Joffrey Ballet's UNGala; About Face Theatre's Wonka Ball; Chicago Children's Museum plays "Hide 'N Seek"; Final Throne Chicago (OMG); Ocean Prime; Porchlight Music Theatre's ICONS gala; Giordano Dance Chicago and Saks' cool fashion show/party; Something new at the Pen; Hall of Fame baby!; Anixter Center's Benefit for Ability; Opening night for Mart antiques show; Alexian Brothers "Bal de Fleur"; Rush Spring Luncheon; Howard's brand new book; JoinAgent, a cool, new modeling platform; Jen's Golden Birthday; Fun videos and SO Much MORE!
_______________________________________________________________________________
Legendary Rush Street hotspot, Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse, celebrated its 30th anniversary in grand style on April 24 during a luncheon that benefited Misericordia Heart of Mercy. An overflow crowd turned out to celebrate with Gibsons' principals Steve Lombardo, Hugo Ralli, John Colletti, Kathy O'Malley Piccone, Greg Horan and a host of regulars, longtime employees and loyal fans. The afternoon began with a
cocktail reception with passed hors d'oeuvres, followed by a 3-course meal with menu favorites like filet mignon, double baked potatoes, creamed spinach and macadamia turtle pie and carrot cake. Following lunch, Rick Kogan of the Chicago Tribune, hosted an hour-long retrospective panel
discussion with Gibsons' afore mentioned partners. It was a fascinating discussion that touched on the early days (when every pencil was counted and they had no take-home bags) to the heady, celeb-filled days (that are ongoing). Kathy shared a touching story of one of Mohammad Ali's last visits to the restaurant with tears in her eyes. She said Jack Nicholson told her NOT to protect his table from fans as he "needed all the love he
can get." Billy Joel, a restaurant favorite, was told there would be a 45 minute wait before Kathy looked up and realized who was requesting a table. He still chose to wait like a normal customer (loved this). And Colletti shared an hysterically funny story about the time sexy actress Sharon Stone called for a carry out. John got to do the honors himself and was
even offered a kiss of gratitude! I was surprised to learn how much input from customers inspired menu selections. Famed NFL quarterback and Chicago legend Sid Luckman was instrumental in deciding on the restaurant's signature desserts insisting they be big and bold. He even flew Steve to Miami to check out Wolfie's that is famous for over-sized servings. Still Steve wasn't convinced so Luckman had his driver pick up desserts from all over town to compare. The late Congressman Dan Rostenkowski had his wife Laverne give up her beloved coleslaw recipe and the famous Gibsons' ribs were
inspired by those served at the former popular Rush Street hot spot, Singapore. Steve spoke about how the name came about (see video here), a combination of many happenstances that included inspiration from the late John Gibson (a man-about-town
who worked for the Chicago Convention & Tourism Bureau), the Gibsons martini and the simple fact that they'd waited until the last minute to decide. The event upstairs was by-invite-only but tickets were offered at $100 each with all proceeds benefiting Misericordia, a nonprofit that supports over 600 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. More than 300 people watched the panel discussion on screens set up downstairs at the restaurant so everyone could feel they were a part of the celebration. It was a thrill to relive the memories and see so many iconic photos as they scrolled on multiple screens throughout the event. Although, my fondest memory was getting engaged the day the restaurant opened and going there to celebrate, as we still do for every milestone (and just for fun too). Love and congrats Gibsons! You just keep getting better with age! :-)
________________________________________________________________________
It was definitely not your grandma's gala and it was a pure delight! I think The Joffrey Ballet's UNGala (see video here!) was just what the doctor ordered and that it heralds winds of change in the event world. I love the idea of something unique and unexpected, especially since it seems like I've
gone to almost every party/gala/ball in town since 1974. Years ago, my friend Helen Melchior and I came up with a similar concept for the Joffrey, an event we named "Couture & Cocktails," which was a departure from their usual event fare. We offered a
fashion show experience along with White Castle hamburgers served on silver trays, all at unique venues, and so much more. For 7 years, it was the Joffrey's second largest fundraiser after its gala. These days, people in the know in the event planning world are learning that the word "gala" does not have the connotation they are
hoping their parties will have these days. I know of many who are removing the word "ball" or "gala" from their invite. Just recently, during a planning meeting for the Eversight Gift of Sight event (formerly gala), we decided to remove that word and replace it with "celebration." (Shameless plug here: Michael
Caputo and I are co-chairing this event again this year--with honoree Sherry Lea Holson--on October 24, details here). Times are a-changing and I think this word denotes a thing of the past, at least at this point in time. Partygoers are now looking for unique experiences for their charity dollars and I don't blame them, I am too. I remember when the Red Moon Theatre Company first came into being--I was blown away by its creativity. I saw things I'd never seen before and loved every minute of it. I wanted to be at any party that they were a part of. Sadly, they no
longer exist but I'm hoping something else will pop up along these lines like the Joffrey Ballet's UNGala did on April 12. This party had all of these elements and more for a fabulous, must-attend event, held for the first time at the Lyric Opera House (which will be the Joffrey's permanent home in 2020). Stilt walkers dancing in the aisles and
blowing bubbles, Joffrey Community Engagement Dancers and Academy of Dance students (see video here!) featured in pop-up performances on 3 levels, fun food from Jewell Events Catering, dramatic decor from HMR Designs, magicians, performance artists, drag queens (Maya Douglas, Chilli Pepper, Mimi Marks, Honey West) and so much more. I was on complete sensory overload, just like my first trip to Disneyland, and I loved every minute of it. Congrats to the creative co-chairs and Women's Board members Laura Kofoid and Coco Meers and to the company itself, led by artistic director Ashley Wheater and Greg Cameron, president/CEO. Just like the event, the company keeps pushing boundaries on what's expected, bringing brand new work to its delighted audiences on an ongoing basis. UNBelievable!
________________________________________________________________________
More than 300 guests joined About Face Theatre for WONKA BALL: Disco Inferno on April 12, at Venue West. Chicago’s celebrated lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and allied (LGBTQIA) theatre company raised nearly $65,000 for its programming and nationally-recognized youth education and outreach program. Decked out in polyester leisure suits and platform shoes, guests were immersed in the lush world of drag, disco and decadent club culture. The
evening paid homage to the legendary champions of ball culture started by LGBTQIA communities of color. Crowds sipped cocktails and savored delectable treats at food stations while enjoying live entertainment by host Cleo Pockalipps and disco-infused
music and dancing curated by CircuitMOM productions. The party also featured an exclusive VIP reception, dozens of silent auction items, plus a live auction and raffle including tickets to Queen and Adam Lambert’s North American Rhapsody Tour and a private yacht party on Lake Michigan. Co-Chaired by Willa
Taylor, Mary Morten and Aaron Kacel with honorary co-chair Paul Lisnek (WGN TV/Comcast), the party included the presentation of the annual Leppen Leadership Awards. The 2019 recipients were Affinity Community Services, a social justice organization serving the needs of the Black LGBTQ
community of Chicago with a particular focus on Black women and Precious Brady-Davis, a local award-winning diversity advocate, communications professional and public speaker. Micah Manternach, Sharon Pasia and Jimbo Pestano were honored with the About Face Youth Theatre MVP Award, presented annually to outstanding youth theatre ensemble members for exceptional service to the company and to the greater LGBTQIA community. Proceeds from WONKA BALL: Disco Inferno support the theatre's award-winning mainstage programming and nationally-recognized youth education and outreach program. (Photos by Timmy Samuel)
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chicago Children's Museum (CCM) opened its doors to more than 250 supporters for the 9th annual Hide 'N Seek event on March 30. The event raised over $75,000 to support the museum’s community inclusion initiatives which welcome almost 140,000 people from underserved neighborhoods every year. The CCM board, along with the event’s host
committee, created a "Roaring 20s" theme for the party that included blackjack and roulette casino games, an aerialist performance, a flip cup game sponsored by Coyote Logistics, a Smilebooth gifbooth and more. DJ Michael Hill along with live music from
The Chicago Players transformed the Great Hall into a dance floor. The DineAmic Hospitality Group provided all of the evening’s decadent appetizers, with representation from Public House, Siena Tavern, Bar Siena, Bombobar, Prime & Provisions, Barrio and La Bodega. The party
continued at LIQR BOX, Hide 'N Seek’s official after party. The mission of the nonprofit museum is to improve children’s lives by creating a community where play and learning connect by providing play-filled experiences that include more than 15 interactive exhibits and daily programming. CCM aims to deliver at least one-third of its total annual attendance opportunities to low-income or under-served community members. (Photos by Beking Media)
________________________________________________________________________
The authenticity is astounding! Final Throne Chicago, a Game of Thrones-inspired pop-up party bar at 809 W. Evergreen, opened on April 20, and it is a must see if you're a fan of HBO's Game of Thrones. I'm a total geek for this show so this experience was like visiting Disneyland for
the first time for me. (Take a video tour here!) The theme envelops you as soon as you step inside the door and travel along the top of the "Wall" to enter the space. There, Daenerys and Khal Drogo greet you in full costume looking every inch the real characters they represent on TV.The main level houses the outstanding Hall of Faces, eerily detailed, where bartenders dressed as
henchmen serve "White Walker" Johnny Walker scotch, Game of Thrones chardonnay and red wine, along with many other cocktail choices, some served out of chalices. The great white Weirwood tree, from the godswood of Winterfell, spreads its branches in the entryway, with periodic snowfalls. Crazy, right?! Then, you move around the corner and there it is, the Iron
Throne in all its majesty, just like you remembered it. I couldn't wait to sit on it and feel the power. Cersei, I'm coming for you! Upstairs is another complete GOT
experience, this time inspired by Littlefinger's lair (brothel) on the Street of Silk in King's Landing--dragon alert here! The decor makes you feel like you're there--everything is bathed in red and very, very decadent. Loved, loved, loved it! The dungeon downstairs houses the wicked Night King, all 8 feet of him--another perfect photo opp. I'm telling you, I just about lost my mind here! Can you tell? I can't wait to go back and bring friends. WINTER is DEFINITELY HERE, Final Throne Chicago, 809 W. Evergreen Ave., 312.535.3355. (Take a video tour here with Daenerys, Drogo and me!)
________________________________________________________________________
Chicago seems to be exploding with new restaurants and, as much as this pleases me, it hasn't been so good for my waistline, yet, I soldiered on. We tried my favorite of the bunch (so far), Ocean Prime, a hot steakhouse and seafood restaurant located at 87 E. Wacker Drive on the 2nd floor of LondonHouse. From the elegant, chic decor to the delicious menu (created by executive chef Jason Shelley), the place was perfect in every way. A beautifully
appointed bar was packed with laughing guests with corner views to die for. The space features four private dining rooms with stunning views of the Chicago River and Michigan Avenue. The Wrigley Room accommodates up to 66 guests or can be divided into 3 smaller spaces. For a
more intimate dining experience, the Tribune Room accommodates up to 14 guests in an elegant wood-paneled space. Our server Heather was excellent and pointed out popular dishes like the variety of fish choices that ranged from blackened snapper to Florida grouper to Chilean sea bass, all prepared in a unique style by the chef. Sides were equally delicious and included smoked gouda tater tots, lobster mashed potatoes, parmesan truffle fries, white truffle caviar deviled eggs, goat cheese ravioli and so much more. There's even an extensive
selection of sushi as well as a raw bar. Just for fun, Heather brought us a signature cocktail "Berries & Bubbles", a complicated concoction of Belvedere citrus vodka, marinated berries, fresh lemon and Domaine Chandon Brut, all bubbling over with dry ice and smoke. It was so cool! We can't wait to go back! Congratulations to GM Louis Morgan III, Crystal Lining (sales and event manager), Maureen DeLuca (dining room manager) and, of course Chef Jason. It was a winner--delightful experience in a magnificent setting! Ocean Prime has 16 locations across the country and is open for lunch and dinner. 312.428.4344.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Porchlight Music Theatre celebrated 24 years and announced its 25th Anniversary Co-Chairs at its ICONS Gala brunch on March 31 at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago. The event set a new attendance record with 300 guests and broke fundraising records for Porchlight’s artistic and educational programs. The elegant brunch, chaired by Tamara Sims, included performances from Chicago’s leading talents that celebrated the legendary career of Jerome Robbins; the presentation of The Luminary Award to Jean Klingenstein and the introduction of the 25th Anniversary Chairs-- Rick and
Deann Bayless and Bill Kurtis and Donna La Pietra. Since it was a Porchlight special event, music and performances took center stage with David Fiorello, pianist and vocalist,
serving as musical director with Yulia Block on the drums and Lara Regan on reeds. Fiorello and the band performed Jerome Robbins-inspired numbers beginning with one of the stars of Porchlight’s recent hit A Gentleman's Guide to Love & Murder, Andrés Enriquez, singing “Something’s Coming” from West Side Story. Executive director Jeannie Lukow welcomed guests and shared a recap of Porchlight's stellar year that
included the critical, audience and financial successes of Gypsy starring E. Faye Butler and the aforementioned A Gentleman’s Guide; the highest number of subscribers in
Porchlight’s history and the expansion of its educational programming in Chicago’s public schools. The Commissioner of the City of Chicago Department of Cultural and Special Events Mark Kelly spoke about the Year of Chicago Theatre and how Porchlight's productions reflect Chicago’s place as a performing arts leader on a global scale. Artistic director Michael Weber spoke about
Robbins’ storied life and career including videos and photos of him and the many productions he was affiliated with including On the Town.
The tribute to Klingenstein began with multi-Jeff Award-winning Donica Lynn singing “One,” from A Chorus Line with the 300+ crowd joining in a musical salute to this year’s award recipient. Jeff-Award winner and star of Porchlight’s Gypsy, E. Faye Butler, performed “Everything’s Coming Up Roses” from the Robbins musical that brought the crowd to their feet. Lucy Godinez and Michelle Lauto ended the brunch with their rendition of “A Boy Like That” from West Side Story. (Photos by Michael Courier).
_________________________________________________________________________
Giordano Dance Chicago blew the doors off the spring fashion show presentation held at Saks Fifth Avenue (Michigan Avenue) on April 11. Matt Brown, Saks VP and general manager, welcomed guests. He was a former
"Dancing with the Giordano Stars" participant and, not only does he know his fashion but he knows dance too! Nena Ivon, a longtime Saks fashion director and author of Nena's Notes, produced the show that included dancers, models and former Star participants Christine D'hondt
and her husband Chris D'hondt, Joe Brown, Kip Helverson (board president) and Dr. Stacie McClane. The dancers opened the show and performed throughout as well as participating as models. Their "Momentum" number awed the crowd and had everyone hooting and clapping along. (See it here!) (Don't miss a GDC performance, click here for info!)
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Congrats to the award-winning Peninsula Chicago! While many are lamenting the loss of its beautiful bar on the lobby level, fear not! A brand new, elegant event space has taken its place. Millennium Park will seat 135 or so for that
perfect party. The oversized fireplace and windows overlooking the city will make this your go-to destination for after-parties, private events and more. A private debut party featured delicious food by the Pen's master chefs, beautiful decor by Kehoe Designs and great music by Ken Arlen performers. (Take a video tour here with an intro by the Pen's PR whiz Susan Ellefson!)
_________________________________________________________________________
Hall of Fame baby! I was so thrilled to receive the news that BizBash, a national industry magazine and event platform, chose me as an inductee into its 2019 Hall of Fame! The ceremony will take place at the Museum of Science & Industry on Wednesday, May 15. The Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Barbara Lee Cohen (Productions USA). I will be honored along with Lori Adlesick (Choose Chicago), Jack Luft (Hall's Rentals), Karen Malone (HIMSS) and Michael Nishi and Carey Pinkowski (Chicago Event Management). The Rising Star Award will be presented to Morgan Bucciferro (Chicago Cubs). I am beyond thrilled! #InviteOnly
________________________________________________________________________
The Anixter Center will host its 8th annual Benefit for Ability Celebrating a Century of Service on Wednesday, May 15 at the 1914 Club at Wrigley Field (1060 W. Addison). Chaired by Dominick Mondi, the event will honor the Anixter Family for its commitment to serving those with disabilities. (For tickets, more info, click here.)
On Friday, May 16, join the Woman's Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital for its 3rd annual Chicago Antiques + Art + Design Show opening night benefit. The show will feature over 75 dealers exhibiting fine antique furniture, decorative and fine arts and more at the Merchandise Mart (May 17th through 19th). For tickets, more info, click here!
On Saturday, May 4, the Alexian Brothers Foundation will host "Bal de Fleur" at Rockwell on the River (3057 N. Rockwell). Funds raised will go towards the Foundation's AMITA health initiative which provides access to programs and services for behavorial medicine, homelessness, chronic illness, the autism spectrum and developmental disorders, when and where people need it. (For tickets, more info, click here!)
The Woman's Board of Rush University Medical Center will host its 25th annual Spring Luncheon on Tuesday, May 7 at the Hilton Chicago. The event will feature Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland and UN Special Envoy on Climate Change. Funds raised will support service programs supported by the WB of Rush University Medical Center. (For tickets, more info, click here!)
__________________________________________________________________________
Huge congrats are in order for Chicago's own Howard A. Tullman, tech guru/serial entrepreneur/author/and all-round nice guy. His latest book, "You Can't Win A Race With Your Mouth: And 299 Other Expert Tips From a Lifelong Entrepreneur" is a must-read! Filled with tips, truths and advice, this book is the ultimate "source" for business and life in general. And even though Howard is always several steps ahead of anyone I know, the book is straight-forward and easy to read. (To purchase, please click here. You will be doing yourself a favor, believe me).
_________________________________________________________________________
Are you a model or an actress who is tired of the old way of doing business? Well, there's a new game in town and it's quite a disruptor. Welcome Agent, a brand new platform that puts the talent in charge. Establish your own rate, monitor and update your page and even RATE your clients/bookings! I love this new idea and am behind it 100% (as a matter of fact, I'm already signed up). I sat down for a chat with its creator, Mark Willingham, at RL the other day and I loved what I heard. He was in town doing press for this new idea and was
introduced to me by the Tribune's Larry Wert, who also backs the platform. "We're interested in providing a safer, more transparent environment for both the talent and client," Willingham said. I think this is an idea whose time has come. Currently, the platform is available in L.A., NYC, Miami, Las Vegas, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, San Diego, Seattle and now Chicago. Check out all the details here, see video below and let me know what you think!
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
One of Chicago's most popular girls-around-town, Jennifer Sutton Brieva, celebrated her Golden Birthday (50th) at the posh restaurant Marchesa recently with a room full of friends and family. Hosted by her handsome hubby, Dr. Joaquin Brieva, the event was all Old Hollywood Glamour put together by a "dream
team" of event professionals including Debi Lilly (A Perfect Event), Kathryn Alevera and Jason Clark (Marchesa) and beloved photog Mila Samokhina. Jennifer's passion for the Golden Era of Hollywood inspired everything from "gold" place settings accompanied by a framed photo of a silver screen legend to the music. Cole Porter and George Gershwin favorites were performed by
one of Chicago's popular bandleader's Bill Pollack. A three-tiered show stopper cake was prepared by Toni's Patisserie and topped off the decadent dinner designed by Michelin-starred Chef Didier. Once the dining and
toasts came to a close, the group ascended downstairs to continue celebrating in The Cave with local celebrity mixologist Nikki Friar for drinks and dancing to 70s and 80s music. It was a magical evening for all and the perfect soiree for a classic beauty who loves to dance! “At this point in my life I
know who and what matters most. I’ve stopped trying to fit into anyone else’s version of who they think I should be – what to believe or who to like. I'm grateful for loyal friends, support of family, the unconditional love of my cat and a true partnership with the love of my life who holds my hand
through it all,” Jenny said. Guests, who flew in from all over to attend, included Sharon Ann Louden, David Sutton II, David Sutton III, and Lonnie Sue Sutton from Colorado; John and Julianne
Donohue from Canada; Kelley McCarthy from St. Louis and Jodi Wilmot from Cleveland. Chicago guests included Paul Iacono, Todd Hatoff, Christopher Dovalina, Verne Thomas, J.P. Anderson, Steven Hearn, Julia Jacobs, Lori Allen, Tammy Kohl, Leah Chavie, Norma Rixter, Ben Soldinger, Kimberly and Jeffrey Postma, Diala and Henry Joseph, Martha and Magnus Ottenborn, and Lisa and Jeremy Kerman. Love and Happy BD dear Jenny!
________________________________________________________________________
Don't forget to mark your calendars now for "RETROSPECT," a brand new vintage fashion experience brought to you by the same cool folks from Randolph Street Market ! The event will include a preview of "Funny Face" at the Music Box Theatre on May 2, an upscale vintage market (May 3/4 and a killer fashion show (May 3), produced by Nena Ivon (Nena's Notes)! Join us! All the exciting details here!
________________________________________________________________________
Congrats are also in order for Chris Renk, principal senior partner at the law firm Banner & Witcoff. He and his team were recently awarded with the Impact Case of the Year Award for their work representing Converse in its trademark battle against entities selling knock-off versions of the company’s iconic Chuck Taylor All Star sneaker. Kudos Team Renk!
______________________________________________________________________
That's it for this week! I hope you've endured our extreme weather changes in APRIL?! One day, we were laying in the sun and the next
day, building snowmen! Also, don't forget, if you have something exciting to share, send it my way: [email protected] and, if not a subscriber, please sign in here! (My list is never shared, only treasured).
Love,
Candace
P.S. And, of course, something to leave you with a smile.....I could watch this allllll day long!
