Bravo for Curtain Call!

BY ANNE WILDE

The Lobero Theatre Associates’ Curtain Call fundraiser, held on April 22, 2022, went off without a hitch.

Passionate about keeping our architectural and cultural jewel vibrant for future generations, the dynamic women’s auxiliary group has raised more than a million dollars for the Lobero over the last five decades.

It’s thanks to their stellar partnership that patrons can enjoy the Lobero’s courtyard, the Steinway grand piano, the updated ladies’ restroom, the beautiful holiday décor on the esplanade, and so much more.

This year, rather than hosting their traditional “Hat’s Off Luncheon” fundraiser, the Associates decided to plan several events to raise money to replace our historic theater’s beloved curtain.

Co-hosted by members Janet McCann and Danielle McCaffery, with the collaboration of Lobero’s dedicated staff, a festive speakeasy soirée was planned and Curtain Call was born. Given its rich history and theatrical ambiance, the decision was made to host the event on the Lobero stage itself.

A beguiling juice joint atmosphere was created utilizing artistic lighting design, with the theater’s red velvet curtain beautifully draped to set the scene. In addition, the evening included charming vintage décor by The Tent Merchant, along with tasty hors d’oeurvres from Savoir Faire, and impeccable bartending service provided by Pour Choices.

Guests, donning Gatsbyesque garb, entered through a private backstage door using a secret password, and were welcomed with festive flapper accessories, such as strings of pearls and dazzling headpieces.

The piece de resistance was the artisanal craft cocktail menu, which included tempting specialty drinks, such as the Dollface French 75, Classy & Old Fashioned, Fizzy Flapper, and Millionaire Mule.

The evening’s entertainment featured enchanting soloist Jana McIntrye – daughter of fellow Associate, Lana McIntyre – who had performed in an opera at the Lobero last fall. The stunning soloist was accompanied on the piano by Kostis Protopapas, Artistic Director of Opera Santa Barbara.

But the highlight of the evening was an endearing covert tribute to a wonderful fellow Associate, Hope Kelly. At 93 years young, a member for 30 years, Hope has been responsible for sponsoring at least a dozen ladies as Associates, has hosted countless lunch meetings at her home and the Yacht Club, and is overall one of the most positive people on the planet. She was given a lovely silver frame, with a picture of her wearing one of her famous hats from a past Associates luncheon. At a later date, Hope will be honored with a plaque on the Lobero stage, when the new curtain is raised.

In the end, the co-chairs successfully achieved their goal to host a lucrative fundraiser, surprise Hope, provide first-rate entertainment, and have a blast.

This year, The Lobero Associates will be celebrating their exciting 50^th Anniversary, and the Lobero is grateful for their remarkable passion and dedication.

Let’s raise a glass to the next 50 years!