The New Orleans Film Festival stands as a showcase of local, regional, national and international films and attracts hundreds of filmmakers annually. In efforts to cultivate and inspire new cinematic storytellers, NOFS hosts programs such as the Emerging Voices Mentorship program for filmmakers of color, a grants program called “Create Louisiana” and Cinema Classroom, which introduces students to films and different careers in cinema production and exhibition. More than 350 partygoers attended this year’s lively event to support the NOFS mission.
Patron Party tickets included entrance to an exclusive event with top New Orleans food, specialty cocktails and live music by New Orleans/Belgian cellist, composer and singer Helen Gillet.
Thea Pagel Productions highlighted the Magnolia Mansion’s Old Hollywood glamour. More than 13 New Orleans restaurants and numerous beverage purveyors provided gourmet fare and craft cocktails. Grammy-nominated producer DJ Mannie Fresh provided late-night musical entertainment.
The live auction, helmed by board member Seth Bloom, included a VIP all-access pass to the New Orleans Film Festival, a private dinner prepared by Justin Devillier, a handmade bespoke suit and an outdoor movie watch party. Highlights of the silent auction featured a pair of Tribeca Film Festival Red Carpet Premier tickets, four suite tickets to a Saints game and a pair of Golden Tickets to every show at Tipitina’s on the first Jazz Fest weekend.
Event Co-Chairs were NOFS Co-Vice President Sayde F. Finkel, NOFS Board Member Conway Solomon and Trevor J. Haynes. Honorary Co-Chairs were former NOFS Executive Director Jolene Pinder, her husband Jason Curole and Joey Tufaro. NOFS Executive Director Fallon Young was also in attendance.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
What: “New Orleans Film Society Patron Party and Gala,” benefiting the New Orleans Film Society
When: Saturday, March 18
Where: Magnolia Mansion and Altamura Restaurant
