ICYMI: Light Opera Works' Salute to Movie Musicals benefit was a hit

Guest post 
by Light Opera Works

Alice Berneche

On April 11, 2015, more than 160 guests supported Light Opera Works’ spring benefit, A Salute to Movie Musicals, co-chaired by Cathy Westphal of Glenview and Pam Rosenbusch of Evanston, and hosted by Jim and Rosemary Hughes at the elegant North Shore Country Club in Glenview.

Catherine Westphal and Gary Raphael of Glencoe hosted a private reception before the event, during which business manager Mike Kotze screened a clip of “Love Me Tonight” and included performances highlighting the history of the movie musical.

Artistic director Rudy Hogenmiller served as the evening’s master of ceremonies, with Director of Events, Kyle Dougan and General Manager, Bridget McDonough of Chicago leading the live auction bidding. Throughout the evening performers including Light Opera Works cast members from upcoming shows performed numbers from movie musicals and Oscar nominated songs giving a glimpse into next season’s concert of “Hollywood’s Greatest Song Hits” performers included Alicia Berneche of Evanston, Mary Robin Roth of Westchester, Billy Dawson of Chicago, Sarah Larson of Chicago, Justin Adair of Chicago, and James Harms of Chicago.

Flowers were provided by Carl Davenport of Davenport Designs, with support by Martin and Sue Kozak. Photography was by Jennifer Schuman of Horizon Photography. Other sponsors were Binny’s Beverage Depot, Susan Kozak Charitable Fund, On Track Fulfillment, Viking Printing Solutions, First Bank and Trust Evanston and Marcus Promotions.

The raffle prize of $1,000 cash was won by Marilyn Drury-Katillo of Park Ridge.

The evening raised more than $45,000 to fund artistic programming,

YouthReach and SeniorReach initiatives.

Bruce and Mary Feay (left), Fran Faller and Joe Dunn, Lori and John R. Twombly.