Vive les Folies Bergère was hosted March 2 at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota.
By
Kayleigh Omang
| 8:14 a.m. March 3, 2019
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The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota transformed into the premier nightspot in Paris in the 1920s, the Folies Bergère music hall, on March 2.
After a photo opportunity at the step and repeat, guests walked past the Eiffel Tower and into the event, where cocktails were passed around for the social hour. Three Parisian-themed specialty cocktails were made at the bar, most involving gin and champagne.
Guests were seated in the ballroom for dinner and served an endive salad, a filet of beef and creme brûlée, tart and cheesecake bites to top off the French meal.
The mission moment followed to prelude the paddle raise. This year’s funds went to the Asolo Repertory Theatre’s education and community engagement programs, which helps students develop an appreciation for the arts.
In true Folies Bergère music hall fashion, the evening concluded with a Parisian cabaret show and the Avalon Jazz Band. The performers showcased an array of singers and dancers with extravagant costumes and bold acts in a classic French jazz style.
For those not ready to go home, an after-party followed with more cocktails and entertainment.
Co-Chairwomen Donna Koffman, Michelle Senglaub, Jules Price and Tammy Karp
Co-Chairwomen Donna Koffman, Michelle Senglaub, Jules Price and Tammy Karp
Ian and Melissa Howard
Jugglers greeted guests as they walked into The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota.
An Eiffel Tower was lit up at the entrance.
Doug and Shari Phillips
Shari Phillips carried a Kate Spade piano purse.
Doug and Erin Christy with Kelly Dowd
Melissa and Terrance Bruzynsky
The annual gala was hosted at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota.
Three long tables centered the ballroom.
Roses decorated the tables.
The tables had glamorous, romantic vibes.
The menu card matched the rest of the decor.
Table decor varied from table to table.
Elisabeth Waters
Don and JoAnn Burhart
Sally Schule and Audrey Robbins
Tomeika Hunter Koski, Ariane Dart and Tatiana Twarowski
Three specialty cocktails were served at the bar during cocktail hour.
Susan Tavers, Elizabeth and Gary Butler with Margaret Wise
Liza Kane-Hartnett and L'Tanya Evans
Steve and Cheri Ziegler
Susan Buck, Debbie Haspel and Hermione Gilpin
One couple braved the dance floor before dinner.
The Avalon Jazz Band took the stage while guests were being seated.
Sarah Dasent and Maciek Zaremba
Ariane Dart with Brian and Caroline Ellerson
The co-chairwomen graced the stage to thank guests and sponsors.
Producing Artistic Director Michael Donald Edwards told guests about the Asolo Rep season.
