Cultural Trust Gala: Cirque Eloize Hotel
When and where: Thursday night at the Benedum Center, Downtown.
#OohLaLa: Quickly becoming the hottest ticket in town for the fall season, the Cultural Trust’s annual gala did not disappoint. In fact, the event soared to new heights this year with the dazzling (and death-defying!) performers from the mustsee Cirque Hotel Eloize.
“To have the world premiere of this incredible show at our gala is so exciting. Who knows where they may fly to next; Broadway may be calling,” said Kevin McMahon, CEO and president of the Cultural Trust.
But partygoers weren’t just flying high during the performance. This year, the Cultural Trust teamed up with Bricolage Production Co. for some theatrics during the cocktail hour, too, as guests were greeted by actors performing vaudevilleinspired vignettes.
“This is why I love the Cultural Trust,” said event chair Leroy Ball. “The ability to escape and be transported to some far-off place is what this is all about.”
Transported, indeed, as guests settled in for a breathtaking dinner under the big top (tent) outside of the Benedum Center post-performance. Whimsical, magical and Cirque-inspired, guests were treated to a stunning visual feast showcasing event planner Nancy Byrnes at her best. Glass candelabras made light dance across sequin linens in various shades as colorful blossoms courtesy of Hens & Chicks nodded to the circus in a romantic and modern way. Easily one of the best parties of the year, the Cultural Trust continues to show that artists (in all their forms!) reign supreme.
#SEEN: Karla Boos and Joel Le Gall, Brigette and Bill Kolano, Catherine Loevner, Vivian and Bill Benter, Peggy and Steve McKnight, Pam and Ken McCrory, Barbara Mendlowitz, Grant Oliphant, Neil Parham, Doris and James Carson Williams, Mary McKinney Flaherty and Mark Flaherty, Caryn Rubinoff and Craig Dunham, Richard Parsakian, Janera Solomon and Jeremy Resnick, Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, Bonnie and Tom VanKirk, Lou Castelli, Marya Sea Kaminski, Alex and Harris Feit, Ellen and Dr. Loren Roth, Ranjana and Kannu Sahni, Janet and Harris Ferris, #SEENBestDressedCouple: Chris and Barbara Howard, Maria Caruso, Mara Leff, Susan Leff, Wallis Katz, Rhoda Neft and Marta Mazzoni.