Bonjour to all! An evening in Paris is just what 90 attendees got when they entered the door at the Coach House Theatre fundraiser Saturday night at the Akron Woman’s City Club.
The event featured a silent auction, French wines and foods that captured the flavor of France. Dona Bowman was this year’s chair.
“I’ve never been to France, but it’s almost like being there when I’m here,” Betty Huston said.
“They do fine work at Coach House and they really encourage artistic people in our community,” Peggy Shaffer said.
Laura Lee Garfinkle added, “You don’t have to go to New York City to see great plays.”
The evening in Paris committee included Sandy Conley, Verna Friend, Linda Gauer, Rosemarie George, Carol Krueger, Jean McCurry, Patty Norval, Nancy Rosche, Mary Jo Stasell, Diane Vukovich and Virginia Wojno-Forney.
The City of Lights backdrop decorating the ballroom was created by students from Miller South. Nancy and Jules Rosche agreed that they were there for the love of theater.
The evening began with an open bar and a French singing piano player for the patron levels, followed by champagne and hors d’oeuvres for all during the silent auction and “choisissez un esprit” (spirits raffle).
A four-course French dinner was served by white-gloved service staff.
Coach House Board President Carol Krueger said, “We need $200,000 to help renovate the theater.”
Spotted in the crowd were Barry Friedman, Patricia Brown, Lucy Lodge, Elizabeth Evans, Sandy and Mike Soful, and Rachel Whitehawk-Day and Rich Day.
“I’m French so it’s nice to celebrate French culture,” Whitehawk-Day said.
Dede Klein said, “I think the arts are so important to the community and we have a real gem here.”
Cabaret entertainment by Sandra Emerick and Tom Scott closed the event.