NEW ORLEANS (press release) – Upturn Arts is hosting its 7th annual dinner fundraiser, sponsored by the Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust, Appetite for Art. On Wednesday, Nov. 13, join Upturn Arts at the New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute, or NOCHI, from 7:00-9:30 p.m. (Patron Party from 6:00-7:00 p.m.) for a one of a kind culinary experience that will raise funds for the organization’s mission to provide “Arts for All” to children in the New Orleans community.
The evening commences with an hour-long Patron Party with passed hors d’oeuvres, live music by Alexis and the Samurai and mocktails crafted by Upturn Arts students. An original piece created in collaboration with Demond Melancon, Big Chief of the Young Seminole Hunters and Upturn students will be featured in the live auction.
Doors will open at 7:00 p.m. for regular ticket holders to enjoy a special performance featuring Upturn Arts’ Youth Ensemble. At 7:30 p.m., guests sit down for a four-course meal with dishes by Adolfo Garcia, Atchafalaya, Bordeaux, NOCHI and Toup’s South. Students attend Upturn Arts Fall Break Camp at its Central City location, NOLA Spaces, and participate in music, dance, visual arts, and theater classes the week of fall break; with special workshops from all performing guests.
“Art provides an outlet for expression and at Upturn, we encourage our young artists to ‘Get Turned Up!’ to discover that ‘aha’ moment when they recognize their strengths and become inspired to share and explore their creative voices,” says Dana Reed, Upturn Arts’ executive director. “Events like this support our creARTive grant program ensures access for all with subsidized tuition for low and middle-income families.”
“Raising money through Appetite for Art is a way to give something back to Upturn and the kids it serves,” says Molly Mitchell, mother and Appetite for Art’s chair this year. “My son has attended Upturn camps for several years and he thrives in its creative, supportive environment. He especially enjoys learning from master artists working in all forms of media.”
Tickets are on sale for $200 a person, $375 a couple, or $2,250 for a Patron table of ten ($500 for a patron couple). To raise additional funding, Upturn Arts will hold a live auction featuring vacations, artwork, and one-of-a-kind experiences. All proceeds from the dinner will go towards Upturn Arts’ creARTive grants program, providing arts enrichment to children in the New Orleans community regardless of family income level. Tickets can be purchased at bit.ly/AppetiteForArt2019 until the day before the event.