Stewart, mayor square off to benefit Geffen

The mayor of Los Angeles and the host of Comedy Central’s satiric news broadcast “The Daily Show” will square off face-to-face in “A Conversation With Jon Stewart and Mayor Villaraigosa” on Nov. 17 at the Geffen Playhouse.

During the live event, a benefit for the theater’s capital campaign, audience members can take advantage of an “open mike” segment and fire their own questions at the pair.

“Anything goes,” said Gilbert Cates, the Geffen’s producing director and producer of 13 Academy Award telecasts.

Stewart, who hosted this year’s Oscars ceremony, suggested sharing the spotlight with a “non-performer,” explained Cates, who immediately approached Antonio Villaraigosa.

Proceeds will help the Geffen raise the “$3 million and change” left to pay for its recent $19-million renovation and expansion, Cates said.

Tax-deductible single tickets are $250 to $500 and can be ordered at www.GeffenPlayhouse.com or by calling (310) 208-5454. Other donor packages are available by calling (310) 208-6500, Ext. 136.