Can-Can girls, Moulin Rouge-flavored decor and a mime set the stage for the 124th anniversary of The Service Club of Chicago Gala. Guests donned festive formal attire for this event at the Four Seasons Hotel on Nov. 8 where Kehoe Designs had transformed the space to evoke the famed Parisian cabaret.
During the reception, partygoers shopped an extensive silent auction while enjoying cocktails served from a red lacquered bar hung with crystal chandeliers. A mime greeted guests as they entered through doorways draped in red and black feathered curtains. The French-inspired theme continued into the grand ballroom, where tables were topped with red oversized lampshades featuring cut-outs of high-kicking dancing legs. The Stanley Paul Orchestra played under an illuminated “Moulin Rouge” marquee.
Service Club president Myra Reilly toasted the organization’s 124th anniversary and spoke of its mission. “When you support the Service Club, you are helping many agencies all over Chicagoland. Whether it’s hospital beds or textbooks or a minivan that helps shuttle children to after-school programs, one hundred percent of the organization’s revenue goes to nonprofits all over Chicago to help others,” said Reilly.
Co-chairs Lisa Kraus and Kristina McGrath followed exuberantly dancing Can-Can girls (provided by ZZAZZ Productions) onto the stage for their remarks. “Your gifts and generosity tonight will serve the underprivileged, care for the abused and help guide the physically and mentally challenged,” said McGrath.
A record-breaking live auction raised $71,000 and included a stay at the Four Seasons Hotel, George V, Paris; two dinners for 10 in the Buccellati Oak Street store; a Super Bowl 2015 experience; a Deer Valley, Utah, getaway; and a yacht cruise in Naples, Fla. Society jeweler Peter Martino donated earrings for the raffle valued at $8,000.
The Gala raised more than $360,000 for the Service Club of Chicago’s 2015 Philanthropic Grant Program that awards funds to deserving charities.
Freelance writer Candace Jordan is involved with many local organizations, including some whose events she covers.
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