New Life for ‘MASH’

Do you miss Hawkeye, Radar, Trapper and Klinger? What about Hot Lips and Col. Potter?

If the answer is yes--or you even recognize these names--you must be a fan of the 1970s and early ‘80s hit television show “MASH.”

The original series was discontinued 15 years ago, but now you can help bring it back to life, if only for a few hours.

Relive the “MASH” glory days at noon Sunday at Malibu Creek State Park by participating in “MASH Memories,” an event that allows you to portray your favorite character.

By the way, do you know that MASH stands for Mobile Army Surgical Hospital? Most “MASH” fans probably know that, and that the series is considered among the most popular in the history of television.

In 1983, the show’s finale drew 106 million viewers, making it the fifth-most-watched entertainment event, besides Super Bowl games. Even the super-hyped “Seinfeld” finale in May drew fewer--76.3 million.

So the show is worthy of a tribute. The location is ideal because the show was taped at Malibu Creek park during its 11 years, and the original Jeep and ambulance still sit where filming took place.

To participate in “MASH Memories,” meet other loyal fans at the park’s lower paved parking lot by noon. (The event will be held again Sept. 6.)

California state parks interpreter Jim Holt, a big “MASH” fan, will take the group to a nearby area shaded by coast live oak trees.

“We won’t actually do it at the filming site because there’s really no shade there and it’s too long of a walk for some folks,” Holt said.

After assessing the group, he will cast characters and hand out copies of scripts.

Holt came up with the idea after finding the original script from a “MASH” episode among public park files at Malibu Creek headquarters.

He figured he could have a lot of fun with it, but he wanted to share the good times with other fans.

“I really got a kick out of reviewing the script myself,” Holt said. “And I remember seeing that particular episode on TV. It was so great, I just laughed and laughed.”

The script is from a 1981 episode called “Give ‘Em Hell, Hawkeye.”

The show’s central character was irreverent and wise-cracking surgeon Hawkeye Pierce, played by Alan Alda.

It’s no surprise, then, whom most people want to play during these “MASH Memories” events.

“Hawkeye, of course,” Holt said. “Occasionally they’ll want to be Radar or Hot Lips, but Hawkeye is the most popular.”

“MASH” is based on the experiences of Korean War surgeon Richard Hornberger. In 1968, Hornberger wrote the book “MASH,” which later became a movie, then led to the TV series.

Besides the role-playing activity, Holt also talks about the show’s history and offers anecdotes from those who were present during filming.

For example, a wildfire swept through the 8,200-acre park shortly before the 2 1/2-hour season finale was filmed, so there was lots of burned shrubbery in the episode.

There’s also a 45-minute video in the park’s visitor center featuring character interviews and behind-the-scenes footage.

Holt says he’s learned one thing about one of his favorite TV series. “There are a lot of die-hards out there,” he said, smiling.

BE THERE

“MASH Memories,” noon Sunday at Malibu Creek State Park near Calabasas. Take the Ventura Freeway to Las Virgenes Road. Go south on Las Virgenes for about three miles to park entrance. Event is free, but parking is $5. Information: (818) 880-0363.

* Send Jaunts ideas, allowing at least two weeks’ notice, to staff writer Irene Garcia at The Times, 20000 Prairie St., Chatsworth 91311. Or send e-mail to Irene.Garcia@latimes.com.