When Gigi Huang and Mark Sullivan signed on to chair the Bering Omega Community Service's annual Sing for Hope fundraiser, they vowed to shake up the traditionally sedate evening of dinner in one venue followed by a concert in another. And shake it up, baby, they did.
The entire evening unfolded in the Hotel Derek ballroom, where highlights from the musical Cabaret scored high as deliciously bawdy entertainment. The Alley Theatre’s resident assistant artistic director Brandon Weinbrenner produced the program which began with Sing for Hope founder opera singer Camille Zamora delivering a glowing "La Vie En Rose."
From there, it was all Bob Fosse-inspired song, dance and dialogue with the Alley's towering Todd Waite ironically reprising the role of the vertically-challenged Joel Grey. And, oh, those Sally Bowles dancers! They sent a few gents into near-cardiac arrest.
The glam cabaret decorative theme, complete with thousands of deep red roses, was executed compliments of Todd Fiscus' Todd Events. Hotel Derek served as presenting sponsor of the black-tie bash that raised $150,000.
The evening honored Diane Lokey Farb with the Camille Zamora Award, recognizing the generous philanthropist for her support of the arts and medical causes across the city. Spotlighted for their long-time support of Bering Omega were honorees Cara and Michael Rudelson.
Among the 250 guests were Bering Omega board chair Jeff Gremillion, Kim and Dan Moody, Tiffany Masterson, Jo and Jim Furr, John B. Connally IV, Frances Marzio, Lizzie Sullivan, Stuart Rosenberg, Greg Morago, Jason Reeves, Elizabeth Petersen, John and Becca Cason Thrash, Alicia and Lance Smith and Tricia Harrison.
Becca Cason Thrash, Ceron.
