It’s April in Paris: Bainbridge shops and fashionistas team for St. Cecilia runway romp
Published 1:20 pm Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Where are Bainbridge fashionistas most likely to be “Seine” and heard on Saturday night? Conger Hall, ma chère.
“We call it the biggest party on Bainbridge,” said Elizabeth Sewell, co-organizer of this year’s St. Cecilia fashion show. “It’s the one place where you can go dancing to a DJ on a runway. There are lots of fun elements to it.”
The sixth annual event, to benefit St. Cecilia Catholic School, will transform the hall into a Paris street scene – complete with a cafe at the top of the stage, an ongoing theatrical bit with the cafe owner, and an opening rendition of “I Love Paris” by singer Sophie Tschida.
Cocktails, hors d’oevres and desserts will get partygoers in the mood; during the show itself, models will strut local fashions from Adam & Eve, Kennedy & Kate, Rancho Winslow, Sweet Deal and Zia. Three shops will also join the lineup for the first time – Lindsley’s, Que Sarah and Bay Hay & Feed.
Thus the international theme, organizers say, comes with a strong underlying message: “Buy Bainbridge.”
At the after-party, returning DJ Brant Butte commences the disco, with a Euro vibe prevailing and French pop on the turntable.
“And nobody will understand it, but it will set a great atmosphere,” Sewell said.
One of the most rewarding things about rehearsing for the fashion show, Sewell added, has been seeing the models relax into the theater of the runway. As in past years, they’re all local and largely lay models, including school parents, teachers and community members. The SCCS principal will even make an appearance.
As to what Bay Hay & Feed’s specialty look will include, you must tune in to find out.
“There’s a wheelbarrow involved. And that’s all I’m going to say about that,” Sewell said.
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Now boarding
Get your “Passport to Paris” from 6:15 p.m. to 1 a.m. at St. Cecilia Church’s Conger Hall, 1310 Madison Ave. Tickets are $38/person, $44 at the door. Front row seats are $50/person, $60 at the door. Group rates are available. Call (206) 965-0042 or see www.saintceciliaschool.org for tickets and information.
