Tag Archives: Mary Smithe

July 5, 2012 · 10:17 am

REESE WITHERSPOON & DIRECTOR ALEXANDER PAYNE CHARM CROWD AT GENE SISKEL FILM CENTER BENEFIT

…PLUS THERE’S A BIG NEW RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE IN TOWN, PARIS OPERA BALLET’S ELEGANT DEBUT AT THE HARRIS, GLAMOURCON RETURNS TO CHICAGO WITH PLAYMATES, PIN-UPS & MODELS, DESIGNER AZEEZA KHAN’S NOMINATION, NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!

As many of you know, I write a weekly column in the Chicago Tribune Sunday Magazine section and this Sunday’s Candid Candace featured the Gene Siskel Film Center benefit honoring Reese Witherspoon. Since I have limited space there (around 400 words), I’m going to tell you the WHOLE story right here! The night began with the largest bank of media I’ve ever seen at events of this type surrounding (though swarming would be a better word) the red carpet. I saw Bill Zwecker, Janet Davies, Jeff Conway, Dean Richards, the cute guy from “Extra” and more photographers than I knew even existed in our town! Everyone was in high anticipation to see this darling actress with such an amazing body of work and she didn’t disappoint. Her small frame hid her baby bump even though she joked about “feeling round.” When I asked her what her biggest challenge was filming “Walk the Line” – the film for which she won a Best Actress Oscar – she said it was “learning how to sing” and went on to talk about her seven months of lessons and sessions she had at T. Bone Burnett’s house. She was so unsure of her singing abilities that she called her lawyer at the start of filming to see if she could get out of the film. The answer, happily, was no! She went on to talk about the things she DID love about filmmaking saying, “I’ve had such a great career getting to learn new skills. I learned to ride an elephant in “Water for Elephants” and I got to play softball for another film (“How Do You Know”).” Reese was at the Film Center to accept the Renaissance Award, following in the footsteps of past honorees Jamie Foxx, Robert Downey, Jr., Nicole Kidman and George Lucas. Two-time Oscar-winning screenwriter and director Alexander Payne (who directed Reese in “Election”) conducted the Q & A with this petite actress but before the questions and retrospective of her films, a hilarious video was shown featuring past Renaissance Award winner, Robert Downey, Jr. and Gwyneth Paltrow. The video opened with Downey deadpanning into the camera, “I say the name and feel a burning in my loins but it’s not just because you’re the sexiest woman alive, it’s because of your talent, your gift. I’ve often thought about leaving my wife, Susan Downey, for you.” All the while he’s talking, Paltrow is trying to distract him. Downey turns to her and says, “Insecure newsflash! If you don’t heap compliments on them [actresses], they end up marrying rock stars.” It had the sell-out crowd roaring! (Downey and Paltrow clearly are friends and fans and Robert even donated a set visit to “Iron Man 3,” now filming in North Carolina, to the event’s auction.) During the Q & A with Payne, Reese talked about landing the lead in the “The Man in the Moon” when she was 14. She was living in Nashville and doing some community theatre. Her father saw an ad in the paper and they auditioned, thinking she might have ended up as an extra but, of course, she landed the lead. She went on to say, “I’ve never done interviews reviewing my career. Being pregnant, I hope I don’t get too emotional taking a walk down memory lane.” Film clips were shown from “Pleasantville,” “Election,” “Sweet Home Alabama,” “Water for Elephants,” “Legally Blonde” and “Walk the Line,” among others. Reese talked about attending Stanford for a year and said, “In retrospect, I’d wished I’d finished.” When asked how she chooses a role, she said, “I find out about the character and whether or not I could see myself in that role. Secondly, it’s about the director, not so much for comedies, but for dramas, I need a leader. It’s difficult for a woman to be able to do both comedy and drama – it’s a privilege to be able to do both.” When asked about staying in character for a role (a la Meryl Streep), she said, “It really doesn’t work staying in character if you have kids. You can’t go home and tell them to call you June.” Her favorite films "ever" are “Splendor in the Grass” and “Raising Arizona” and her favorite co-star was Rosie the elephant in “Water for Elephants.” (“She remained in character throughout the whole movie!” joked Reese.) Marlene Iglitzen, Gene Siskel’s widow, attended the event with her three beautiful children Kate, Callie and Will. Looking stunning in a full-length black Jean Paul Gaultier dress and Lanvin necklace, she said, “Not a day goes by that I don’t think of him. He would be so proud to see these people here tonight.” Marlene went on to say that her husband often described his movie critic job as “covering the American dream beat.” The black-tie crowd feasted on a delicious dinner with each course inspired by one of Reese’s films. There was the “Vanity” salad, the “June and Johnny Duo” (fish and beef) and “Sweet Homes of the South: Alabama, Mississippi and Pleasantville” (a whoopie pie, mud cake and roasted strawberries). Seen in the crowd were Marc Klutznick and Anita Liskey (co-chairs), Michelle Cucchiaro (Advisory Board and committee member), Eda Davidman and Barry Missner, Melissa Sage Fadim (Advisory Board member), Bill Marcus, Ellen Sandor (Chairman of the Board) and husband Richard, Rosie Levin (Advisory Board member) and husband Elliot, Roopa Weber (Advisory Board and committee member), Jamey Fadim, Jean de St. Aubin (Film Center Executive Director), Cynthia and Rich Varnes, Jim Mayhercy, Shirley and Dr. Walter Massey (President of SAIC), Daniel Bryant and Joe Trpik, Jeffrey Sprecher, Averill and Buddy Leviton, Kelly Loeffler, Camille Cook (Film Center founder), Tony Jones (past SAIC president), Kristina and Mike McGrath, Lynn and John McMahan, Paul Iacono, Andrea Schwartz and Dr. Steve Stryker, Diana Palomar and many others. The evening raised more than $340,000 to support programming at the Gene Siskel Film Center. Check out the website for more cool upcoming events! Check out my Watch312.com video below to see what Reese and Alexander had to say. Congrats again to the Gene Siskel Film Center on all of their wonderful programming and exciting events like this one! (Fabulous photos by Mila Samokhina.)

Well, it finally happened! After so much planning, hoping, wishing and fundraising, the world’s largest Ronald McDonald House is OPEN! I was honored to be there for this special celebration on a parking garage rooftop which was directly across from the House. It was so cool! Throughout the impressive program, more than 600 attendees could plainly see the purpose for this party. Wrapped in a giant bow, the House loomed large at 16 stories and 86 rooms. I remember when Ken Norgan first got me involved with RMHCCNI at the press party at Morton’s and I was just as thrilled then as I was this day! Emcee Mark Giangreco opened the ribbon cutting ceremony on June 26th – there were so many people there…thank goodness the real Chicago heat came later in the week! But on this day, nothing could dampen anyone’s spirits as 13-year-old Kate Wild sang the National Anthem (she will also be singing the anthem on opening day in Soldier Field.) Mary Agnes Laguatan (VP of Operations for RMHCCNI) gave a moving invocation and then Governor Quinn spoke before he had to rush off to meet with the First Lady. He declared this day “Ronald McDonald House Charities Day” in Chicago. “Long may it live!” he said. Next, Senator John Cullerton presented a proclamation from the Mayor, who ALSO named June 26th as RMHC Day in Chicago. Giangreco then jokingly introduced Jim Skinner (McDonald’s CEO) as the “Grand Imperial Quarter Pounder with Cheese.” Skinner thanked the crowd on "behalf of the 1.7 million people in the McDonald’s family." The Soul Children of Chicago, directed by Walt Whitman, gave a moving performance of “The Future’s Up to Me and You” (written by Nancy Slattery and Ira Antelis) that brought the crowd to tears. MaryAnne Smith (president of the Auxiliary Board for the House) spoke next, along with her adoring husband, Coach Lovie Smith. “As we drove down Grand, I could see the House. I said to Lovie, ‘It’s a palace, it’s a home, it feels like a home and now it’s working like a home.’ It’s what we tried to build.” Doug Porter (CEO of RMHCCNI) said, “Today’s ceremony is for you to recommit.” He called out people who were instrumental in the House’s success including Jim Murray (Founder of Ronald McDonald House in Philadelphia & Former Eagles' General Manager) and Joe Antunovich (House architect) among many others. Macy’s has been a HUGE supporter of the new House and has dedicated their Glamorama funds, raising more than $645K not including this year’s event, from the last three years to its building! (Speaking of Glamorama, I hope you can put Chicago’s biggest and best fashion show on your calendars! Friday, August 10th at the Harris Theater! A huge shout out and thank you to Macy’s!!! Where would we be without YOU???!!!! Following the rooftop ceremony, guests were whisked via trolley to the River East Art Center for a delicious reception! (For Glamorama tickets, click here and to view more pics, please click here!)

I must confess, I am a total loyalist to our Joffrey Ballet but I have to say the recent Paris Opera Ballet debut at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance brought tears to my eyes it was so hauntingly beautiful. The Theater hosted a gala celebration for the world’s oldest national ballet company on June 26th. Every notable, VIP, civic leader and arts lover in town attended this black tie gala that began with the performance and a cocktail reception at the Harris. More than 800 guests enjoyed the POB’s American debut of the iconic story ballet “Giselle.” “Giselle” was created in 1841 specifically for the POB and was written by poet Theophile Gautier, composed by Adolphe Adam and choreographed by Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot. The Paris Opera Ballet is considered the birthplace of classical ballet with origins that trace back to 1661, during the reign of King Louis XIV of France. The 154-member ballet company is considered the epitome of perfection, purity, artistry and technical acumen and, from the performance on opening night, I can certainly see why: This company hasn’t been to the U.S in 15 years and the full corps has NEVER performed in Chicago before so I was so proud to hear that the company chose Chicago as a debut destination with stops to follow at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and then Lincoln Center in New York. Second City? I think NOT! Michael Tiknis, president and CEO of the Harris, welcomed the sold out crowd, “It’s my pleasure to introduce the first performance ever of the Paris Opera Ballet in Chicago!” The Grant Park Symphony Orchestra accompanied the performance with Graff as the presenting sponsor. The Mayor commented, “It’s only fitting that the POB chose the city of Chicago as the first appearance of its North American tour. In my view, they’re picking the most American of American cities. I am committed to making Chicago a worldwide destination for arts and creativity.” Abby McCormick O’Neil, chairman of the Harris Theater’s Board of Trustees, said, “The opening night gala and performance support the ongoing mission of the Harris. Proceeds from this event will benefit its programs.” (One of their programs, Access Tickets, donated 200 free tickets to students who wouldn’t otherwise be able to attend.) Before the performance, Mayor Emanuel – a former dancer himself – greeted students from the Chicago High School for the Arts along with POB dancers and Artistic Director Brigitte Lefevre. Caryn and King Harris and Alexandra and John Nichols were presenting sponsors and chairs. Vice chairs included Francie Comer, Stephanie and John Harris, Mellody Hobson and George Lucas, Lindy and Michael Keiser, Anne and J. Christopher Reyes, Linda Johnson Rice and Shirley and Patrick Ryan. Sponsors for this event included Abby McCormick O’Neil and D. Carroll Joynes, Chauncey and Marion McCormick (Foundation), Hyatt Regency Chicago, Northern Trust and United Airlines. The post performance dinner was held in an elegant tent adjacent to the theater in Millennium Park. Two million was raised on this night to support Harris programming. Guests seen in the crowd included Joan Harris, Bill Kurtis and Donna LaPietra (Chairman of Millennium Park, Inc.), Sheila O’Grady and Jean-Luc Decaux, Francie Comer, Amelia and Alejandro Silva, Ken Shanoff, Chris Long, Marilyn Vitale, Pam Crutchfield, Phil Lumpkin, Ken Shanoff and Steve Young, Desiree Rogers, Kristina and Mike McGrath, Sonya Jackson, Jacqueline and Leon Kinloch, Julie Latsko, Martha Melman, Sonya Jackson, Helen Melchior, Ken Norgan, Sherren Leigh, Dori Wilson and Mary and Tim Smithe among many others. (Fab fotos by Mila Samokhina and Bob Carl…click here for more pics!)

Mark your calendars now for Glamourcon 53, a lively celebration and marketplace of the glamour arts that features dozens of Playboy Playmates from FIVE decades as well as many other past and present glamour and pin-up models. Vendors sell trading cards, autographs, catalogs, magazines, books, photos, original pin up art, videos and so much more. This year, attendees will get a rare opportunity to meet two “legends” of Playboy: former photo directors Gary Cole and Jeff Cohen. For all of you budding glamour photogs, this is a great opportunity to have your photos and portfolios critiqued by the experts! They will also be orchestrating a first time EVER Playmate Photo Special! A photography session will be offered with Playmates Beth Williams (Miss August 2012) and Shelby Chesnes (Miss July 2012), who are both appearing in Playboy’s July/August double issue which will be on newsstands this month. Sign up to attend a Saturday night VIP party at the Joynt (located at 650 N. Dearborn) with Playmates, Special Edition Models and other Playboy models! Glamourcon presents a great opportunity to meet your favorite vintage and contemporary pin-up stars and get their autographs. I love this event and especially love seeing my fellow Playmates at this special Glamourcon Reunion…hope to see you at Crowne Plaza O'Hare on August 4th and 5th! (For tickets and more info, please click here.)

A special shout out and congrats to beautiful fashion designer, Azeeza Kahn! She has just been nominated for the Rising Star Award by the Fashion Group International! Fingers crossed, Azeeza! Ikram, are you watching??!!!

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday that included good food, friends and fun! I will be taking the next week off and will see you again on July 16th!

Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. If you missed the Summer Lovin’ party at the MCA co-hosted by Chicago magazine and the Auxiliary Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital, check out all the fun here from Watch312.com!!!

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STARS SHINE IN CHICAGO FOR THE HUGO TELEVISION AWARDS

…PLUS VAN CLEEF & ARPELS’ GRANDE SOIREE, CHICAGO RED DRESS PARTY, LADYBUG BASH, A THEATER COMPANY YOU SHOULD KNOW, WTTW DEBUT'S HOT NEW SHOW, NOMI’S HOT LIST HONOR, WATCH312.COM VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!

Beyond the International Film Festival and now in its 48th year, the Hugo Television Awards is an international television competition that culminated in a grand gala at the Radisson Blu Aqua recently honoring the best television commercials and productions from nine countries around the world. Co-hosted by Cinema/Chicago and the IFF, the highlight of the night was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to actor Kelsey Grammer. Best known for his award-winning role as Dr. Frasier Crane, among countless other roles, the evening’s tribute to actor/producer/director Grammer included video highlights and the award presentation by his longtime "Frasier" co-star, John Mahoney. Earlier in the year, Grammer received the Golden Globe for Best Actor in the Chicago-based drama series “Boss” as Mayor Tom Kane. As Dr. Frasier Crane, he played the celebrated character in three television series ("Wings," "Cheers," and "Frasier") for more than 20 years. He’s won four Emmy nominations, eight Golden Globe nominations and 16 SAG nominations and he is the first actor in TV history to receive multiple Emmy nods for performing the same role on three series! (Not surprising, since he received his training at the prestigious Juilliard School of the Performing Arts.) Michael Kutza, founder and artistic director of Cinema/Chicago and the Chicago IFF, said, “For decades Kelsey Grammer has entertained us — across genres and media he has proven himself to be a remarkable talent. From the stage to the screen, from behind the camera to our television, Grammer has provided audiences with some of our most beloved, iconic characters. We are thrilled to honor him for his television work at the Hugos.” Judging from the banks of media at the event, everyone agreed! We could barely squeeze our Watch312.com cameras onto the red carpet but we managed to get some great interviews with Mahoney, Grammer and Grammer’s “Boss” co-star Rotimi Akinosho. Kelsey was accompanied by his beautiful wife, Kayte (whose name he had tattooed on his abdomen that day to much fanfare), and who is expecting twins. She couldn’t have been more gracious and when he was asked what his inspiration was replied, “She is.” They never stopped holding hands and he kissed her at every opportunity. It was so sweet. Following the red carpet, guests were ushered into the ballroom after enjoying a cocktail reception. Darling co-hosts Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini (of “Windy City Live”) welcomed the crowd of 400 and introduced event founder, Michael Kutza, who said, “It was funny thinking back to 1965 when Mr. Leo Burnett himself helped me start the TV Festival and to see so many awards going to some fantastic Leo Burnett spots tonight!” Leo Burnett had the most wins of the evening (24), winning Silver Hugos for “Active Duty” (a heartwarming Hallmark commercial) and “Mayhem” (a series of Allstate commercials featuring actor Dean Winters). Other top winners included a Gold Hugo for the documentary series, “Have You Heard from Johannesburg” (about anti-apartheid in South Africa) directed by Connie Field. Director Magdalena Lazarkiewicz (“The Deep End”) traveled all the way from Poland to receive her Gold Hugo in the Dramatic Series category. David Hyde Pierce also made a surprise video appearance telling Grammer, “I’m so frustrated that you’re there tonight being honored and I can’t stop them!” (He went on to say that he did hope Grammer ran for office.) Production company powerhouse Optimus won the Commitment to Excellence Award while the Audience Choice award went to Burrell Communications for “A Frosty Affair,” a McDonald’s commercial about meeting someone special over a McFrappe. The after-party continued in the Felini Bar with everyone from Hugo winners to John Mahoney taking turns in the photo booth. Event producer Alex Kopecky did a great job putting the whole show together and Carol Fox and Associates’ Carly Leviton and Nick Harkin did an outstanding job as well. I can’t wait to see the surprises Michael Kutza brings to Chicago next! (Great pics by Mila Samokhina and be sure to check out our Watch312.com video of this cool event below!)

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Legendary jewelers, Van Cleef & Arpels, recently hosted “une grande soiree” for 100 lucky Chicagoans to celebrate the opening of their beautiful new boutique in the Drake Hotel. Van Cleef & Arpels’ handsome president/CEO of the Americas and worldwide creative director Nicolas Bos and chic store director Sheryl Dyer were on hand to meet guests and wax poetic about this iconic brand that has been a favorite of celebrities and royalty for decades. Nicolas Luchsinger (VP of retail operations for the Americas), Brent Nestor (senior VP of sales) and Kristina Buckley (VP of communications) also flew in for this grand occasion. For over a century, the Place Vendome location has been at the forefront with a signature style and a mastery of the craft of fine jewelry inspired by the longstanding themes of the House, nature, couture and the arts. I was so proud that Watch312 was the exclusive media outlet for this event. As high-profile guests mixed and mingled in the exquisite jewel box boutique, it was the jewelry that was the star of the night. The pieces are never as they seem, with earrings that can be worn as brooches, necklaces that can be reassembled into bracelets or the famous zip necklace that is an engineering marvel, all of the jewelry is created with extreme attention to detail and of the highest quality gems and stones. I was thrilled to wear an exquisite necklace and earring set from Oiseaux de Paradis Volutes collection for the night and felt like Cinderella until the very end when I turned back into a pumpkin. It is true that high jewelry is empowering…I even felt taller. 🙂 The event was co-hosted by the lovely MaryAnne Smith, a champion of the soon-to-be-opened Ronald McDonald House at Lurie Children’s Hospital on June 26th, and Lesli Falk, chair of Children Memorial’s Medical Research Institute Council. After cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the boutique, guests were led to the Palm Court which had been transformed by Tom Kehoe into a Parisian salon complete with languid models draped over ivory chairs in chic gowns created by French designer Gaspard Yurkievich. In earlier times, women’s fashions were designed to match their jewelry as was the case on this night. Factor models floated around the room showcasing millions of dollars’ worth of exquisite gems to appreciative guests as they sipped champagne in this flower-filled room to the sounds of a string quartet. It was truly surreal. And as if this weren’t enough, we were then ushered into the Gold Coast Room for the main event. Sharp intakes of breath emanated from every guest upon seeing this already magnificent room transformed as if for Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee dinner! I’ve never seen anything like it. A long, single table was brimming with flowers, candles, crystal and silver while the sparkling chandeliers above had been dimmed and spotlighted with pale colored lights. The room literally glowed…I heard several people mumbling that “had they known this event would be like this, they would’ve dressed better!” And the menu seemed to be something that would be served at Buckingham Palace, too, beginning with quenelles of Lake Erie Pike, diver scallops, morel mushrooms and Beluga caviar. Main course: Kobe Filet and foie gras, local farmed asparagus, haricot verts, roasted shallot pommes Dauphines with Bordeaux reduction. Dessert included a trio of miniature desserts, charlotte russe, hand churned salted caramel ice cream and passion fruit crème brulee. (And the sweetest part, pun intended, the plates all carried this message: “To Chicago, Love Paris.”) Wines served featured Pascal Jolivet, Sancerre (Loire France 2010), Chapoutier Estate “La Petite Ruche” (Crozes Hermitage 2007) and, of course, Taittinger Brut La Francaise (Champagne NV). Guests enjoying the evening and admiring the collections included William Wolf, Martha Melman, Leslie Prizant Goodman, Laura Schwartz, Greg Hyder, Linda Yu, Sylvia Perez, Suzy and Al Friedman, Melissa and Brian Babcock, Carol Beitler, Heather Farley, Paul Rehder, Greg Hyder, Toni and Rick Canada, Susanna Negovan, Mary and Tim Smithe, Heather Farley, Sherren Leigh and Sonya Jackson among others. The new 1,600-square-foot boutique is designed to resemble a luxurious Parisian apartment in muted shades of white and grey. You have to see it to believe it! Long may you reign Van Cleef & Arpels! (Great pics by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr…click here for more!)

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Chicago’s second annual Red Dress Party was held in the Loop recently at the beautiful Joffrey Towers, located at 10 E. Randolph. More than 300 people donned their favorite red fashions to benefit the Aids Foundation of Chicago and the Equality Project. This party began in the 1990's when two gentlemen who were dating discovered they had both contracted HIV/AIDS. They swore to one another they would each wear red dresses to their partner's funeral. From this promise the concept of the Red Dress Party began. Currently, there are Red Dress parties all over the U.S. from Seattle to Chicago. The highlight of the evening was a performance by Beverly McClellan, who was a contestant in the Final 4 on the first season of the popular NBC show, “The Voice.” “The Voice” introduced Beverly to the world as a singer of stunning power and range comparable to Etta James, Janis Joplin and Melissa Etheridge to name a few talents whose legacies she evokes. The party also included a dramatic aerial act and a decadent VIP Red Carpet reception hosted by the beloved Miss Lucy Foozie. Ginger Zee (“Good Morning America” meteorologist) and actor/singer Christian Carabias were the hosts for the evening. Event chair and board president Kyler Ashton Powell sang a memorable duet with McClellan to Cee Lo Green’s “F*ck You” song. Dedicated host committee members included Adiat Baker, Katie Cahnmann, Kyle Hillman, Terrence Chappell, Marco Foster, Julianne Glatz, Cece Gonzales, Melinda Joseph, Haley Lertola, Jerry Nunn, Ramsey Jay Prince, Arabel Alva Rosales, Mark Roscoe and Hilary Schwartz. (To see ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr, please click here and to donate and learn more about this great cause, please visit www.reddressparty.org.)

Don’t miss this year’s second annual Ladybug Bash, “Stars & Cars: Hollywood Through the Ages” on Thursday, May 17th at Grossinger City Autoplex, located at 1530 N. Dayton from 7 to 11 p.m. This event benefits Atia’s Project Ladybug Fund, which was named after a small, brave princess named Atia, a patient undergoing cancer treatment at Comer Children’s Hospital at the University of Chicago. Out of concern for the various non-medical necessities of Comer’s patients and their families, Project Ladybug Fund was established to help meet some of those needs, in the hopes of improving the lives of patients and their families. The event will include a red carpet reception hosted by Project Ladybug founder Dina Manzo with special guests Ana Belaval (WGN’s “Around Town” reporter), Meg Caswell (host of HGTV’s “Meg’s Great Rooms”), Ted Brunson (producer and host of WGN’s “Chicago’s Best,” Alpana Singh (host of WTTW’s “Check Please”), Amber Podell (Ms. Illinois 2012) and Nancy To (Miss Illinois 2012). For tickets and more info, please click here!

Congrats to the Polarity Ensemble Theatre group on a wonderful production of "Tom Jones" at Wicker Park’s Josephinum Academy. Adapted by David Hammond and directed by Maggie Speer, the six-week run garnered wonderful press from the Chicago Tribune as well as Time Out Chicago! Polarity Ensemble Theatre was founded in 2004 by Richard Engling, Ann Keen and Irv Gorman with the mission of presenting work consisting of the classic and the brand new. It is dedicated to working with Chicago area writers and theatre artists. In addition to producing live theatre, Polarity is also a publisher, having produced its first volume of plays in 2006. Its production of "Hamlet" at the Athenaeum Theater prompted the Chicago Reader to name Polarity the 2008 Best Emerging Theatre Company. Congrats to Charley Jordan and the entire, amazing cast! To follow upcoming PET events, please click here!

More congratulations are in order for the NoMI Spa at the Park Hyatt! Conde Nast Traveler’s Hot List – the ultimate insider’s guide to the hottest new hotels, spas and restaurants of the year – has included NoMI Spa in the May issue! To celebrate this recognition, a complimentary glass of champagne will be offered to guests booking spa appointments during the month of May! Just mention #HotList2012 upon booking your appointment! Congrats, congrats, congrats!

There are more parties, fundraisers and events coming up this week than I’ve ever seen! Mark your calendars for the following, if you have the energy!

Thursday May 3rd: Common Threads' “Come Paint It Black Tie” Fundraiser will be held at Nellcote, located at 833 W. Randolph. Tickets are $1,000; visit www.commonthreads.org for more info.

Sunday, May 6th: Joffrey 10th Anniversary Celebration Gala will be held at Palmer House Hilton beginning with a 6:30 p.m. performance at the Auditorium Theatre and followed by the Gala Dinner, Arpino Angel Award presentation and commemorative video salute. For the first time, the Women’s Board will partner with the Junior Auxiliary Board for a Grand Finale Party following in the Empire Room to celebrate the end of the season for all of the dancers. Tickets are $600 for Gala and $110 for the Grand Finale Party; visit www.joffrey.org/gala and www.joffrey.org/grandefinale for more info.

Sunday, May 6th: See Tom Dreesen’s “Sinatra” at the Laugh Factory, located at 3175 N. Broadway, for an evening of standup and storytelling of Sinatra. Tickets are $45; call 773.327.3175.

Monday, May 7th: Hubbard St. Dance Chicago’s Spotlight Ball, will take place at the Chicago Hilton. Tickets are $600 by calling 312.553.2000.

Tuesday, May 8th: St. Jude Four Stars of Chicago Restaurant Extravaganza (its 50th anniversary!) will take place at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers. Tickets are $350 and includes top chef tastings. Call 773-784-6704 for more info.

Wednesday, May 9th: WTTW/WFMT “The British Are Coming” with emcee Jeremy Irons begins with a 60-minute onstage celebration at the Harris Theater (Chicago Children’s Choir, Joffrey Ballet, Under the Streetlamp, etc.) followed by dinner on the Rooftop Terrace. Tickets are $500; call 773.509.5434 for more info.

Thursday, May 10th: The Service Club of Chicago’s Mad Hatter Luncheon will take place at the Chicago Club. Tickets are $100; learn more at www.serviceclubofchicago.org.

Thursday, May 10th: Taste for the Arts’ 30th Anniversary Gala will be hosted by Bill Kurtis, Donna LaPietra, Rick and Deann Bayless at the Harris Theater beginning at 6:30 p.m. Chicago Academy for the Arts students will perform on the Rooftop Terrace featuring “Top Chef” chefs (think Stephanie Izard and Rick Bayless) serving up their specialties. Tickets are $350.

Saturday, May 12th: Alzheimer’s Association 25th Anniversary Rita Hayworth Gala starts 6:30 p.m. at Hilton Chicago. Tickets to the “Lights Camera, Glamour” homage to the films of Rita Hayworth are $500 and can be purchased at www.alz.org/galas/chicago or by calling 312.335.5768.

Saturday, May 12th: RMHC Big Mac Under Glass will be held at the Aragon Ballroom and will star KC & the Sunshine Band. Tickets are $375 at www.ronaldhousechicago.org.

Saturday, May 19th: Campfire Ball will take place at Venue One (located at 1044 W. Randolph) from 7 to 11 p.m. benefitting Children’s Oncology Services will serve all of your favorite camp treats including s’mores, grilled cheese and hot dogs, with DJ and campfire sing-a-longs. Tickets are $85 advanced and $100 at the door; call 312.235.6836 for more info.

I hope to see you at one of more of these wonderful events around town! In the meantime, I hope to see you again next week!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Congrats to my talented and gorgeous friend Colleen Kelly on her new WTTW show, “Family Travel with Colleen Kelly.” The premiere is Friday, May 4th at 8:30 p.m. and is the only show WTTW has chosen for a national launch in 2013! And, if you don’t know, Colleen is Catie Keogh’s sister (“24/7”) – must’ve been something in the water! Congrats to TWO talented and beautiful women in the world of media!!

RPM ITALIAN OPENING BRINGS OUT CHICAGO’S WHO’S WHO!

…PLUS CHICAGO DESIGNERS AT NY’S EMERGE! SHOW, ZOOLA IS OOH-LA-LA, AUTO SHOW HIGHLIGHTS, WINDY CITY WEST’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY, TAVERNITA OPENS BIG, NEW WATCH312 VIDEOS AND MORE!

When the Melmans speak, everyone listens…especially when it comes to new restaurants! They are the experts, as the opening of their latest venture, RPM Italian Restaurant, with reality stars Bill and Giuliana Rancic (E! Channel’s “Fashion Police” and Style Network’s “Giuliana & Bill”) proved on Saturday night, February 18th. After months of planning, this new restaurant, in partnership with acclaimed Chef Doug Psaltis, Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises, the Rancics and restaurateurs RJ, Jerrod and Molly Melman, will be the new “IT” spot for the Windy City. The star studded crowd of 500 made your head swivel at every sighting. Seen on the scene were Coach Lovie Smith and his beautiful wife MaryAnne, Bears cornerback Charles Tillman and his wife Jackie, Windy City Live's Val Warner, Ryan Chiaverini, Nina Chantelle and Eric Himel, the Sun-Times’ and Fox Chicago’s Bill Zwecker, Ronald McDonald Charities’ Doug Porter, Sun-Times columnist Richard Roeper and Sarah Cooley, ABC’s Sylvia Perez, former Illinois State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias with Tara Flocco, fitness expert Shea Vaughn, Miss Illinois Ashley Hooks, The Mix’s Kathy Hart, Bears defensive tackle Matt Toeaina, Michigan Avenue Magazine’s Susanna Negovan, Sonya Jackson, Tim and Mary Smithe, the Landon twins, NBC 5’s Marion Brooks, Stefan Holt and Alicia Roman, Bob Sirott and Marianne Murciano, Watch312.com’s Bob and Kim Mills and Lindsay, Erica and Stevie Hoey, Paul Iacono, Cindy Burns, Catie Keogh and Jeff Conway of “24/7,” designer Azeeza Khan, Lisa Frame, NBC's Marcus Riley, artist Jesus Salgueiro, Justin Jacobson, Vincent Anzalone, Karen and Marvin Herman, BOKA
Group's Kevin Boehm, Andrea and Laura Schwartz, Amalie Drury and JC Steinbrunner among so many others. Susanna Negovan commented that if a bomb had dropped on this place this night, Chicago would have to start over! The sexy 8,000-foot space at 52 W. Illinois (in the old Ben Pao spot) was designed by NYC based Monolayer. Its chic, modern and sophisticated décor is set in tones of black, white and grey and is ideal for dinner or late night. And I can guarantee you, the bar scene will be something to behold. Acclaimed bartender Paul McGee (director of cocktail development for Lettuce Entertain You) has designed signature cocktails as well as created an expansive list of wines that include more than 100 American and Italian vintners. The restaurant will also include a six-seat Amaro bar and offer a menu of digestives – true to an authentic Italian dining experience. The menu presents modern Italian cuisine with a nod to the classics and will include more than a dozen freshly prepared in-house pastas. A highlight will be Mama DePandi’s Bucatini Pomadoro – a much-loved recipe from Giuliana’s mother! – duck angolotti with black mission figs, short rib pappardelle, taleggio and black truffle tortellini, whole wood-grilled Branzino, lobster caprese, wood grilled octopus, gnocchi gorgonzola al forno as well as a selection of prime steaks, chops and slow-roasted meats. Chef Doug Psaltis brings a wealth of experience to this project having earned three stars from the New York Times and a Michelin star while running the kitchen of NY’s Country restaurant. Psaltis has also worked in some of the world’s most esteemed restaurants including Alain Duscasse at the Essex House in NY, Ducasse’s three Michelin star restaurant in Monaco, Le Louis XV, Mix in NY, and Thomas Keller’s French Laundry in Napa Valley. Psaltis said, “Our focus throughout the restaurant is on offering great product and handcrafted items. The process is traditional, the spirit is Italian and the feel of the space and the food is modern.” Giuliana said, “Bill and I knew we wanted to work with the best so we’re excited to have teamed up with the Melmans and partner with one of the country’s most accomplished chefs. Doug has really done an amazing job creating our menu. Everything he cooks is delish so it was hard to narrow down our final choices!” Fans and foodies alike can get a behind-the-scenes look at the restaurant’s planning process and opening as the details unfold in Season 5 of the Rancics’ hit Style Network show, “Bill and Giuliana,” premiering Monday, April 2nd at 8 p.m. In the meantime, check out the opening night action below on “Candid Candace Chicago” on Watch312.com – buon appetito! And to vote for your favorite “Candid Candace Chicago” celebrity interview, please click here!

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The Chicago Auto Show closed this Sunday and was another crowd pleaser with more than 8,000 people attending on opening night alone! The 21st First Look for Charity gave the black-tie-mandatory crowd a chance to view more than 1,000 vehicles before the 10-day show opened to the public. Eighteen local non-profits benefited from this night that raised over $1.2 million for charities and included the 100 Club of Chicago, Boys & Girls Clubs, Catholic Charities, The Cradle Foundation and Misericordia. With auto show covering over 1.2 million square feet of space at McCormick Place, this show is NOT high heel friendly but the people at Cadillac provided pink slippers and foot massages at their gorgeous booth that also highlighted the Ciel, their dramatic new concept car. Blues Traveler performed while guests meandered through the space and enjoyed many interactive exhibits including a Jeep Wrangler obstacle course (one for kiddies, too), a Chevy Volt electric car ride, a playing card table at Scion and a Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 engine experience among others. You could even renew your driver's license at the Secretary of State's booth! Twenty restaurants participated including Fogo de Chao, 676 Restaurant & Bar at the Omni, Andy's Frozen Custard, Devon Seafood, Roy's Restaurant, Real Urban BBQ and David Burke's Primehouse. Cadillac donated two outstanding and much coveted raffle prizes: The first prize was won by Jill Nelson of Wheeling who will be driving a 2012 Escalade soon and the second prize, donated by Chicagoland Cadillac Dealers, was a Cadillac SRX, won by Homer Glen's Richard Onik. And to make these prizes even more exciting, a year of free gas was included! Notables onstage for this giveaway included emcee Alison Rosati, Larry Wert, Steve Foley, Jr. (auto show chairman), Dave Sloan (general manager) and Paul Brian (director of communications). Since First Look for Charity's inception in 1992, this event has raised more than $34 million for Chicago area non-profits. To see ALL event pics by Mila Samokhina, please click here and to view “Candid Candace Chicago” video coverage on Watch312.com, please see below!!!)

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Dionne Williams has done it again! Her third Emerge! Fashion Runway Show provided a platform for emerging designers to showcase their work during New York Fashion Week and has grown quicker than anyone could’ve imagined! Fashion legend Andre Leon Talley was honored at the show held on February 14th at the Broad Street Ballroom. He was presented with his award by legendary designer and president of the CFDA, Diane Von Furstenberg. The spectacular program was hosted by actress Tracee Ellis Ross with co-host model Chavis Aaron. More than 500 guests attended and included retail buyers, media, celebrities and fashion influencers. This season’s elite group of designers included Elie Kuame (Elie Kuame Couture), Michael Alan Stein (The Michael Alan Stein Collection), Gordana Rasic and Omar Villalobos (GOCA Designs), Terri Stevens (Funkinbeautiful Design), Jahi Fitzgerald (Evoli Faccion) and Barbara Bates (Barbara Bates Designs). For more information on this exciting, must-attend event, please visit www.EmergeFashionNYC.com and to view ALL event pics, please click here!

The Women’s Board of the Lincoln Park Zoo held its 10th annual ZooLa fundraiser in the stunning residence of Elizabeth Foster and Michael Walsh on Wednesday, February 8th – an event that earned over $180,000 to ensure that Lincoln Park Zoo remains free and open to everyone year round. During the cocktail hour, Chicago artist Francine Turk created an oil-on-canvas original to be auctioned later, while guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres by J & L Catering. The event was co-chaired by Susan Flynn, Mary MacGregor and Kim Theiss. Also in attendance were WB president Abby Zanarini, Lincoln Park Zoo president Kevin Bell and a host of friends of the zoo. John Walcher of Leslie Hindman Auctioneers led the live auction that included lively bidding for a Chanel package. This unique offering included Chanel Fine Jewelry Planete earrings in white gold, diamonds and South Sea pearls plus a private tour of Coco Chanel’s private apartment in Paris. Other packages included a chance to join "Project Runway" winner Christian Siriano at his show during NY Fashion Week as well as a Masters Golf package courtesy of Intersport. (To view ALL event pics, please click here.)

Don’t miss Windy City West celebrating 25 years of Chicagoans in entertainment in LA! This event, produced by Brenda Sexton’s Chicago Link Productions, will feature comedian Tom Dreesen as the emcee at RJ and Jerrod Melman’s popular LA-based restaurants, M Street Kitchen and Stella Rossa Pizza Bar. On Monday, March 5th, many of the original founders of Windy City West will host a private event for 350 VIP guests where they plan to honor Cubs’ chairman Tom Ricketts. Ricketts will receive the 2012 Windy City West “Man of the Year” award recognizing his many contributions to Chicago sports and commerce. The event was founded by Chicago writer/producer Ginny Weissman, Tom Dreesen and Rich Melman 25 years ago as a “culinary camaraderie,” a simple annual get-together for fellow Chicagoans yearning for a “taste of home, and now attracts some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. Watch this space for further coverage of this annually exciting event!

Congrats to darling Chef Ryan Poli on the opening of his new restaurant, Tavernita, at 151 W. Erie! Owned and operated by Mercadito Hospitality, this restaurant features the world-class cuisine of chef/partner Poli and embodies the flavors of Spain and Latin America! Opening night attracted more than 500 fans to this hotspot! Can’t wait to try it – congrats Chef Poli!

Wow, Chicago is exploding with hot new restaurants and lots of excitement, as you can see! Thanks for letting me bring you to the party! Hope you enjoyed the ride and will be back next week for more Windy City fun!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Please check out this eSmiles program benefitting the new Ronald McDonald House! It’s an easy way for them to make $10,000! Just email a note, card or photo everyday from your emails and your message will be posted in the family room for all of the families to enjoy! For details, please visit www.hpesmiles.com or send your message to RMHChicagoCNI@eprintesmiles.com .