The Jefferson Performing Arts Society held its 16th annual “Pasta & Puccini” gala on Friday, November 11, benefitting the performances and outreach of JPAS, which include children’s programming throughout the season and theatrical productions.
Held at the Hotel InterContinental New Orleans, this year’s elegant gala featured a live auction hosted by celebrity auctioneer and Jefferson Parish President Josh Young, which included items varying from Delta airlines tickets to jewelry, art and more. The event also featured a dinner buffet brimming with foods from 21 local restaurants, a silent auction, an open bar and music of the great Giacomo Puccini and live performances by the performers from the JPAS Night of Opera and Broadway, including Brad Little of Broadway’s “Phantom of the Opera,” Broadway star Leslie Castay, performances by internationally known opera star Juan Carlos Calls and more.
Sold out since August, the event brought over 500 JPAS supporters together for the elegant affair in honor of the organization’s mission and both past and future accomplishments. JPAS programming serves over 20,000 arts patrons annually and spans over 10,000 youth throughout Southern Louisiana’s five parishes.
Co-chaired by Wayne Nocito and Karen Villavaso, the event raised proceeds helping JPAS to carry out its mission to promote art performance, training and outreach by providing a diverse range of quality programs that entertain, educate and enrich the cultural and economic vitality of Jefferson Parish, Greater New Orleans and the Gulf South.
Event at a glance
What: “Pasta & Puccini” gala, benefiting Jefferson Performing Arts Society
When: Friday, November 11
Where: Hotel InterContinental New Orleans
