L.A. Dance Project Gala 2013: Before, During and After

Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Since moving to Los Angeles, one of the biggest enhancers for me has been discovering the booming art world.  Without a doubt, this includes the formidable  L.A. Dance Project.  Directed by the talented choreographer, dancer and dance curator, Benjamin Millepied, LADP is proving itself to be a fresh, young, innovated company breaking the boundaries of what a dance company can be.

So, when asked to become involved with its inaugural gala, I jumped at the chance.  And somehow ended up offering my house as the venue for such event.  After meeting with the event team, it was decided to build a stage over my pool and have dinner tables on the lawn for an intimate performance and dinner. The process was fascinating and intense.

 I tried to capture the inconceivable moments of creating the beautiful setting, perfect for the creative boundless energetic performance of the LADP.

The result was this tucked in stage with greens surrounding.  And the moon that evening became an integral part of the decor as it perched itself above the trees, brightly shining and looking on.

Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

And then the beautiful people arrived.  The guests could not have been more chic, lovely or interested in learning more about LADP. Sipping on Grey Goose cocktails, guests mixed and mingled atop the pool, aka stage during cocktail hour.

Founding Director, Benjamin Millepied with wife and Honorary Chair, Natalie Portman,
Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Portman and Millepied with co-chair Catherine Soros, Jeffrey Soros, me and my hubs, Christian Stracke
Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Jessica Trent of Jessica Robin Trent PR, Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Parker Jones and Carmen Danae, Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Mary Alice Haney, Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Black Swan producer Mike Medavoy and Irena Medavoy
Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Cameron Silver
Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Kate and Mulleavy of Rodarte with Catharine Soros
Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Mark Anthony Edwards and B Michael
Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Giada and Todd de Laurentiis
Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Rashida Jones and Natalie Portman
Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

With my friend and co-chair Catharine Soros
Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Reese Witherspoon
Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Monique Lhullier
Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Jeffrey Deitch of MOCA
Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Karyn Lovegrove
Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Guests sat around tables spread along the grass yard, enjoying salads with watermelon and feta, braised short ribs, wine and good company.  Surprising all of us, the dancers of the LADP slowly stood up to dance throughout the tables as two violinist played atop the stage.

Julia Sorkin and Kimberly Brooks
Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

above photos Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Making their way to the stage, they performed a glimpse of the past seasons and a section of an as of yet titled work by Justin Peck with music by Bryce Dessner.

Collage mash up of last seasons work set to music of Queen and David Bowie's "Under Pressure"
Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

After the performance we headed back up to the stage to dance to the composer, producer and DJ trappings of Nick Britell.  It's always fun to be on the dance floor with professional dancers, not to mention on the same stage where they had just performed.

Nick and Benjamin

above photos Photo courtesy of Stefanie Keenan

The mood was easy-going and supportive.  By the end of the evening, we all shared something in common: a true awe and love for the inspiring work of the L.A. Dance Project.

The L.A. Dance Project dancers:  Nathan Makolandra,  Aaron Carr,  Rachelle Rafailedes, Amanda Wells,  Morgan Lugo, Julia Eichten, and Charlie Hodges (Ballet Master and dancer)

A huge thank you to such an amazing gala committee:  Darren Afronofsky, Brian Atwood, Maria Bell, Mark Bradford, Kimberly Brooks, China Chow, Anne Crawford, Mary Alice Cheney, Jeannie Joseph, Pamela Joyner, Rose McGowan, Karyn Lovegrove, Michael and Jamie Lynton, Mike and Irena Medavoy, Kate and Laura Mulleavy of Rodarte, Sally and Michel Perrin, Cameron Silver, Dita Von Teese, and Jessica Robin Trent

Met Gala 2013: Punk Goes Society

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is an icon.  It is one of the most prominent museums in the world.  The Costume Institute of the Met has become in and of itself an icon.  Mostly due to the media-frenzied Met Gala that happens every May.  The Met Gala runs under the leadership of Anna Wintour, so it is no surprise that it has garnered such attention.  But the focus of the evening is on (or should be on) The Costume Institute which houses over 35,000 important pieces of fashion from all eras from the 15th Century to current day, thanks in large part from the support of the Friends of the Costume Institute. My fourth year attending, I was honored to go with French couturier, Alexis Mabille. 

Total Met look: Alexis Mabille couture dress, Amber Erin Jewelry vintage earrings, Perrin Paris stingray clutch,
Brian Atwood rare Crystal Pumps. Makeup and Hair by Kiss and Makeup by Meredith

Punk kids graced the stairs on the way up for cocktails

The "Punk: Chaos to Couture" exhibition, curated by the talented Andrew Bolton, inspires much conversation and debate.  I spoke with Andrew at the Gala and expressed my surprise at how tame the show was - considering the topic.  He mentioned that others had said the same thing.  The show begins with the Godmother of Punk Vivienne Westwood Tshirts, but then moves through the decades with various designers and their own take or inspiration from punk. I agree with others who think the show would have more impact had it been smaller, more intense.

First piece of exhibition, stunning

  

We walked through the exhibit as Alexis gave me his designer perspective.  I drank it in from a fashion lover's perspective.  An art lover's perspective.  As always, the people watching was fun, but it was most certainly not my favorite year.  It felt as if the celebs (and some donors) were trying too hard.  And the idea of Punk at a fundraiser seemed a little odd:  punk hates everything establishment, money, old people...

Alexis looking on

The Friends of the Met usually are bundled together, with various seating assignments.  All of the Friends prove to be extremely interesting, smart, Met enthusiasts.  I might say a direct contrast to the celebrity tables that surround.   Different this year, after the basically non-existent supper, we headed to the Egyptian room for performances by Blondie and Kanye West.  Oh! And dessert of cookies and cupcakes.

Punk cookies

Hamish Bowles and Alexis Mabille

The back of Hamish's trousers

Blondie on stage

Alexis and I made our way into the Boom Boom Room at the Standard Hotel in the Meat Packing District after the gala for the Givenchy sponsored after party.  A packed house as always, the after party was a zoo and fun. After riding in the elevator with a Alexis-gushing Katy Perry, we entered the madness.   Loved running into my fashion favorites, Brian Atwood, Mary Katrantzou and Monique Luhllier.  

Boom Boom

Brian, me and my BA glass slippers

Unfortunately, it feels as if this fundraiser has become more about Vogue Magazine than the Met Museum.  I'm hoping things will swing the other way eventually.  And I believe in the museum and what the Costume Institute does, and I urge everyone to see the exhibit - and maybe a few other things in the museum too.  As I said to a friend, the celeb of today is not necessarily the donor of tomorrow. I will proudly remain a believer in the cause and and donor to THE METROPOLITAN OF ART COSTUME INSTITUTE.  

Oceana Gala 2013: a vision of blue

Photo courtesy of Oceana

Someone once asked me if I was a professional "gala goer".  I guess the answer is yes.  Especially when it comes to causes that I admire and want to support.  OCEANA is one of those organizations.  I'm not sure that anyone who learns about what Oceana does could resist joining the cause as well.  As the largest international ocean conservation organization, Oceana continues to impress me with its countless legislative changes made globally that protect and save our oceans and its inhabitants. (greatly in part to the focused vision of CEO Andrew Sharpless)  Things like banning shark finning in California and the E.U., stopping offshore drilling in the coral reefs of Belize, banning wild sea trout fishing in Finland and many more.  I strongly urge you to check out their website and get more info!

Chris Hemsworth, Susan Rockefeller and Elsa Pataki
 Photo courtesy of Oceana

So I guess when I get invited to the inaugural NYC gala for Oceana, chaired by Susan and David Rockefeller in New York at Christy's, I have to go.  And bring friends with me...  The evening started with cocktails in the beautiful space of Christy's featuring the splendid photography of various artists.

Inside the ballroom, we entered through tunnels of submarine-like windows and doors.  The decor was simple and beautiful with video images of our beautiful oceans and beaches surrounding the room.  Survivorman, Les Stroud, kicked off the evening by reminding us how powerful our oceans and ocean creatures are.

Kate on point

With the mermaid herself, Sue Rockefeller!
blue shift Lisa Perry

The beautiful Kate Walsh followed with her own story of involvement with Oceana, proving that the SoCal bred actress is passionate about our oceans and especially the survival of Sea Turtles.  My friend and reason for getting involved with Oceana, Susan Rockefeller, also spoke on the importance of remembering why we were gathered there that evening.  Oceana rarely lets you forget why you may be dressed up and eating steak…

Kay Fernandez raising her paddle!

O.C.A.D and Olivia Cipolla surprised everyone with an energetic and slightly erotic performance after dessert.  The live auction was a hit, raising over $150,000, including a dinner with President Bill Clinton.  (I tried, but alas was outbid)

Table mates Cameron Silver, Amber Hackett, Jennifer Tilly with  Frank Fernandez and sponsor  Rick Taylor, President and COO of Konica Minolta 

with milliner extraordinaire Rod Kennan and Valentino's Robin Hermelee

The night was a huge success, raising close to $1m for Oceana that will go towards saving your Oceans.  My Oceans.  Our Oceans.  I'd say that's worth getting dressed up and dragging friends out for!

Masters Tournament Exposed 2013

Augusta, GA, during the Masters Tournament at the Augusta National, transforms each spring.  Not only do dogwoods blossom, azaleas turn bright pinks, oranges and whites, but droves of people from all around the world enter our small little city.  Berkman Road morphs from roving grass hills to a giant parking lot of rented cars, taxis and vans.  It becomes officially what is known as Masters Week.
There aren't tons and tons of hotels in Augusta, so many locals turn over (aka rent) their houses to be enjoyed by golfers, corporate groups and visitors.  Those Augustans usually head out to the beach or some other Spring break destination.  The ones that remain enjoy a week of Augusta on steroids - a fun albeit exhausting time of golf, parties and spring.

Washington Road is the main strip from I-20 to the Augusta National golf course.  On this road one finds crowds of people walking toward the course, passing decent hotels, chain restaurants and bars.  But behind this scene is the real Augusta.  The beautiful southern charm of Augusta that some are lucky enough to experience.

Pre-course photo with Jeannie Joseph, Amber Hackett and Kay Fernandez: Paco Rabane goes Green

Course fashion and shopping: Caroline Morris and Heather Howington

After spending a day walking the grounds of the Augusta National, watching golf, eating sandwiches (my favorites are egg salad and barbeque - always a local debate!), drinking cold beer and catching up with friends that you see along the way; we Augustans begin the Masters Week night life.

ACC at sunset: Mary Linda Lamar in Mary Katrantzou

Some hit the Augusta Country Club for the 19th hole.  The Donald Ross-1899 created course abuts the Augusta National, and some say just as challenging.  Its stunning clubhouse overlooks the greens and the Augusta treelined sky.  With nice pours of wine, liquors and yummy bar snacks, the outside courtyard floods with generations of Augustans and guests dressed in post-tournament outfits or fresh, evening ready wares.  And with its famous and super secret cocktail, The Velvet Hammer, how could the Augusta Country Club not be a favorite watering hole?  (by the way, the Velvet Hammer is an ice-cream based drink that will knock your socks off while pretending to be a dessert…)

Photo Courtesy of Tako Sushi

Tempura fried asparagus: Photo Courtesy of Tako Sushi

I am obsessed with Tako Sushi, located in the perfectly charming shopping center, Surrey Center.  With a brave menu of Southwest food on one side and Sushi on the other, Tako Sushi is a crowd pleaser.  Flash fried sushi rolls, pulled pork nachos and their famous margaritas set the mood right!

Guiness at night: the cure-all

Augusta has deep Irish roots.  And these are usually the most fun folks in town.  Sheehan's Irish Pub is another packed venue during Masters Week (and every other week).  The food is great and the bartenders are always pouring.  Either sitting outside or cramming yourself inside, there is no better way to enjoy the atmosphere.  Just remember to walk home or get a taxi…

  

Augustans love to throw and attend parties.  This year I decided to have a sit-down dinner for 50, with a mixed guest list of locals, guests and guests of guests.  Greg Boulus, owner and genius of Charleston Street creates the most intimate, lovely, inspiring tables for a party - ever.  And paired with Tastefully Yours Catering by Jennifer Shuford, your event is sure to be memorable and delightful.  Greg and Jennifer are both childhood friends of mine, and Augusta is lucky to have them setting up shop there.  They are pros!

Photo courtesy of one of my favorite locals, Tara Simkins

It's always that winning putt of the tournament that steals the show, but it's certainly cushioned by some of the most beautiful homes in the world, excellent cuisine and by far the nicest, most charming people. Always hard to leave, but more than a pleasure to return.

Elton Knows How to Party: Elton John Academy Awards Viewing Party 2013

Oscar 2013 night I had the distinct honor of attending Elton John's Academy Awards Viewing Party, held at the West Hollywood Park.  Tented beyond belief, the party is held inside a labyrinth of white walls and spacious rooms.

Stunning couple Heather and Jed Howington (Heather wearing Rick Owens) 

Jim Carrey's feet shoes

The first stop was cocktails in the open aired tent.  In attendance with friends from Augusta and Beverly Hills, we sipped champagne and spotted the stars as they came to the party.  Bono, Jim Carrey, Heidi Klum, Emma Roberts and more walked the red carpet into the dining tent.

Christian wearing Alexis Mabille mink bow tie and Tom Ford tux
Photo Courtesy of Stefani Keenan

With around 700 people in attendance, this is a big party.  We had a great table right beside the stage area where a keyboard sat waiting.  Huge televisions surrounded the room, offering everyone a great view of the Oscars show.  What a fun way to watch the Oscars: all dressed up, surrounded by celebs, and all while with some favorite friends.  Not to mention the fine food of Gordon Ramsey.

The Elton John Aids Foundation has been raising money for HIV/AIDS for over 20 years, reaching a benchmark this year of $300 million - $6 million raised the night of this event.  And Elton is the ultimate gracious host.  He and his partner David Furnish personally greeted every guest, visiting all 70 tables.  We were able to talk to him about his performance in Augusta earlier that fall, and friend Heather gushed over how great he was.  Augusta loves Elton John and Elton loves Augusta!

Far right, Christine and Gabe Ciu (Christine in Dior)

After the show Emeli Sande performed on the stage.  No Elton.  We then made our way to the after party for a little dancing.  Definitely my favorite Oscar night yet! To be included in the fight against HIV/AIDS in even the smallest way has never been so fun.