GALA REVIEW
OH WHAT A MAGICAL MOONLIT NIGHT!
With the whose who in the art community along with celebrities, media personalities and dignitaries strolling to the main building, The McMichael Canadian Art Collection held its annual fundraising gala on the gallery’s spectacular grounds. The Moonlight Gala 2014 was headlined by JUNO Award-winning jazz vocalist, Sophie Milman, who treated guests to an intimate performance of songs from her aptly titled album, In the Moonlight. In keeping with the theme, it was also a night displaying a full moon thanks tomother nature. A perfect fitting for the location of the McMichael.
It was a balmy and magical night as approximately five hundred guests celebrated the connection between art and nature with an unforgettable evening of dining and dancing, emceed by Beverly Thomson, co-host of CTV’s national morning show, Canada AM. Guests also had the opportunity to explore the McMichael’s iconic art collection and stunning wooded landscape. Last year’s sold-out event raised more than $100,000.
“The McMichael has had an incredible few years, moving from one great exhibition to another. Admissions are up sharply and memberships have never been higher. Moonlight Gala 2014 ties into the dramatic success of the gallery, and its ability to deliver world-class exhibitions and provide strong educational programming,” said Diane Wilson, Chair, Moonlight Gala 2014. “The Gala is perhaps the most unique anywhere because it is held under the stars on the McMichael’s lovely landscaped grounds.”
The Gala boasted an array of gourmet food stations catered by Daniel et Daniel; specialty desserts and late-night treats by Dolcini in Kleinberg, Jelly Modern Doughnuts, Ninutik, and Cashew and Clive; an award-winning selection of Ontario wines; and a scotch bar curated by returning sponsor Via Allegro Ristorante. Throughout the evening, guests bid on an incredible selection of items in the live and silent auctions, including luxury vacations to London, England and Western Canada.
Proceeds from the event contribute to the McMichael’s ongoing work to connect with art and nature through exhibitions that explore Canada from coast-to-coast and programs that engage people of all ages in art and art making, allowing the McMichael to maintain its position and significance as an extraordinary place to experience the best of Canadian art.
This event has become one of the most anticipated galas of the summer. It’s worth the trip to Kleinberg to experience, partake and support.
Review and Photos by Joey Cee
