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Co-Chair Melinda Bourgeois, Maestro Dennis G. Assaf and Co-Chair Nora Vaden Holmes
The 22nd annual “Pasta & Puccini Fundraising Gala” transported patrons to “A Night at the Moulin Rouge” in the Sheraton New Orleans. The elegant evening evoked Parisian themes with tables centered with tall, lighted crystal vases with hanging prisms, topped with fuschia and pink plumes.
Partygoers enjoyed served champagne and appetizers prior to dinner.
Maestro Dennis Assaf led the JPAS Symphony Orchestra to accompany performances by the JPAS Theater Kids Competition Team and recent hit “Chicago” by Broadway returned locals Vanessa Van Vranken and Patrick Ryan Sullivan. Other New Orleans and JPAS former performers Jade Coates, Micah Richerand Desonier, Bruce Landry, Lindsey Reynolds and Greg Rittiner added to the varied program.
The silent auction featured trips, jewelry, art, restaurants, wine and other beverages. A VIP trip to San Francisco included airfare for two, and a Dream Vacation raffle awarded a choice destination of five options: an Alaskan or Caribbean cruise, Lake Tahoe, Nassau, the Bahamas or New York City to one lucky winner.
The Patron Party preceded the event, and was hosted by E. B. “Tripp” and Lisa Ludwig. Nora Vaden Holmes and Melinda Bourgeouis served as Gala Co-Chairs.
Event at a Glance
What: 22nd annual “Pasta & Puccini Fundraising Gala,” benefiting the Jefferson Performing Arts Society
When: Friday, October 20
Where: Sheraton New Orleans
