Not known for their tact, kids can be a tough crowd. But on Saturday night, the Joffrey Ballet's Nutcracker Family Dinner pleased at least one pint-size guest, who remarked, "This is the prettiest dinner I've ever had," as she was presented with a plate of sliders and fries in the Red Lacquer Room of the Palmer House Hilton. Led by co-chairs Astra Gamsjaeger and Kerrie Kennedy Mudd, an 11-member committee from the ballet's women's board oversaw planning efforts.
The family-friendly benefit drew 440 attendees and included a performance of The Nutcracker—guests could opt to attend Saturday's matinee or evening show—as well as an early dinner at the downtown hotel. With ticket prices starting at $150 for children and $200 for adults, the event included amenities for both sets of patrons.
At the 4 p.m. cocktail hour, bartenders doled out liquor at multiple bars while servers circulated with a more kid-friendly beverage that blended apple cider with Sprite. At activity stations, kids played with Legos or had their faces painted with silvery snowflakes, and strolling magicians entertained families with tricks. The dinner included separate menus for children and adults, and while kids nibbled away at their mini burgers and soft drinks, their parents had roasted game hen and wine.
To keep young partygoers from getting impatient or overtired, the event was brief. By about 6 p.m., most guests were in the final stage of the evening, scooping up desserts at a Land-of-Sweets themed buffet that offered everything from cupcakes to Pixie Stix and marshmallow snowmen.
Though the event's final take is still being tabulated, organizers expected to raise $75,000 for the ballet's general operating fund.
