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A bygone New Orleans era was recreated on March 8 at Children’s Hospital’s “Sugarplum Ball.” The Old Ursuline Convent was the setting for more than 1,000 patrons to experience “Midnight in Paris,” chaired by Betsey and Andrew Todd, and Christy and Sean Kane, as well as decorations chair Lisa Happoldt. The convent, filled with many artifacts originating in France, was open for guests to explore.
The ball honored Children’s Hospital Orthopedic Surgeon Andrew King, who has dedicated his career to the care of children with orthopedic issues. Proceeds will benefit the Autism Center at Children’s Hospital, which works to improve the quality of life of children with autism and their families.
Paris came alive with a French market featuring flowers, produce and baguettes, created by Happoldt, and guests dined on Galatoire’s turtle soup, Domenica’s meatballs and polenta, Chophouse New Orleans’ crab bisque and Arnaud’s Shrimp Arnaud. Drago’s served charbroiled oysters and Abita beer from a customized fire truck. Haydel’s Bakery designed a 4-foot-tall Eiffel Tower cake surrounded by French pastries. Phat Hat kept things swinging with their blues and R&B dance music from decades past.
The silent auction items also echoed the Parisian theme. Wirthmore Antiques donated an 18th-century French desk for bidding, and an elaborately decorated mirror by artist Frances Swigart-Steg, donated in memory of the artist’s autistic daughter, was also up for bidding.
Event at a Glance
What: “Sugarplum Ball,” benefiting Children’s Hospital
When: Friday, March 8
Where: Old Ursuline Convent
