Inspired by the Alley Theatre's recent production of Red, the theater's annual gala at The Corinthian was awash in bold color and in reminiscences of artist Mark Rothko.

Arriving guests were greeted by two large canvases inspired by the late abstract expressionist and two body-painted "Rothko" models. In a further nod to the artful world, painted canvases filled each window of the stately party space.

The Rothko-esque fixation continued throughout the night with partygoers, including gala chairs Cathy and Jesse Marion, picking up paint brushes and putting their artistic mark on three large canvases that had been part of the Alley's Red stage set.

The theme, "A Touch of Red," and the invitation dress code (black-tie with a touch of red) were answered in unusual party favors. Ladies were offered red chiffon scarves and men were given red silk hankies to complete any wardrobe oversights.

The Richard Brown Orchestra began the night with jazz sounds from the '60s (Rothko's heyday) while Darryl Murchison provided the red-infused decor and Nic Phillips volunteered his time to create a dramatic lighting design that had guests raving.

Welcoming the sophisticated party crowd were Alley artistic director Gregory Boyd and managing director Dean Gladden. They offered special thanks to top underwriters — Beth Madison, Cornelia and Meredith Long, Fayez Sarofim and the John P. McGovern Foundation.

After supping on the feast from Jackson & Co. and sipping on wines donated by Lasco Enterprises and The Tasting Room, guests packed the dance floor, drawn by the rocking sounds of Radio London.

The party crowd included Alley board chair Roger Plank and wife Connie, board president Rob Reedy and wife Susan, Kathryn and Jim Ketelsen, Lois and George Stark, Kelly and Bill Montgomery, Jana and Scotty Arnoldy, Kathy and John Orton, Nanette and Jerry Finger, Clayton and Shel Erikson and Molly and Ford Hubbard.