Young Professionals take the stage at CultureMap Mixers on the Map

The wine room at Mockingbird Bistro was awash in theater talk Tuesday night during the CultureMap Mixers on the Map event that attracted 50 young professional supporters of Stages Repertory Theatre.

Producing director Kenn McLaughlin was center stage at the gathering talking up the upcoming season featuring In the Next Room, The Unexpected Man and Next to Normal. He was also keen on stirring up interest in the upcoming gala, "The Costume Ball" on March 24 at the Four Seasons Hotel. Although gala chairs Neil Hamil and fashion designer Jerri Moore weren't there, they were set to be on the scene at the home of Laura and John Spalding Wednesday night for the gala kickoff.

McLaughlin announced that there will be a gala after-party (only $50) with entertainment by Bubba McNeely and Greg Giacona.

Mockingbird Bistro chef John Sheely pulled out the stops for the cocktail party, serving a delectable smorgasbord of appetizers including seared foie gras samplings, white bean and garlic crostini, grilled potato bites with olive topping and other taste sensations. The $5 cocktails were a hit as well. Cosmos, anyone?

Schmoozing through the mix were Stages director of administration Todd Molesky, George Lancaster, Debbie Elias, Michael Landrum, Garrett Hunter, Kristen Cannon, Mauri Oliver, Jessica Badger, Zachary Hunt, Renne Bornn, James Glassman and Libby Cagle.