On Thursday, March 16, 2017, Brookline residents and business people gathered at The Brookline Teen Center — a perfect party venue — to enjoy delicious local food, fantastic entertainment, and make new connections.
Originally scheduled in February, Art-i Gras moved to March due to a snowstorm and gained a St. Patrick’s Day spin. The purpose of the event was to shine a light on three of Brookline’s important nonprofit arts organizations: The Brookline Arts Center; The Brookline Music School; and the Puppet Showplace Theatre.
As guests threw Mardi Gras beads over their heads, they immediately got into the grove listening to Evan Jacobson, a talented Brookline Music School student, playing his tenor sax. SugarBloodJinx, an exciting jazz band, led by Scott Pittman, of the Brookline Music School, could not have been better in a New Orleans setting. These guys get a party started! They do not mess around.
Brad Shur and Roxie Mhyrun of the Puppet Showplace Theatre facilitated a fun interactive puppet show. They regaled the audience with a fill in the blanks story that required audience participation – by everyone, including Chobee Hoy who discovered untapped talent.
Graphic designers from Opus Design were not the only guests having fun with markers, filling in enormous murals brought by Sarah Fujiwara and Lauren Riviello of the Brookline Arts Center. New artists were born.
If food in New Orleans is close to as good as Art-I Gras fare, pack your bags! Guests enjoyed New Orleans Flavored Sushi from Fugakyu, Brisket Sliders from the Vine Ripe Grill, Fresh Pecan Praline Crepes from Paris Creperie, Beignet and Lucky Charm Knishes from Michael’s Deli, Po Boy Pizza from Otto, and Cajun Kale with Local Grits, as well as Warm Bread Pudding with Bourbon Carmel Sauce from Rifrullo Café.
We were delighted to announce the winner of our raffle, a round trip with hotel stay for two to New Orleans, courtesy of Jet Blue and Roberto Castello and Rob Rosenblatt of Holiday Inn, Brookline. The happy winner is Colin Porter, Brookline Courtyard Marriott. Yep.
Art-i Gras wouldn’t have been possible without the support of Capital One, Purple Sponsor, and Goddard House, Green Sponsor. The chamber is especially grateful for their “kick art” community spirit! We’re also appreciative of the chamber volunteers who orchestrated the evening, with special thanks to Lisa Wisel, Vine Ripe Grill, and Nick Mallia, Paris Creperie. A shout out to Elizabeth Schlosberg, Brookline Chamber, and Camille Rivero, Brookline Teen Center, for their expertise.
See Art-i Gras photos, taken by photographer Debra Rose, on the Brookline Chamber of Commerce Facebook Page.
For information about intriguing upcoming events, such as “Women Inspiring Change,” “Close the Sale,” our “11th Annual Golf Tournament,” and “Coffee with Joe Kennedy,” visit here.
Miller is executive director of Brookline Chamber of Commerce.
