?
I strongly advocated for it. I emphasized the importance of Robin testing positive due to her history with Stone and unprotected intimacy. I believed it was crucial for the storyline’s credibility and relevance to the ongoing crisis. By having Robin not succumb but instead emerge as a leader in navigating life with HIV, the show broke new ground, shedding light on the reality of living with the virus.
After a hiatus, Frank Valentini, executive producer, and head writer Ron Carlivati revived the Nurses’ Ball in 2013. What was your reaction to this decision?
I have met Frank and admire his clarity of vision. Bringing back the Nurses’ Ball was a smart move for the show, highlighting the continuity of daytime drama and characters within a hospital setting. The event also served as a meaningful fundraiser, showcasing new facets of the characters and actors.
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Having worked with Elizabeth Taylor, was there a plan for her to return to the show as Helena Cassadine during the Nurses’ Ball? Her appearance at Luke and Laura’s wedding in 1981 was iconic.
There was a close call.
Really?
Very close. It was almost scheduled, but due to unforeseen circumstances, it fell through. Although it was tentatively set for the end of the day, scheduling conflicts prevented her appearance. Elizabeth was genuinely interested in participating and had a soft spot for the character and the show.
What other authentic touches did you introduce to the Nurses’ Ball?
I arranged for panels from the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt to serve as a backdrop for the event. Installing them was a meticulous process similar to origami in reverse, executed overnight for the next day’s shoot. Witnessing the cast’s reaction to the quilt added layers of empathy, compassion, and authenticity to the event. I am grateful to the entire General Hospital team for embracing these meaningful additions.
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