Hats in all shapes, sizes, colors and adornments, and those who wore them, filled the ballroom at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside Hotel on March 7 when the Women’s Guild of the New Orleans Opera Association hosted its 38th annual Mad Hatters Luncheon and Fashion Show.
Themed “All That Jazz with A Little Pizzaz,” the event benefitted opera association programs, including its youth education and sponsorships for those who wish to pursue the study of opera, and the upkeep of the historic guild home on Prytania Street.
Live and silent auctions, as well as a hat auction, raffle and wine pull all went towards raising funds.
A fashion show presented by Ballin’s kept lunchgoers entertained, but what quite a few attendees really wanted to know was who won the hat contests — an annual favorite — judged this year by Tracee Dundas, Jack Sullivan and Stephen Sonnier.
The 2023 winners were: Most Whimsical: Dr. Laura Agnew, second place, Liz Broekman; Best Original Theme: Tricia Lincoln; Best Ensemble: Jean Rice, second place: Ashley O’Bryan; Most Beautiful: Nancy Adams, second place: Sarah Abrusley; Best Group: Teacup Treasures, second place: Sally Bowls; Festive Fascinator: Denise Nagim, second place: Gerri Barker; and Mad Hatter’s Choice, Amanda Green.
Event co-chairs were Marian Gibbs and Kathy Weidner. The president of the guild is Joanne Mantis.
Portraying the “Alice in Wonderland” characters were: Mad Hatter, Tim Fields; Alice, Amy L. Carbonette Cioli; Bunny, Amanda Green; Queen of Hearts, Karen Villavaso; and Cheshire Cat, Sonya David.
Fun Fact
The first opera in New Orleans was “Sylvain,” which made its debut on May 22, 1796.