West Windsor Arts Council presents “Carnaval Magic,” inspired by a Brazilian Carnaval, on Saturday, February 28. Guests are invited to experience one night in Rio complete with Samba dancing to the members of Alo Brasil band, professional Samba performers in traditional costume, international food and drink including the Caipirinha, the national cocktail of Brazil, and exclusive silent auction items. Tickets are $75.
To prepare for the transformation of the old firehouse, the staff, community volunteers, and sponsors have come together to produce the benefit evening. WWAC has tapped into community resources for inspiration including an invitation for talent of all ages to help create the Brazilian theme. Teaching artists, volunteer professional designers, and children’s artwork will decorate the center for the event. The Samba featured in the “Silver Linings Playbook” film will be the dance of the evening. A menu of South American-inspired fare presented by area chefs.
“The success of last year’s sold-out fundraising event told us we were on the right track,” says Arin Black, executive director of the arts center. “Our community is committed to our arts center, and they want to have some fun. We want to continue to remind everyone that the arts center is here for great art and performance but also as a social outlet and community connection for the residents — Carnaval Magic is sure to do that.”
Co-chairs of the event include Jasmine Dadlani, senior vice president, and director of branding for Cramer Krassault; and Krupali Desai, global marketing director at Impact Unlimited. Together with Black they have been instrumental in curating all of the details and volunteers for the event — from authentic Brazilian band and professional Samba dancers to heading up a team responsible for sponsorships.
Sejal Krishnan, a textile and graphic designer and one of the WWAC’s teaching artists, has been creating original art works with her students (from pre-school age through high school) to be displayed and be part of the art installation at Carnaval Magic. Art pieces made at a community workshop include works by children as young as four years old to works from high school artists.
Jennifer Connaughton, a clothing designer for the young, and owner and founder of FERD, has volunteered her design expertise to help transform the center. Using recycled materials such wine bottles, reclaimed wood and other donated products, she is helping create the Brazilian backdrop.
Carol Schepps, the leader of the silent auction, has organized more than 50 silent items to bid on. Sponsors for the event include Charles Schwab, Peter Ligeti, Katie Stokel, Marketfair, IBB Consulting Group LLC, McCaffrey’s Market, Noto Insurance, PNC Bank, Princeton Air, Bhatla Usab Real Estate, and the Sherman Team, and Sandler Training.
Kay Kalawar has led the food committee to secure area establishments and chefs to contribute South American inspired cuisine. Food and drink sponsors include Leblon, Flying Fish Brewery, Americana Diner, Seasons 52, Terra Learning, Tre Piani Restaurant, Efes, Taco Truck, Olive Garden, Sahara, Brothers Pizza, Lindt, Palace of Asia, Field Roast, Stop and Shop, and Bai.
Beverage sponsors including Leblon will re-create Brazil’s national cocktail, the Caipirinha, using a special twist of strawberries and basil. Flying Fish Brewery will provide the beer. Bai will be providing a non alcoholic selection of its antioxidant infusion beverages such as the Brasilia Blueberry to match the event’s theme. Recycled Bai bottles, painted by children, have been assembled into a 3D original piece for the event.
Last year’s Mardi Gras party raised $25,000 for the center, far exceeding Black’s expectations. “The success of last year’s Mardi Gras has led to a revival of sorts for the WWAC, says Agatha Siegel, this year’s chairperson. “Attracting and renewing the attention of many community members, a committee of volunteers was formed to help make this year an even bigger and better event. The goal is to raise needed funds but also to showcase the many different aspects and offerings of the WWAC for our community.”
Carnaval Magic, West Windsor Arts Council, 952 Alexander Road, West Windsor. Saturday, February 28, 7 p.m. Benefit for education programs for young children, youth, teens, and adults. $75. 609-716-1931. www.westwindsorarts.org.
