Monday Mashups: Seven Dinner Parties in One Night...Does It Add Up?

Everyone has a slightly different experience at the 92nd Street Y's spring gala—because the event isn't just one event. According to BizBash, it's seven dinner parties, all with distinct decor and lively conversation that evokes the storied arts center's programming year round.

After a cocktail reception, the 650 guests gathered in the Kaufmann Concert Hall, where the program began with an excerpt of Alvin Ailey's "Revelations," which premiered at the Y 60 years ago, plus remarks and a call for donations. From there, in what event designer Bryan Rafanelli of Rafanelli Events likened to a "military operation," guests moved by group into seven rooms throughout the facility, each with their own theme, decor, and programming.

In the Shakespeare, Continued room, guests heard a conversation with actor Nathan Lane and the writer and other cast members of Gary: A Sequel to Titus Andronicus. Decor had a romantic, Shakespearean feel with golden candelabras, unfussy floral arrangements, and jewel-colored seat cushions.

Another room, Inside Jewelry, presented a conversation between actress Debra Messing and Town & Country editor in chief Stellene Volandes. The room was wrapped in curtains of glitzy metallic streamers, and the two long tables featured smoked ghost chairs and bright florals in bud vases. Speakers in other rooms included former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, General David Petraeus, and 60 Minutes correspondent Lesley Stahl. All helped inspire the decor in the room.

The evening exceeded the organization's fundraising goals, according to Reibstein, bringing in $4.37 million to support its education and entertainment programs. So in this case, it does benefit an organization to host seven dinner parties in one night! Take a page from Rafanelli's book and devour the details of your next gala with this type of program!