Elizabeth Foyt: Local developers host Soiree for Philharmonic

Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2000 | 10:08 a.m.

Elizabeth Foyt's social column appears Wednesdays. Reach her at elizabethfoyt@prodigy.net.

Kitty and Ron Boeddeker were hosts of a glorious night of musical entertainment in the rotunda at South Shore Golf Club, the newly opened membership club at Lake Las Vegas. Under the soaring dome guests were invited to indulge first in fine wines, champagnes and delectable foods, and ultimately in the pleasure of the wondrous songs performed by soprano Heather Neill and her husband, baritone Stuart Neill. The handsome couple, who are regularly toasted in their appearances at New York's Lincoln Center, other national venues and on their European tours, were in Las Vegas to visit Heather's parents, George and Pamela Dials.

This select evening, presented with the sponsorship of Cartier and Mariam Afshai, managing director of its local store, is second in the Soirees 2000-2001 Series for the Las Vegas Philharmonic. Guests delighted to be in attendance included Dawn Woodhouse with Bill Greaves, Art and C.J. Woolston, Mary Jane and Anthony Reed, Rochell and Farid Matraks and Malcolm Boot with Carol Russell, as well as Frank and Mary Mioli, Dr. Neil Carmena, Diane Hart, Sharon Bader and Helga Zachbauer. Accompanist Barbara Riske was masterful as she played the enormous grand piano for the program introduced by Philharmonic member Bill Marion. Selected were favorites from "La Traviata," "La Boheme" and "West Side Story."

The Boeddekers, the developers of the exquisitely planned Lake Las Vegas, were assisting in hosting duties by Philharmonic founders Andrew and Susan Tompkins. Sharing commentary and musical notes were Brad and Pat Nelson, Wendy and Richard Plaster, Henry Harris, Steve Shapiro, Harriet and Fred Cox, Nan Kilkeary, Rod and Marilyn LaRocque and others. The Soiree Series is open to all music patrons, with further details by calling 258-5438.

Arts luncheon

A note from Angie Wallin reminded us of the approaching Nevada Arts Advocates quarterly Arts Awareness Luncheon, slated for noon on Tuesday at the Stardust's conference center. Certain to put guests in a holiday mood, the richness of the program will include a performance by the celebrated Green Valley High School madrigal singers, each of them dressed in well-researched costumes of the Renaissance.

Paul Hesselink, dean of Nevada School of the Arts, will be featured speaker for this organization that brings together all sectors of the arts community. Roger Peltyn, state chairman, will preside at this luncheon and encourages the public to make reservations. Luncheon cost is $27 per person; for advance reservations call 362-8885.

Tea and tutus

Always a favorite and poised to open Dec. 14 for a two-week run, "The Nutcracker" will be presented by Nevada Ballet Theatre at UNLV's Judy Bayley Theatre. Coupled with the family favorite will be several Sugar Plum Parties and an elegant Snowflake Tea. Arranged to give children a sense of staging and the grandeur of performance, the Sugar Plum Parties are held on stage and allow for easy conversation and photos with cast members, and feature a delightful selection of holiday cookies and punch.

The Snowflake Tea, done in a more formal style, will be hosted at UNLV's Tam Alumni Center with tea and finger foods offered, as well as time to meet the cast and take pictures. Tickets are limited, with a recommendation to call soon for reservations through the UNLV box office at 895-2787.