Chic, unique, and very sleek.
The Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida holds their second annual Chic & Unique Ball this Saturday at the Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort. With the theme of Crystal Opulence Unleashed, the stage is set to see who can have the chicest, uniquest pictures on social media.
This year’s event takes on extra financial importance after Gov. Ron DeSantis slashed $45,000 in state funding from their budget.
“This event is an opportunity for people to help us,” chorus executive director Mark Kent said. “This event is a way for people to express their voices, have a great time, have fun, maybe walk away with an auction item in their hand, while also helping us bridge that gap.”
The aforementioned auction is filled with some chic and unique items. There are trips ranging from P-Town to Croatia. The Hard Rock is offering their Party Like A Rock Star experience, while those looking to party like a chorus star can bid to be Maestro For A Moment and conduct the chorus during a show this season.
“Our mantra for this is: you have to have a great party,” Kent said.
He was in the middle of glittering up last-minute details when he came out to talk with OutSFL. “We’re adding the flourish and the fabulous to it any way we can. We’re trying to find as much glitter as we can.”
Doors are at 7 p.m. with dinner and the program starting at 8 p.m. Kent says the program will be about an hour and followed by a dance party. Once again this year, the Seminole Hard Rock is doing the decor and Vibe City Entertainment will provide live music.
That begs the question: is there enough glitter in Broward County? “If we run out of glitter, we have a very sparkly and effervescent community. But we’re not above reaching out to our neighbors for more glitter.”
Kent says his outfit is ready. “Our theme is Crystal Opulence Unleashed, so I’ve got a white, sequin’y tuxedo. I’ve embellished it a little more for the ‘unleashed’ part. I look like a walking chandelier.”
And for those concerned that they may not be chic, unique, and or opulent enough, Kent says it’s not an outfit, it’s a state of mind.
“Everybody is chic and unique in their own way. You do you. If you’re so inclined, find a rainbow broach to put on. Maybe a pocket square. You’ll feel more fabulous.”
VIP guests will have a reception at 6 p.m., and will be invited for a rooftop party after the presentation.
For more information and tickets, visit GMCSF.org.
