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Gateway to 'sparkle' at its cocktail party

Amongst all the glitz and glam, guests will take home one piece of original art

It promises to be a glittery affair showcasing original works of art, fine wine and fabulous hors d'ouvres.

It's the second annual Gateway Theatre's Cocktail pARTy, and it happens on June 21.

The sparkle-themed party features more than 110 pieces of juried art works donated by local artists, as well as from artists across the Lower Mainland and beyond.

"We have more than $55,000 worth of art and the caliber of the art work is truly fantastic - the art is amazing," said Debbie Tobin, co-chair of Gateway Theatre's Cocktail pARTy. "The diversity of the art and the quality has to be seen; the website just doesn't do them justice.

"When you see the art work on the walls, you are blown away at the talent."

Last year's inaugural event raised $14,000 and Tobin hopes this year to raise $18,000. All of the funds go directly towards the Gateway Theatre's Academy for the Performing Arts.

"Each floor in the theatre will be decorated differently. As people walk in, they will come in on the red carpet and be handed a glass of champagne," said Tobin. "The whole main floor is a Las Vegas look, complete with show girls and men in tuxedos and tails."

The second floor celebrates the disco era. The floor is transported back to the '70s with a purple and silver theme, including what the DJ and bartender will wear.

"The bartender told me he'll have the big hair and a fedora too," she quipped. "On the top floor, it's denim and diamonds.

"The floor-length tablecloths will be denim with sparkly jewels and chandeliers and lots of glitz."

An army of volunteers will start decorating the theatre early next week.

"We can't do it without all the incredible volunteers," Tobin added. "It takes us two days to transform the space."

During the evening, the distribution of the art works will happen. Ticket names are drawn 10 at a time until each ticket holder has chosen a piece.

"There are sculptures, 3-and 2-D art work and then, of course, oil and watercolour paintings," said Tobin. "Whatever art pieces remain are sold for $300 each. Last year, one man bought four more pieces.

"I'm blown away by the generosity of people in our community. All the food is donated from restaurants such as Tapenade Bistro, Mandalay Bay, Nooch Snack & Chill, Cravings Restaurant & Lounge, Gudrun and others."

The Gateway Theatre's second annual Cocktail pARTy happens Thursday, June 21 from 6 to 9 p.m. in the theatre, 6500 Gilbert Rd. The tickets for the theatre's premier fundraiser are $350 per couple and include one piece of original art work valued at $300 or more.

As well, there is a champagne reception, tapas dinner, tantalizing desserts and a martini bar and wine tasting. Only 100 tickets are sold for this event. For more information or to buy tickets, call the box office at 604270-1812 or visit www.gatewaytheatre.com.

mhopkins@richmond-news.com