Gala Chair Jacquee Carvin, Ralph and Ashley Mahana and Gala Chair Teresa Guzzetta
The annual BRAVO gala benefited the operating funds of the New Orleans Ballet Association. This year, BRAVO’s three-night gala package celebrated the return of the internationally reclaimed artists of Monte-Carlo’s 50-member national ballet company, Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo, for the first time in over a decade, as the first stop of three on its North American tour. The weekend of the BRAVO gala and “Roméo et Juliette” by Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo at the Mahalia Jackson Theater on February 24 was in celebration of the city’s Tricentennial, and the exquisite performance was NOBA’s gift to New Orleans and the anniversary. In attendance at the gala was the Ambassador of Monaco to the United States, Her Excellency Maguy Maccario-Doyle.
Guests were joined by Honorary Benefactor Dinner Chair First Lady Donna Hutto Edwards, who spoke at the dinner. Executive Chef Yvan Didelot of the Hyatt Regency New Orleans and Michelin-starred Executive Chef Benoit Witz and chef Luc Gamel, Meilleur Ouvrier de France 2000 of the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo provided a four-course dinner. The Benchwarmers provided musical entertainment, and guests participated in the raffle of a stunning necklace and received a treasured gift, both provided by Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry.
At the gala, outgoing General Manager of The Windsor Court Hotel, David Teich, was presented a special award by Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry for his many years of support of NOBA.
A champagne pull of bottles of champagne valued at up to $100 a bottle with gift certificates from Patrick’s Bar Vin, as well as other items, including Waterford champagne flutes. One lucky winner received a tour of the Brennan’s wine cellar with champagne served.
Gala Co-Chairwomen were Jacquee Carvin and Teresa Guzzetta, who attended with husband Dr. Don Guzzetta. BRAVO President Sandra Chaisson attended with husband Joel Chaisson. Honorary Gala Chair was Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser.
Event at a Glance
What: “Une Affaire d’Avant Garde: En Blanc et Noir,” benefiting BRAVO of NOBA (New Orleans Ballet Association)
When: Friday, February 23
Where: Hyatt Regency Hotel
Jenny Hamilton, Mayor Elect Latoya Cantrell, Ryan and BRAVO President Elect Stephanie Burks
Joel and BRAVO President Sandra Chaisson with Frances and Honorary Consul of Monaco Calvin Fayard
Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo Artistic Director Jean-Christophe Maillot, Ambassador of Monaco Maguy Maccario-Doyle and Pamela and Warner Williams
Gayle Dellinger, LBMC dancer Stephan Bourgond, Tiffa Boutte and LBMC dancer Christian Tworzyanski
Chad Berg, Virginia Eckholdt, Ashley Stagg and Bill Bennett
