Chic & Unique. The theme of the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF) sets the tone, and lays down high expectations, for the newest high-profile event on the LGBTQ social schedule.
The Chic & Unique Ball, A Red Carpet Extravaganza, is Nov. 4 at the Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, located at 321 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd.
This is a sharp departure from GMCSF’s previous signature fundraiser, which was a fun, but low-key, affair deep in season. Now, everything is changing. The event is at the start of season and is a glitzy, song-filled Saturday night party.
“If Lady Gaga can reinvent herself, why can't GMCSF?” Gala Chair Robert M. Beaulieu playfully inquired. "'Necessity is the mother of invention,' which is certainly the case with GMCSF. We underwent and continue to experience incredible growth at 180 members strong. Our former Sunday brunch fundraiser maxed out its earning potential, so it was time to look at an evening affair, and The Chic & Unique Ball was born.”
The chorus will honor major artistic and financial contributors.
“We are thrilled to honor the contributions, advocacy, and dedication of our Advisory Council Chair Harvey Shapiro and his husband Michael Dager, along with the corporate support of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood and The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort,” said Mark Kent, GMCSF’s executive director. “This glamourous, glitzy, and charitable Met Gala-themed evening is all about community. We look forward to celebrating our donors, supporters, and friends by kicking off our 14th season in supreme style.”
The night starts with a sold out VIP cocktail reception at 6 p.m. at The Kimpton Shorebreak Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, hosted by local TV personality Alex Miranda. VIPs will get a VIP performance from the chorus’ best, including Artistic Director Gabe Salazar.
The main event starts at 7 p.m. at the Westin, with Joe Posa as Joan Rivers grilling guests paparazzi-style on the red carpet. The evening’s décor will be an elegant celebration of music, from custom guitar centerpieces (which can be purchased), to tables themed to iconic music stars. The indulgent night of fun will also have drawings for luxury items, including a Hard Rock basket containing dinner for two and a stay at the famous Guitar Hotel.
Dinner is at 8 p.m. followed by an awards presentation and a dance party by Vibe City.
"Chorus fans can expect a party unlike any other,” GMCSF’s Jonathan Sanz said. “We are bringing the glitz and glam of Hollywood and infusing it with the music, heart, and soul of the Gay Men's Chorus of South Florida. There will be dancing, celebrity impersonations, glamor, fabulous auction items, and, most importantly, music."
The chorus’ $1M budget funds the work of 180 singers and connects them to more than 20,000 attendees every year.
For tickets, go to GMCSF.org.