Tuesday, December 16, 2014

A Toast to NO! Chanukah/Dirty Dancing/Round Table Luncheon and Fiesta Navidena and more ......‏





Darlings, another fabulous week has gone by in my beloved New Orleans. 
Today, the city is elated with the Saints victory 31-15 against the Bears, winning the NFC South lead. . Consistency is what they need - lets hope they win this Sunday against the Falcons - GEAUX SAINTS!

Once again, I was invited to more soirees than I could possibly attend but the holidays parties that I attended were very memorable and I took photos so I could share them with you.

My darling friend, Maestro Paul Mauffray, who just returned from conducting in Europe, escorted me to a very special holiday soiree. This week marked an exciting milestone in the 95-year storied history of Hilton Hotels & Resorts as 20 of the brand’s iconic properties were honored by Historic Hotels of America. Among the hotels to earn the prestigious designation is the Hilton New Orleans/St. Charles Avenue, located in the heart of downtown New Orleans. Most of you will remember it as The Hotel Monaco across the street from the Intercontinental Hotel. This hotel was the first skyscraper in the American Sector, and was a Masonic Temple for many years.
Of course, my evening continued and it was time to stop by the lovely holiday soiree for Young Audiences at the fabulous Martine Chaisson Gallery on Camp Street. The music by the Julio and Cesar Band and the delicious food by Chef Emile Stieffel made it very difficult for me to leave. Julio and Cesar will be playing their guitars at my Fiesta Navidena on Dec. 21. 
I attended the annual holiday of Bravo which was spectacular  My darling friends the Dugases own the beautiful mansion on Prytania that used to be owned by actor Nicholas Cage, Buzz Harper and Ann Rice. It is a magnificent mansion and we are very grateful to our sweet hostess Heidi Dugas for her hospitality. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152390944465870&type=1&l=25c42d2fbc
The first holiday soiree that I attended on Saturday night was hosted by my darling friends Virginia Boulet and philanthropist Alvin Albe Jr. at his beautiful mansion on Esplanade Avenue. The setting, the music, the delicious food and the libations made it difficult for me to leave this delightful soiree to attend another one.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152394746650870.1073742385.581200869&type=1&l=c8c8cbeffd
My next soiree before I turned into a party popper was the beautiful Juneaus' Ritz Carlton Penthouse where talented Julie Juneau was showing her exquisite glassware collection. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152394772670870.1073742386.581200869&type=1&l=89246d2c5a

On Sunday, glorious weather made Chiquita and I 's participation as judges at the 2nd Annual NOLA Paws so enjoyable. We met most of the participating canines at Lafayette Square where the parade started to the N.O. Convention Center. The costumes for both the owners and the dogs were superb. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152396355780870.1073742387.581200869&type=1&l=b1163bd808

Darlings, this is  another week that I am looking forward to attend some of the festive soirees: .

The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk and Chabad of Louisiana are inviting everyone to Light Up the Night on the Mississippi River with the Return of Chanukah at Riverwalk on Tuesday, December 16 from 5:30–7:30 p.m. (lighting at 6:15 p.m.) at Spanish Plaza.

Tonight, I am looking forward to attending "Dirty Dancing" at The Saenger Theatre. It will run from Dec. 16 to Dec. 21. Read more about it here: http://www.saengernola.com/shows/dirty-dancing1
Darlings, I cannot wait to host the Royal Sonesta 's annual festive Holiday Round Table Luncheon this Wednesday, Dec. 17  at the elegant Grand Ballroom at noon. Last year 250 fun-loving guests enjoyed the flowing champagne, delicious cuisine and the fabulous entertainment. This year Cabaret vocalists Suzaune Yee McKamey and Anais St. John will be among the fabulous entertainment that will put everyone in a very festive mood. Guests are encouraged to dress or put on holiday-themed costumes.
The luncheon features a program full of lively entertainment and a festive menu with plenty of champagne darlings. So don your holiday finery and make plans now to attend an unforgettable afternoon full of surprises.
The festivities begin with a Sparkling Wine Tasting courtesy of Chandon. Local author Bonnie Warren will set the scene for the annual holiday celebration when she presents her new book, “New Orleans Homes at Christmas.” Returning by popular demand, is cabaret singer Suzaune Yee McKamey, who will delight guests with an interactive holiday sing-a-long accompanied by Jim Walpole on piano. A command performance from the members of the Rivertown Theatre group will showcase a delightful musical number guaranteed to get everyone in the spirit of the season. The Sunshine Duo will also be on hand to perform a tune or two and sultry songstressAnaïs St. John presents a show-stopping finale that will leave guests wanting more. Anais will be reprising her popular Donna Summer “Last Dance” tribute show at the Marigny Theatre on Decenber 26 and 27. I was at the last one she did and it was a blast!
Executive Chef Kevin Goodwin and his culinary team have prepared a holiday feast with all the trimmings. Guests begin their meal with Champagne and Brie Soup with Tart aspberry Drizzle paired perfectly with a Blanched Brussel Sprout Salad with Mirliton Bâtonnets and Creole Mustard and Bacon Vinaigrette. The main course presents a lovely duet comprised of Pan Seared Gulf Flounder with Sweet Basil, Crab Cake Crumble and Saffron Champagne Beurre Blanc paired with Stilton Blue Cheese and Herb Crusted French Quarter Strip Medallion with Champagne Grape Glace served with Foraged Mushroom Dirty Rice and Spumante Glazed Baby Carrots with Caramelized Leeks.Guests complete their culinary journey with a delectable Fallen Chocolate Soufflé with Champagne Panna Cotta, Pistachio Brittle and Strawberry Consommé. Please plan to join us for this special holiday luncheon. The Royal Sonesta’s Round Table Luncheon is $50 inclusive with advance reservations or $55 at the door.
Parking is complimentary in the hotel’s parking garage. For reservations, please contact Noel Scallan at 504-553-2220 or email her at  nscallan@sonesta.com. Remember to make your reservations early; the December luncheon is always popular and spaces sell out quickly!

GM Alfred Groos with Suzaune Yee Mckamey and Anais St. John will be part of the entertainment !
That evening, on Wednesday, December 17, all are invited to Opera on Tap's Annual Holiday Party at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in the French Quarter (Bourbon and Toulouse streets). It is FREE and open to the public so please bring your friends and family and raise a glass and your voices for our favorite Opera on Tap of the year!

They will be singing some of your favorite opera pieces, plus a few local holiday favorites to get you in the mood. 7-8:30 p.m.
As you all know, the wonderful free concerts are continuing at St. Louis Cathedral at 6 p.m. 
You can visit the website: “Christmas in New Orleans” for all the details and schedules.
Also, as a reminder, this weekend coming up is your last opportunity to see the hilariously funny “Grenadine McGunkle’s Double-Wide Christmas” performance at Mid-City Theatre. Some of New Orleans’ funniest and most talented actors and singers perform in this annual holiday spoof. I haven’t seen this year’s production but, from what friends who have seen it tell me, you’ll be falling out of your seat from laughing so hard.

And, as always this time of year, two of the top local performances of Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” are being staged this week. Delta Festival Ballet, under the artistic direction of Joseph and Maria Giacobbe, will be performing at Tulane University’s Dixon Hall from Dec. 19-21, with Maestro Glenn Langdon conducting the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. Ballet Hysell will also be doing their “Nutcracker” performance on Dec. 20 and 21 at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center (East Jefferson High School auditorium) in Metairie. Maestro Dennis Assaf will conduct the Jefferson Performing Arts Society Orchestra in this colorful adaptation of the classic ballet by the late Harvey Hysell.
I do want to invite everyone to my very special FIESTA NAVIDENA on Sunday, December 21 at Casell Bergen Gallery.
Not to be missed!


Darlings have a wonderful week.

St. Louis Cathedral Concerts at 6 p.m.

  • December 16, 2014
    Hot Club of New Orleans
  • December 17, 2014
    Ronnie Kole

  • - See more at: https://holiday.neworleansonline.com/traditions/st-louis-cathedral-concert-holiday-series/#sthash.VFCMmiXH.dpuf


    The Saenger Theatre is New Orleans' premier performing arts facility featuring Broadway shows, concerts, comedians and events.
    SAENGERNOLA.COM


    December 16
    Chabad of Louisiana presents 
    The Return if Chanukah at Riverwalk
    Light Up th Nights on the Mississippi River 
    Lighting of the Grand Menorah at 6:15 at the Spanish Plaza


      

    RIVERWALK CELEBRATES CHANUKAH WITH GRAND MENORAH LIGHTING
    Light Up the Night on the Mississippi River with the Return of Chanukah at Riverwalk

    WHO:                   The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk and Chabad of Louisiana         

    WHAT:                 Chanukah at Riverwalk

    WHEN:                 Tuesday, December 16, 2014
                    5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. (lighting at 6:15 p.m.)         


     
    RSVP

    Tubby & Coo's Mid-City Book Shop Presents:
    Morgan McCall Molthrop & Andrew Jackson's Playbook
                                                                                                                                                              
    NEW ORLEANS, LA - TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16 - 5:30-7:30 PM
      




    Wednesday,December 17
     

    Royal Sonesta Hotel presents
    The December
    Round Table Luncheon
    hosted by Margarita Bergen

    Wednesday December 17th
    12 Noon

    Celebrating the Holidays
    Tis the season for celebrating at the Royal Sonesta New Orleans' Round Table Luncheon!

    Social columnist Margarita Bergen will host this popular holiday event in the hotel's elegant the Grand Ballroom. 

    The luncheon will feature a program full of lively entertainment and a festive four course lunch menu with plenty of champagne, darlings.

    So don your holiday finery and make plans now to attend an unforgettable afternoon full of surprises.

    Sparkling Wine Tasting, courtesy of Chandon

    Local author Bonnie Warren will set the scene for the annual holiday celebration when she presents her new book, New Orleans Homes at Christmas.

    A command performance from the members of the Rivertown Theater group will showcase a delightful musical number guaranteed to get everyone in the spirit of the season.

    Returning by popular demand is cabaret singer Suzaune Yee McKamey, who will delight guests with an interactive holiday sing-a-long accompanied by Jim Walpole on piano.

    The Sunshine Duo will also be on hand to perform a tune or two, and sultry songstress Anais St. John presents a show-stopping finale that will leave guests wanting more.
    Reservations:
    The luncheon is $50 inclusive with advance reservations or $55 at the door.
    Parking will be complimentary in the hotel garage, based on availability.

     
    Contact Noel Scallan at 504-553-2220 or nscallan@sonesta.com to reserve your seat!





    December 18 - December 21, 2014

       
     DON'T MISS THIS WEEK'S SPECIAL EVENTS!



    Southern Rep is thrilled to bring Charles Dickens' iconic tale A CHRISTMAS CAROL back to the stage in New Orleans! Adapted by Doris Baizley and directed by John "Spud" McConnell, this fresh take will feature lots of fun and laughter for the entire family!

    Featuring Graham Burk, Laura Friedmann, Jon Greene, Mike Harkins, Danny Herre, Donald Lewis, Sherri Marina, Jessica Mixon, Rachael Anne Pace, Josh Smith, and John "Spud" McConnell

    December 18 - December 21, 2014

    Thursday - Saturday Performances: 8:00pm
    Saturday & Sunday Matinees: 3:00pm

    Marquette Theatre, Loyola University
    6363 St. Charles Avenue

    ADULTS: $25
    CHILDREN UNDER 12: ONLY $12.50! 

    Discounts are available for Priority Patrons by calling the Southern Rep Box Office at (504) 522-6545.
    12-19-14

        
    Rivertown Theaters' Production of A Christmas Carol, The Musical Guaranteed To Make the Holidays Extra Special for the Entire Family

    Tickets to A Christmas Carol and Season Subscriptions Make Great Holiday Gifts!

    Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts will offer a very special production for this holiday season with the Radio City Entertainment's version of A Christmas Carol, the MusicalDecember 14 - 21 on the Main Stage.


    Sunday, December 21



    Caroling in Jackson Square
    Held on the Sunday before Christmas, Jackson Square is illuminated by hundreds of candles held by singers, both amateur and professional, crooning Christmas favorites that everyone is familiar with. The event is free and open to all who wish to participate, regardless of religious affiliation.
    Candles and song sheets are provided, courtesy of Patio Planters, the event’s major sponsor. A nonprofit group dedicated to the horticultural beautification of the French Quarter, Patio Planters helps fund the event through monies raised by its Vieux Carre holiday home tours earlier on the same day.
    The gates to Jackson Square open at 6:30 p.m. and the caroling begins at 7:00. Those who plan to attend and participate are strongly advised to arrive early. This is a very popular event that sometimes exceeds the capacity of the square.
    For more information call (504) 220-8300 or visit the Patio Planters website at www.patioplanters.org.
    - See more at: https://holiday.neworleansonline.com/traditions/caroling-in-jackson-square/#sthash.gh3o0MVk.dpuf



     NOMA and the NOLA Project present: TWELFTH NIGHT
      

      
    "Twelfth Night; or, What You Will" By William Shakespeare Presented by NOMA & The NOLA Project Directed by A.J. Allegra At NOMA's Great Hall One Collins Diboll Circle, New Orleans, LA 70124 Production Dates: December   16, 17, 18, 21 at 7:30PM Box Office Phone: 504-658-4100 (tickets and information) 504-302-9117 (school and group sales) Ticket Pricing: $24 General Admission; $18 Backstage Pass Members; $18 NOMA Members; $18 Students 17 and under There will be a limited number of Obstructed View seats available for $15 Tickets will also be available for sale starting November 10th at NOMA's Admissions Desk during regular museum hours. Or you may purchase online below. - See more at: http://nolaproject.com/page--twelfth-night-home-1.php#sthash.MC1hbFlM.dpuf
     ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Help the animals at the Louisiana SPCA find a home for the holidays.  Adoption fees will be reduced to $12  through the end of 2014!  The reduced fee will apply to adult cats, adult dogs and kittens adopted at the Louisiana SPCA (1700 Mardi Gras Blvd) and at all off-site adoptions during this time.  Call 368-5191 or visit la-spca.org for more information. 


    Participate in our Special Delivery program and give your loved one a gift that they won't forget! For a $75 donation, we will deliver your newly adopted pet on either Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Hanukkah or Kwanaza. This program is available for all animals adopted from the Louisiana SPCA two weeks prior to the desired delivery date. For more information on the Special Delivery program, visit www.la-spca.org/homefortheholidays.
     
    Louisiana SPCA
    1700 Mardi Gras Blvd.

    Off-site adoptions:
    Dec. 20 - Clearview Mall

    12-15-14
     -

    NOLA ChristmasFest is a two-week indoor festival located in the Great Hall of the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, December 15 - 24, providing holiday fun for the whole family. Discover the new My New Orleans Christmas display after a journey through the Great Hall of Trees featuring a stunning collection of more than 50 decorated trees and a Gingerbread Housecompetition benefiting Operation Homefront, an organization supporting local military families.  In Santa's Playland, children of all ages can enjoy the inflatable zone, petting zoo and a host of hands-on crafts and activities.  A variety of holiday characters will include special appearances by Mr. Bingle, the Ice Princesses with their favorite Snowman and many more. Skype with Santa's Elves and take a photo with Santa Claus.  Two stages will feature performances by Robin Barnes, 610 Stompers, Lena Prima, the Victory Bells, local choirs, cooking demonstrations and puppet shows, just to name a few.  On weekends, the Arts and Craft Market gives visitors the opportunity to shop for holiday gifts.



    NOLA ChristmasFest
    Parties with the Ice Princess and the Ice Queenare scheduledon December 20, 21, 22, 23 & 24. A Sing-along Pajama Party with Santa takes place on December 22. Other events throughout Christmas in the District include the Harrah's Champagne Stroll on December 5 and the Santa Paws second line dog costume contest on December 14.
    Additionally, Convention Center Boulevard will be festooned with thousands of lights and animated music from December 1 - January 6. NOLA ChristmasFest will complement the annual Christmas New Orleans Style celebration and will continue to evolve annually.
    Now is the time to plan your New Orleans holiday excursion and take advantage of spectacular Papa Noel rates in hotels citywide!
    Hours of Operation for NOLA ChristmasFest 
    Monday through Friday, December 15 - 19                         5:00 - 9:00 pm
    Saturday and Sunday, December 20 - 21                             12:00 - 9:00 pm
    Monday and Tuesday, December 22 - 23                            12:00 - 9:00 pm
    Wednesday, December 24                                                     9:00 am - 2:00 pm         

    • 12-15-14
    • CELEBRATION IN THE OAKS IS OPEN NIGHTLY UNTIL JANUARY 3

       


    • Celebration in the Oaks in New Orleans City Park, through Saturday, January 3rd, Celebration in the Oaks in New Orleans City Park remains one of the most beautiful holiday light exhibits in the country, attracting over 122,000 people in 2010. Walk through the Botanical Garden, Storyland, a children's theme park, and Carousel Gardens, an amusement ride area aglow with holiday magic! Nightly musical entertainment and a full service cafe featuring our famous hot-buttered rum! The Holiday mini train ride through the Park and the antique carousel are a can't-miss during the season! There is nightly musical entertainment and a ...
      Where: City Park
      When: Sun thru Thurs: 6:00 - 10:00 p.m. Fri & Sat evenings: 6:00 - 11:00; Closed: 12/24 & 12/31
      Who: Everyone - made for families!
      How: Click here to buy tickets online and avoid the lines! Remember to print your ticket and bring it with you! Note: if you buy tickets online, you must bring a legible, full page hard copy of them with you to the gate.
      Cost: Admission: $8.00 per person, Children under three get in FREE! Rides: $3.00 per single ride ticket, $17.00 per unlimited ride band. Train rides are $4.
      For more info: To learn more visit celebrationintheoaks.com, call Julie at 504-483-9415 or stop by the Park Administration office at 1 Palm Drive
      http://neworleanscitypark.com/celebration-in-the-oaks/buy-tickets-here
    • ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    December 19- December 21

       
    Make lasting memories at a Royal Teddy Bear Tea.  Set in the Royal Sonesta 's Grand Ballroom
    • Ballroom, teas are offered ,  Friday December 19th through Monday December 22nd. Seating times are at 11:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.  Step into a 'Winter Wonderland' where holiday characters come to life right before your eyes.  From story time with Mrs. Claus to a sing-a-long with Rudolph and friends, a Royal Teddy Bear Tea experience will delight children of all ages. Word has it that Santa himself promises to make a special appearance! Each child is invited to "share the magic" of the season by
    donating a small, unwrapped gift to the annual Children's Hospital Toy Drop. For reservations and details, call the Holiday Hotline at 504-553-2328.
    • Because Sonesta embraces a 'Culture of Caring,' the hotel has commissioned a local artist to create the Official 2014 Royal Teddy Bear Ornament.  One hundred percent of the net proceeds from ornament sales benefit Children's Hospital New Orleans.  This year, artist Jason Michael Mullan has created 400 limited edition, signed and numbered keepsakes that are available for $25 each.The ornaments may be purchased at all Royal Teddy Bear Teas or by calling the hotel's Holiday Hotline at 504-553-2328.
    • Award-winning executive chefs John Folse and Rick Tramonto of Restaurant R'evolution offer a traditional 18th Century Creole R'evellion dinner menu on the Eve of Christmas and on New Years Day. The restaurant will also offer a seasonal prix fixe R'eveillon dinner during the entire month of December as part of the citywide Christmas New Orleans Style holiday initiative.  Space is limited, so please reserve early by calling 504-553-2277.
    • Throughout December, choirs from across the metro area spread holiday cheer with special musical performances in the hotel's main lobby. Concerts take place each weekday beginning at 12:00 Noon.  Please visit Sonesta.com/RoyalNewOrleans for a complete performance schedule and plan to drop by throughout the holiday season to enjoy the hotel's elaborate holiday décor.

    Baroque Christmas

    December 18, 7:30pm
    First Baptist Church New Orleans

    (504) 523-6530
    View Event Website

    Tickets starting at $20, Students $10
    This holiday season enjoy some of the most glorious music ever written, including highlights from Handel’s Messiah along with music by Charpentier, Bach, and Mozart, with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, New Orleans Vocal Arts Chorale, and amazing

    - See more at: https://holiday.neworleansonline.com/events/baroque-christmas-2/#sthash.BlM7jo4G.dpuf

    Trinity Artist Series presents 

    Sunday,  December 21@ 5pm: Soprano Trish Foti and Friends.
    Christmas Concert with Harp, Cello, Trumpet, Violin and Flute  

    Tuesday, December 23 @ 6 pm: "Organ and Labyrinth" and Candlelight with Albinas Prizgintas on the 5000 pipe tracker organ.From Classical Baroque to Vintage Rock and Popular Tunes. Please visit: 






    Frank Stansbury added 4 new photos to the album iOS Photos— with Margarita Bergen.
    SMargarita Bergen's photo.

    Julie Juneau was showing her exquisite glassware collection.
     — with Stewart Juneau and 2 others atJuneau Penthouse, Rooftop Ritz Carlton.

    lovely holiday soiree for the Young Audience at the fabulous Martine Chaisson Gallery on Camp Street. The music by Julio and Cesar Band and the delicious food by Chef Emile Stieffel made it very difficult for me to leave.
     — with Arnold Baker and Tracee Dundas.

    This week marked an exciting milestone in the 95-year storied history of Hilton Hotels & Resorts as 20 of the brand’s iconic properties are honored by Historic Hotels of America™. Among the hotels to earn the prestigious designation is the Hilton New Orleans/St. Charles Avenue, located in the heart of New Orleans.most of you will remember it as The Hotel Monaco across the street from the Intercontinental Hotel. This hotel was the first Skyscrapper and was a Masonic Temple for many years
    — with Paul Mauffray and Leroy Jones.

    The annual holiday of Bravo was spectacular. My darling friends the Dugan own the beautiful mansion on Prytania that used to be owned by actor Nicholas Cage, Buzz Harper and Ann Rice. It is magnificent. mansion and we are very grateful to our sweet hostess Heidi Dugan for her hospitality
     — .
     Frank A. Pizzolato at his lovely home in the Marigny, saw many mutual friends.
    I attended the annual Faubourg Marigny's Caroling in Washington Square. It was lovely singing along with the talented Phister Sisters who joined by Davell Crawford, the Piano Prince of New Orleans.
     — with Bill Norton and 2 others.

     Party for The Press Corp at Zea and I saw a lot of old friends
     — 

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