Nancy Carlson’s beautiful backyard
Last Thursday, Dallas’s best-dressed arts patronesses came together for the 2014“Girl’s Party” benefit. Decked out in their best “garden chic,” guests snacked on tasty hors d’oeuvres and sumptuous desserts, sipped hibiscus coolers, danced to a girl power soundtrack, and raised money for Dallas Children’s Theater! The party was held at DCT board member and longtime supporter Nancy Carlson’s beautiful Park Cities home. Her backyard, festooned in lovely decorations, was the perfect backdrop for a girl’s night out.
Tara Lewis, Maggie Kipp, Linda Gray, Nancy Carlson, Sharron Hunt
Dancing the night away!
The theme of the evening was “Surprise! It’s Your Birthday,” a nod to DCT’s 30th anniversary season. The surprises kept coming! Nancy and event co-chairs Maggie Kipp and Tara Lewis truly outdid themselves. They were able to secure Linda Gray, the star of TNT’s “Dallas,” as a celebrity guest host! Linda, looking chic in a sheer blazer and sky-high heels, gamely posed for photos with guests. Guests were also treated to a high-energy performance to Christina Aguilera’s “Glam” by the Dallas Youth Repertory Project. Next, guests were presented with leis and had a Hawaiian luau dance lesson. Another highlight of the evening was artist JD Miller’s live painting performance. Miller, a resident artist at Samuel Lynne Galleries, set up shop in Nancy Carlson’s backyard and painted the night away. The finished piece, inspired, as Miller said, by the “amazing energy” of the evening, is for sale at Samuel Lynne, with 50% of the proceeds going to DCT.
JD Miller drawing a raffle winner. His beautiful painting is in the background!
Surprise, Kersten!
The evening came to a close with drawings for some spectacular raffle prizes! JD Miller donated another one of his paintings, and Gloria Tarpley was the lucky winner . Kersten Rettig donated a Highland Park Village shopping spree to the raffle. We invited her to draw a ticket, and in a funny, karmic coincidence, Kersten drew her own name! “Enjoy your shopping spree, Kersten- you deserve it!,” cried the crowd. Other raffle winners include Michelle Godo, who will enjoy a stay in a luxurious Santa Fe resort, and Nancy LaVerde. Nancy will have a meal catered by Mico Rodriguez, the master chef behind Mr. Mesero.
It was an amazing evening full of fun, laughter, and music. We were able to raise money and awareness about the great things happening at DCT. Thanks to all who attended!