On Friday afternoon, the Joffrey Ballet hosted its second winter luncheon at the Four Seasons Hotel. Taking thematic inspiration from the company's current production of The Merry Widow, which is set in Paris, the afternoon was dubbed "Lunch at Maxim's." Jillisa Brittan and Cheryl Cook chaired, and their daughters Sabrina Weeks-Brittan and Emily Cook acted as junior chairs.
To bring the famous Parisian eatery to life, planners arranged for mustache-bearing maître d' characters to greet guests and lead them to the ballroom on a path lined with mini Eiffel Towers. Four Seasons chefs prepared a three-course French lunch that included a Brie-and-caramelized-onion tart, roasted chicken, and an apple tart with cinnamon ice cream. The meal was served on gold plates set atop BBJ's velvety red linens. The afternoon's raffle followed the Parisian theme, with prizes including a trip to the City of Lights.
The luncheon raised more than $50,000—which will benefit the Joffrey's programs and performances—and drew around 150 guests.
