(1) Legendary actor Dustin Hoffman narrates 'American Voices: Spirit of Revolution' at the new $45 million Eli and Broad Stage at Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center during its soft opening on Sunday, August 10, 2008. The original work explores the drive for innovation behind our Constitution and for a maverick conception of music that could have only happened in America. (2) James Cromwell portraying James Madison in  a scene with Dustin Hoffman on the  Broad Stage. The stage reading included some of Hollywood's finest actors such as: Dustin Hoffman, James Cromwell, Annette Bening, Rosario Dawson, Abdoulaye N'Gom, Richard Schiff, Elisa Bocanegra, Nate Parker, Teal Sherer, Ben Acland, Michele B. Chan, Wade Contreras and Vanessa Villanueva. The Broad Stage combines the intimacy of a small theater with the acoustics and staging of a grand hall. Built with a variable proscenium and a stage comparable to theaters four times the size, The Broad Stage was designed by Santa Monica architect Renzo Zecchetto.  Inspired by the intimacy of Italy's "horseshoe" opera houses, the new theater allows eye contact with the actors, musicians and dancers from any seat in the house. The Broad is planning an ambitious season, including theatre, film, music and dance, as well as a comprehensive arts education program.  Local residents can experience master classes, workshops,  a lecture demonstration, and open, rehearsals with internationally renowne artists.  An inaugural gala featuring Barbara Cook is scheduled for September 20. For more information visit thebroadstage.com