Arts Garage, the cultural funhouse in Delray Beach, is once again putting on its annual fundraiser, Grunge & Glamour. But this time, the team is doing things a little differently.
The president of Arts Garage, Alyona Aleksandra Ushe, said the event was moved from the fall to February 28 to match up with the arts season. They also wanted to make the event more relaxed so their guests could feel comfortable enough to come in shorts and sandals or go all out and wear a costume.
The big unveil of the night is the org's recently expanded space. About a month ago, the group went from hosting events in a 5,500-square-foot space to and 11,000 square-foot-area. Now that the venue has doubled in size, Ushe said they plan to use it for bigger events, including this casual, classy fundraiser.
"We are thrilled that the timing of our expansion coincides with our Grunge & Glamour celebration," said Ushe. "This is a momentous time for Arts Garage. While the additional space is still a work in progress, it will give our patrons an inside view of what's to come."
Arts Garage is also going to tear down a wall and move the stage away from the corner windows so that passersby can more easily see the featured entertainment. Additionally, the entrance to Arts Garage will be moved to the main street of Pineapple Grove, providing easier access to patrons.
And for the big night, there will be plenty of music to entertain you while you explore the new space. Toots Lorraine & the Traffic will headline, but there will also be performances by the Quiet Villagers and guitarist Julius Sanna.
Toots Lorraine was actually the inspiration for the "Retro Fusion" theme, since the band plays jazz, blues, and rock. Guests are encouraged to don attire from the '40s to '70s, but Ushe said she really just wants people to be creative with what they wear.
If the band, retro theme, new space, and incredible decorations don't draw you in, then maybe the food and prizes will. Arts Garage is giving guests a "Taste of Delray" by showcasing dishes from local restaurants, including Buddha Sky Bar, the Cabana, Ellie's '50s Diner, and Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza. They'll be serving hors d'oeuvres and a buffet-style main course.
To win the grand prize of an entire year's worth of Arts Garage concerts, shows, and events, guests must purchase raffle tickets for $5 each or six for $20. The prize is worth over $15K.
It's also inspiring to know that all the proceeds from Grunge & Glamour are going toward a good cause. The money will support the organization's educational arts programs that are ongoing throughout the year. As a special tribute to its students, select kids will be performing onstage during the evening as well.
"This is a great event to explore Arts Garage for the first time," Ushe said. "And for folks who have been here before, they will have as much fun as they are accustomed to. There will be a lot of great food, good people, amazing music... And we are supporting a fantastic class of kids and their educational programs."
Grunge & Glamour fundraiser, 7 p.m., Saturday, February 28, Arts Garage, 180 NE First St., Delray Beach. Tickets start at $100. Visit artsgarage.org, or call 561-450-6357.
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