2009 Benefit Gala a Success
Ice Theatre of New York celebrated its annual Fall Benefit Gala and Performance on Monday, October 26 at Sky Rink and the Lighthouse (Chelsea Piers). Olympic silver medalist, Paul Wylie, was the evening's honoree. Lar Lubovitch was recognized for his contributions as a choreographer for the ice with a special, Choreography Award, and this year's Ice Angel recipient was ice venue and long-time Ice Theatre supporter, Sky Rink.
The evening was a great success, with over 300 guests in attendance, and began with an exciting and varied program at Sky Rink. The Ice Theatre ensemble skated in works by major modern dance choreographers, such as Jacqulyn Buglisi, Elisa Monte and Alberto del Saz, along with a re-staging of "Tilt-a-Whirl" by Lar Lubovitch. ("Tilt-a-Whirl" was originally skated by John Curry and Peggy Fleming.) Also featured was a new work by skating choreographer, Douglas Webster in memory of young skater, Will Sears. In honor of Sky Rink, long-time member of Ice Theatre, Kenny Moir, skated a humorous piece entitled "In A Nutshell." Rounding off the program was honoree, Paul Wylie, in a debut of a new piece of choreography.
Following the performance, guests made their way to the Lighthouse to enjoy a delectable spread of hors d'oeuvres and cocktails while perusing a fabulous selection of Silent Auction items, which included jewelry by Arme, a Day With Derek Jeter, handbags by Gucci, Carlos Falchi and Catherine Rapetti and much more.
Over dinner, guests enjoyed tribute videos of both Paul Wylie and Lar Lubovitch, an award ceremony for all three honorees and speeches by Mr. Wylie, Mr. Lubovitch and David Tewksbury of Sky Rink. Emceeing the evening was Olympic silver medalist and friend of Mr. Wylie, Rosalynn Sumners.
Thank you for all those who attended and supported the 2009 Benefit Gala and Performance. You helped make the evening a great success!