Wednesday, June 10, 2009

BravoBravo! 2009 – A Spectacular Success



For the past decade, BravoBravo! has been named “Detroit’s Party of the Year.” This year’s 10th Anniversary was no exception. Bringing together Detroit’s best tastes, sounds, and most beautiful people, the party had glamour written all over it. As the new summer Intern, I had the privilege of attending, selling raffle tickets to VIP guests in the early evening.

Set in a Roaring 20s atmosphere, nearly 2000 flappers and zoot suiters attended in support of the Michigan Opera Theatre and Detroit Opera House. The economic recession was forgotten as the entire Opera House transformed into a lavish, 3-level indoor-outdoor extravaganza. A platform extended the stage, VIP cabanas and lounge areas lined the theatre, and ice sculptures and lights set the mood. Premiere entertainment filled the house, with the Cherry Poppin’ Daddies pleasing crowds and a DJ spinning tracks later in the night.

Tastes from the best restaurants and bars in the Detroit area surrounded the theatre and lined the first, second, and third floors. From sophisticated foie gras to cheesy fondue, there were tastes for everyone. Sanders even had a sundae stand on the second level, and the Jagermeister girls wandered all levels, distributing novelty items in their orange wigs. At every turn, there was a new taste, a new drink, and a fabulous new costume to admire.

Guests agreed that the party was a hit. Mr. Derek Strek, a lifestyle specialist, labeled BravoBravo! a “crucial party.” “Every year, it’s the place to be; beautiful people, great networking,” Strek said. Mr. David Parent agreed, stating, “I love it, it’s my 3rd year.” First timers were equally impressed. “Spectacular, amazing,” described Mr. Josh Suhre, a Wayne State University student who had waited 2 years to attend.

After a decade of partying in style for an excellent cause, BravoBravo! would not be possible without the incredible sponsors and supporters of Michigan Opera Theatre. A special “Bravo” is also in order for General Director Dr. David DiChiera and the MOT staff. By 12:30am, the lights came up at the Detroit Opera House, and people began to clear the theatre. But with young supporters like Mr. Suhre, we can be sure that the theatre will fill again, and BravoBravo! will continue to be a success. Here’s to next year!

Did you miss the festivities?
Check out photos from BravoBravo! 2009, provided by
Michigan Opera Theatre: http://www.michiganopera.org/slideshows/bravobravo2009_ss/index.html
CW 50:

A New Perspective at MOT


Hi, all! My name is Lauren Schultes, and I’m the new Public Relations and Marketing Intern here at the Detroit Opera House. Originally from Grosse Pointe Park, I graduated from Grosse Pointe South with four honor society cords in French, music, theatre, and academics. Around the Detroit area, I was last recognized for my work and dedication as Michigan’s Junior Miss 2007.
I now attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and am approaching my junior year. I am a UNC Kenan Music Scholar, on full scholarship for Vocal Performance. I was also just accepted into the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, bringing me closer to a double major in Music Performance and Business Administration. People are often surprised at the combination of opera and business, but my internship here is just one example of how the two work together!
On campus, I am an active member of Habitat for Humanity, the VP of Marketing for the Carolina Economics Club and Carolina Women in Business, and a member of Delta Sigma Pi, a professional business fraternity. I also continue to market a private business of my own, Belles Chansons (beautiful songs), where I am hired to sing for all occasions. While I miss the Carolina blue and southern hospitality, I am so excited to be back in the Detroit area and working with MOT for the summer.