The humorous and talented Carole Machiz brings a touch of Hollywood to her many nonprofit endeavors in the Phoenix area. She admits “I have been stage struck since day one, and have had a sense of humor all my life! So it has always been one of my dreams to be in a Broadway musical.” It’s natural then that Carole particularly enjoys her support of the Phoenix Theatre, performing onstage for three years in their annual Follies. She has also recently appeared in a segment of the hugely popular television series “Desperate Housewives”. Carole describes the experience, “It was a walk-on part, but they treated me like royalty.”
The Phoenix Theatre began 85 years ago as a ‘Little Theatre’. Through the years it has increased in stature, and has given many notables their entrée into stardom. Carole particularly mentions the producing artistic director of the Phoenix Theatre, Michael Barnard, as a major talent, and Steven Spielberg and Doris Roberts who got their start in Phoenix.
Carole and her husband, Bob Machiz, are also major supporters of the Phoenix Suns Charities. The Heart Ball committee sponsors an impressive gala every year in November. This gala raises more funds than any other similar event. Additionally, Fight Night, which generates much needed funds for Parkinson’s Research, is a highly anticipated affair every year. Many celebrities participate, including Muhammad Ali, of course, sponsor of the contest. In previous years, many celebrities in various aspects of the entertainment world have been major supporters of Fight Night.
“My husband Bob and I are avid supporters and fans of the Suns! We won’t miss a game unless it is absolutely necessary. We have been the main sponsors of Celebrity Fight Night since its inception.”
On a personal level, Carole reveals that she will “do anything for my friends; I will really go overboard when I see a need. But of course my husband Bob is my first priority.” Previously Carole was in the fashion industry in Phoenix, but after marrying Bob has been devoting her energy to all her nonprofit activities.
What Carole appreciates most about the greater Phoenix area is, “it’s truly a big city, but it doesn’t feel crowded like other big cities. It’s very open and beautiful. We have a special way of life here!”
The Phoenix Theatre and the Phoenix Suns basketball are two main passions of Carole’s. But the entire nonprofit community in Arizona benefits from the loyal support patronage and fun-loving attitude of Carole Machiz.
What are your volunteer activities? Heart Ball Committee; Phoenix Suns Charities Board of Directors; Phoenix Theatre Board of Directors; Women of Distinction (Crohns-Colitis Committee); sponsor of the Suns Celebrity Shootout since its beginning 5 years ago. Suns Nite Hoops Division of Suns. Trends Addressing Luncheon, Home Base Committee, Body Positive, Judge for auditions once a year for tryouts for the national anthem for new Suns season; co- chaired auction committee for Suns charity annual event. Phoenix theatre follies sponsor and on the theatre committee last three years.
Which social event is your favorite? Being on stage 3 years for the Phoenix Theatre Follies, (a star is born!!!)
Favorite restaurant? There are a few, but won't say, so we will still get a good table.
Who is your hero and why? My husband Bob, because he still puts up with me after all these years.
Who is the most interesting celebrity you have ever met? Besides myself, Muhammad Ali.
If your life were a movie, whom would you want to play your part? Sandra Bullock, or Robin Williams.
What gives a woman/man style? The ability to not be afraid of change, and the ability to know what suits them the best.
Do you have any Pets? A devilish Siamese, half-lilac, half blue point female, one year old named Mili, who owns us.
When you move, what will your home, tell its next owner about you? That it was very lived in, they loved openness and needed a good window cleaner!
What words describe you best? Full of fun, and has to be in the middle of whatever is happening at the time. A loyal friend, a loving wife, one who never cooks and owns three crock-pots that have never been used!
What words would you like others to use to describe you? A loyal friend and always there for them in time of need, and always right! A great actress (comedy of course).
What was your first job? Selling at I Magnin in San Francisco
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself? Impulsive and a lack of patience.
What is the trait you most deplore in others? Being late and being dishonest.
What is your greatest indulgence? SHOPPING, and yogurt covered raisins.
What is the greatest gift you have ever given and received? A wedding ring from my husband and one to him.
What or who is the greatest love of your life? Bob Machiz.
What is your current state of mind? Blank
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement? Being married for fifteen years and choosing a wonderful guy.
What is your most treasured possession? My teddy bears who sleeps with me.
What is the quality you most like in a man? Sense of humor
What is the quality you most like in a woman? Sense of humor
Favorite books / Writers? Nancy Drew
What one thing would you change about yourself? I would be 39 forever.
What is the best advice you have ever received? Know who you are, and don't let people take advantage of you and always hold your head up high.
Carole - It was a great article - it was nice to learn some very nice things about you.
Barb Felix
21-Apr-06