WYES departed from its normal decor to become a hot club scene for one night only, complete with an illuminated red carpet welcoming guests to the “WYES Studio 12 Gala” Presented by Eugenie and Joseph Jones Family Foundation. The Charlie & Janette Kornman Performance Studio transformed with modular seating, a live band stage, roving disco lighting and even cage dancing! Proceeds from this event support WYES’ mission of providing educational, entertaining and enlightening programming to the region.
A special club lounge was created off the studio, draped in all white fabrics from floor to ceiling, which displayed a draped petal fabric. Ann Glaviano of HEATWAVE! started the party off with her DJ stylings.
Partygoers – donning 1970s-inspired attire ranging from Andy Warhol to bellbottoms, sequins, beads and fringe – enjoyed posing “disco-style” at a photo booth with novelty props.
Food was passed and generously displayed throughout the station. The Patron Oyster Bar from Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar was a hit, and the cuisine from Celebrate! Special Events by Windsor Court hailed the highest compliments from attendees.
Patrons were greeted with offerings of champagne, wine or the specialty “Disco Mule” cocktail served in copper mugs in addition to the full bars. Libations were provided courtesy of Goldring Family Foundation and Sazerac Company.
The live and silent auctions featured prizes such as Pelicans playoff tickets and a basketball autographed by Anthony Davis; a charter fishing trip followed by dinner at Bourbon House; and digital advertising from Outfront Media. Security guards flanked Charlotte Carrere, modeling the diamond earrings from Valobra Jewelry & Antiques, also an auction prize.
Later into the evening, The Phunky Monkeys took to the stage and amped up the dancing. Attendees who stayed through the late night enjoyed DJ Mannie Fresh.
Event Chairs included Pepper Baumer, Julie Comrade, Mary Clare and Danny Conwill and Susan and Jimmy Gundlach.
Event at a Glance
What: “The Albert Lepage Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation 2018 Awards Gala”
When: Thursday, April 19
Where: Audubon Tea Room
Co-Chairs Danny Conwill, Susan Gundlach, Mary Clare Conwill and Jimmy Gundlach
Bill Hines with Kaylea and Hunter Hill
