Tuesday, March 13, 2018

A Toast to New Orleans March 13- 19: "Chamber for the Ages"/ Art in Bloom/ Phantom of the Opera/ French Quarter Festival Gala/ St. Patrick Parade and more






Darlings,
As my favorite English poet, Percy Bysshe Shelley said in his “Ode to the West Wind”:
O, wind, if winter comes, can spring be far behind?
Yes, spring has arrived in New Orleans before it was due for our enjoyment! This past week was one of those that made me feel so grateful and blessed to be here in my beloved New Orleans.  
The highlight of my week was, of course, hosting my annual Round Table Luncheon Saluting the Spring Festivals and the upcoming social soirees. As you can see from the photos taken by talented Frank Stansbury, thanks to the speakers and the entertainment, the Round Table Luncheon was informative, entertaining and delicious.
THE NEXT ONE WILL BE ON MAY 9, 2018
Frank Stansbury added 32 new photos to the album: Margarita's Roundtable 3-7-18 
On Thursday, I was invited to the inaugural “Dining with Deb” event.
Darlings, thanks to my darling friend, talented Deborah Elam, I experienced, along with hundreds of powerful women, one of the most memorable, inspirational, empowering and delicious dinners ever.

“Surround yourself with phenomenal women who are confident and secure enough to know there is room for each of you at the table” —Deborah Elam 

It was indeed a celebration of our great city and the amazing women who have contributed to its success, with special guest political commentator Cokie Robertshttps://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10155082748795870.1073743104.581200869&type=1&l=8a54493f99

34th Mad Hatters' Luncheon and Fashion Show
Darlings, I enjoyed so much participating on the 34th Mad Hatters' Luncheon and Fashion Show benefiting the Women’s Guild of New Orleans Opera Association. The soiree was held at the New Orleans Marriott and the theme was “Happy Birthday New Orleans.” The afternoon included a hat contest for the most glamorous, whimsical or outrageous hat, a fashion show by Saks Fifth Avenue, a delicious lunch and a silent auction.

These were the participants in addition to the 450 guests who participated and competed: 
Master of Ceremonies: Richard Buchsbaum
Judges:  Sandra Herman, Peggy Scott Laborde, Terrance Osborne, Mark Romig, Hon. Jennifer Van Vrancken and Julie Winn
Characters: 
MAD HATTER - Russ Herman, ALICE - Lynn Abide, QUEEN OF HEARTS - Jane Miller;
RABBIT - Brian Monk and CATERPILLAR - Margarita Bergen 
Co-Chairwomen: Faith Peperone and Jean Rice

Opening Reception for Salazar Portraits & Jimmy Blanchard's Archival Watercolors
William Pittman Andrews, Executive Director of Ogden, Kevin Michael Kelly,Sponsor of the exhibition and talented featured artist Jim Blanchard
The fabulous Ogden Museum of Southern Art is featuring not one but two fascinating exhibits and last night was the opening. Please check it out:

SALAZAR: PORTRAITS OF INFLUENCE IN SPANISH NEW ORLEANS, 1785 – 1802 CELEBRATING THE NEW ORLEANS TRICENTENNIAL
MARCH 8 - SEPTEMBER 2, 2018
In conjunction with the Tricentennial celebration of New Orleans, the Salazar exhibit tells the story of Yucatán-born Josef Francisco Xavier de Salazar y Mendoza (c. 1750-1802), whose career spanned most of the Spanish administration of New Orleans.

A PRECISE VISION: THE ARCHITECTURAL ARCHIVAL WATERCOLORS OF JIM BLANCHARD CELEBRATING THE NEW ORLEANS TRICENTENNIAL
MARCH 8 - AUGUST 19, 2018
Drawing from both private and public collections, this exhibition tells the story of one man’s mastery of his chosen medium, of his obsession with the built environment of his home and of his transcendent combination of history and art. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10155085185940870.1073743106.581200869&type=1&l=2333e7a0c9
Grand Tasting at 2018 NEW ORLEANS BOURBON FESTIVAL
The 2018 NEW ORLEANS BOURBON FESTIVAL took place  in New Orleans last  weekend.
Artist Luis Colmenares  

I was invited to attend the Grand Tasting at Contemporary Arts Center (CAC) at 900 Camp Street. It offered a veritable Bourbon bazaar featuring a plethora of Bourbon-centric goods and souvenirs; tastings from the world’s finest distilleries; a cigar lounge; and tasty bites by New Orleans best local restaurants while enjoying live entertainment by local jazz pianist Matt Lemmler. My darling friend, talented sculptor Luis Colmenares made the awards and had a booth. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10155087740300870.1073743108.581200869&type=1&

Friends of City Park“ 2018 Lark in the Park”
 Co-Chairs Robert and Dr. Mary Lupo with Franco Valora
The annual Friends of City Park “Lark in the Park” was just lovely! The beautiful Peristyle was the setting for the VIP's Party for the premier Party in the Park. The Gala was held on the Goldring/Woldenberg Great Lawn and Peristyle with fabulous and delicious cuisine from over 40 local restaurants, open full bars and festive libations by Republic National Distributing Company, auction, raffles and live entertainment featuring Sweet Crude and deejay Ann Glaviano (Heatwave!). Proceeds will benefit the restoration of the Casino Building.
Lark in the Park 2018 Chairs were Robert E. Smith LupoMary P. Lupo, M.D., R. Tom Lupo, Abby G. Lupo and Francesca Lupo.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10155087701075870.1073743107.581200869&type=1&l=27857fdad6

Fundraiser for Councilmember-elect Helena Moreno
I was invited as their guest at the lovely and delicious fundraiser for Councilmember-elect Helena Moreno at the spectacular penthouse of Russ and Sandra Thompson Hermanhttps://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10155087996845870.1073743109.581200869&type=1&l=db932033b6

"An Electrifying Event" Celebrating the Power of NCJW
Susan Kierr, Liz Yager, Barbara Greenberg at National Jewish Women Council's fundraiser
The beautiful renovated NOPSI Hotel was the setting for the "An Electrifying Event" Celebrating the Power of NCJW. Guests experienced an incredible evening of vitality and elegance while supporting the critical and significant endeavors of the Greater New Orleans Section of the National Council of Jewish Women at NOPSI Hotel. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10155089061060870.1073743110.581200869&type=1&l=d775355d64

Thomas Blackwell Jr., soprano Karen Slack and baritone Ivan Griffin
Soiree in honor of the cast of Champion & LPO
Darlings, on Sunday night, I attended briefly a soiree in honor of the cast of Terence Blanchard’s two-act opera “Champion,” which premiered locally at the Mahalia Jackson Theater on Friday and Sunday. Members of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra also were invited to the lovely reception at the Marigny Opera House. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10155091375680870.1073743111.581200869&type=1&l=b360122e64

Darlings, this week is going to be another very hectic week as well. 

Tuesday Lafete News Link March 13, 2018
http://conta.cc/2GlrScB

Love New Orleans & She'll Love You Back.
Sincerely,
Frank Stansbury
Lafete News



Tuesday, March 13: Seats are still available for "Soirée Musicale in 18th-Century New Orleans"

The 16th Les Comédiens Français Lecture
"Soirée Musicale in 18th-Century New Orleans"a harpsichord recital with Davide Mariano presented in conjunction with New Orleans, the Founding Era

6-7:30 p.m.Williams Research Center,410 Chartres Street

Tuesday, March 13

Concert 4 in Faulkner Society's Free Public Concert Series: "Chamber for the Ages" featuring Soprano Sarah Jane McMahon, pianist Jesse Reeks and violinist Lulu Reeks present the Fifth Annual Series of Free, Public Concerts for Lent At Historic St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1100 Chartres St. Tuesdays, 6:30 p. m.

The Faulkner Society and its partners—the Jazz & Heritage Festival Foundation, St. Louis King of France Cathedral-Basilica, and the Archdiocese of New Orleans—cordially invite you to attend the fourth concert in its annual series of free, public concerts during
Lent, with the theme this year of Soul of the City: 300 Years of Musical Diversity.

March 13

#WomanCrushWednesdays with Anaïs St. John
7:30 PM



March 14-25
The Phantom of the Opera


Looking forward to going  to the opening of The Phantom of the Opera at the Saenger Theatre. I first saw it in London, NYC and then here several times but I love it. It will be playing March 14-25.

Following an acclaimed sold-out tour of the United Kingdom, Cameron Mackintosh’s spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s phenomenal musical success, The Phantom of the Opera, will come to New Orleans as part of a brand new North American tour. Hailed by critics as “bigger and better than ever before,” this production boasts many exciting special effects including the show’s legendary chandelier, new scenic and lighting designs, new staging and choreography. The beloved story and thrilling score will be performed by a cast and orchestra of 52, making this Phantom one of the largest productions now on tour.
www.ticketmaster.com
Buy The Phantom of the Opera tickets at Saenger Theatre New Orleans from the official Ticketmaster.com site.





  March 14

2018 YLC Wednesday at the Square Lineup
March 14: The Lost Bayou Ramblers with co-headliner Mia Borders

March 14
New Orleans Museum of Art presents Art in Bloom

One of the most anticipated springtime events in New Orleans, Art in Bloom showcases spectacular floral designs created by over 100 exhibitors that remain on display at NOMA for four days, from March 15-18.  This year's theme, Queen of Arts: Celebrating 30 Years of Art in Bloom, will bring together exhibitors from New Orleans and beyond to celebrate three decades of Art in Bloom. 

This year's theme also draws inspiration from the highly anticipated A Queen Within: Adorned Archetypes exhibition. This exhibition features experimental gowns, headpieces, and jewelry by avant-garde fashion designers Alexander McQueen, Gucci, Gypsy Sport, and Iris van Herpen investigate symbols of womanhood and challenge conventional notions of beauty. More than 100 articles of daring fashion are presented in a dramatic gallery design that explores eight archetypal personality types. Proceeds from Art in Bloom benefit education projects and exhibitions at NOMA and community projects of The Garden Study Club of New Orleans.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018
Patron Party 6 p.m. | Preview Party 7-10 p.m.

THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2018
9:30 a.m. | Lecture | Charles Masson | NOMA
0:45 a.m. | Lecture | Lela Rose | NOMA
12:30 p.m. | Luncheon and Fashion Show 
presented by Saks Fifth Avenue
 
Pavilion of the Two Sisters, City Park
 
THURSDAY, MARCH 15  --   SUNDAY, MARCH 18

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC




 March 15 
“French Quarter Festival 35th Anniversary Gala”

Special guests to include Fats Domino's grandson Chevis Brimmer, Roger Lewis (of the Dirty Dozen Brass Band and Fats Domino's Band), and Charmaine Neville. They will be featured in the Tribute to Fats along with Al "Lil' Fats" Jackson. Solo jazz guitarist Seva Venet will be entertaining guests upstairs in Antoine's historic and beautiful Twelfth Night Room.

Patrons will celebrate a “Taste of Fest” with festival chefs. Gala guests will enjoy tastings by Antoine’s and an open bar courtesy of Abita Brewing Company and Brown-Forman/Republic Beverages.
Tickets: $155-$500/Ticket
Location: Antoine’s
Contact: 522-5730

If you haven't bought your tickets yet, we hope you'll join us in celebrating the French Quarter Festival 35th Anniversary Gala at Antoine's Restaurant 

March 15  
Crimestoppers Annual Luncheon
 This annual awards luncheon honors civic and community leaders and individuals who assist Crimestoppers with fighting crime and keeping the streets of our city safe.
Tickets: $125/Ticket
Location: Hyatt Regency New Orleans
Contact: 837-8477
City Park N. O. Logo
March 15, 2018
Pfister Sisters
Thursdays at Twilight Garden Concert SeriesThis weekly series showcases a changing lineup of musicians and bands.

When: Thursdays
Where: Pavilion of the Two Sisters in the Botanical Garden
Hours: Gates open at 5pm; music begins at 6pm
Parking: There is a free parking lot across the street from the Botanical Garden.
Admission: $10/person

-


  3-15-18

For 2018, the official medallion worn by members will be the coat of arms for County Donegal, Ireland. Donegal is a beautifully landscaped area located on the northwest coast of Ireland. As New Orleans celebrates its 300th birthday, the Irish Channel continues to celebrate its proud Irish roots and culture the best way we know how - by parading it down the street.

Irish Channel St. Patrick's Day Parade Irish Channel St. Patrick's Day Parade Club New Orleans, Louisiana
 irishchannelparade@gmail.com 
Facebook: IrishChannelStPatricksDayParade
 Instagram: irishchannelparade 
Twitter: irishchanparade Snapchat:
 ICStPatsParade www.irishchannelno.org

THURSDAY, MARCH 15 PUBLIC BLOCK PARTY 1 0 : 0 0 A . M . - 6 : 0 0 P. M . Annunciation Playground 1500 Chippewa St. 



March 16 
Hermann-Grima + Gallier Historic Houses “Amazing Grapes Wine Auction”
This evening under the stars will feature impressive vintages, rare bottles of wine and other great items through a fabulous online auction. The night kicks off with a Patron Party and will include live music, specialty cocktails and food. Location: Hermann-Grima House Courtyard-Contact: 274-0750
 
March 16 
Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans' 41st annual “Julia Jump”
This year’s event will feature live music by Bon Bon Vivant, local cuisine and a silent auction. Proceeds from “Julia Jump” will help the PRC to “Provide critical home repairs for low income, elderly, disabled and veteran families in neighborhoods across the city; transform blighted properties into family homes; and train new homebuyers in purchasing and renovating a home of their own.”
Tickets: $75-$125/Ticket; $275-$3,000/Patron Party
Location: New Orleans Center for the Creative Arts
Contact: 581-7032, PRCNO.org/event/julia-jump-2018


March 17 
St. Patrick's Day 
SATURDAY, MARCH 17 M A S S 1 2 : 0 0 P. M . St. Mary's Assumption Church 2030 Constance St. SATURDAY, MARCH 17 PA R A D E 1 : 3 0 P. M . Beginning at Napoleon Ave & Tchoupitoulas





March 17 
United Negro College Fund “UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball” (Sold-Out) 

This ball is hosted by UNCF and local corporate sponsors to involve celebrities, dignitaries, civic leaders, volunteers, educators and other supporters in the annual local fundraising activities of UNCF. The evening will include national live entertainment, dining provided by celebrity chefs, dancing, student testimonials and a parade of masks.
Tickets: $600/Ticket
Location: Hyatt Regency New Orleans
Contact: 581-3794


TRINITY ARTIST SERIES
call: 504 670 2520
Trinity Episcopal Church 
1329 Jackson Avenue, New Orleans
504 670 2520

Tuesday, March 13: @ 6 pm: Organ & Labyrinth, 
Albinas Prizgintas 
plays the 5000-pipe tracker organ
with ambient lighting and occasional guest musicians. From Bach to the Beatles and beyond! 
Since Katrina, a unique and magical distinctively New Orleans musical meditation. All are welcome. 
PLEASE Note: This March 18 Concert starts @ 4 pm 
Sunday, March 18 @ 4pm: Shu-Ching, concert pianist, and Bach specialist, from Taiwan,
will be playing the monumental Second Book of Bach's Well Tempered Clavier

   * and at 8 pm: Jazz Vespers: Anais St. John, award-winning cabaret artist
Please Note: Jazz Vespers Every Sunday Night during Lent at 8 pm sharp with Accomplished Jazz Artists.
The program lasts 30 minutes and features musical selections and scriptural readings

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