The Darien Times

Opus celebrates 15 years with a ‘Crystal Ball’

Tuesday, February 14, 2012 12:33 PM

From an ultra-hip auctioneer to a jet setting DJ and modern venue, Opus for Person-to-Person will make an unforgettable splash at its annual spring benefit. Named the "Crystal Ball" to celebrate Opus' 15th anniversary, the gala will take place on Saturday, March 31, at the Loading Dock in Stamford. Invitations will be mailed in mid-February, and tickets are expected to sell out quickly.

Guests will be treated to a festive cocktail hour, dancing and gourmet dinner, set against a backdrop of shimmering crystal with accents of bright orange, silver and white. Miami-based DJ Frank Delour, a former music producer, will entertain the crowd with his signature musical blend that has impressed celebrity clients like Justin Timberlake, Richard Gere, Alicia Keys, David and Victoria Beckham, Ralph Lauren, Bergdorf Goodman, Calvin Klein and Vogue.

"Not the typical gala," said Jen Forlizzi, one of the event chairmen along with Betsy Hendrickson and Kristin Levinson. "Since this is our 15th anniversary celebration, we want this ball to feel very unique, representative of the special milestone and all the organization has achieved over the years."

Proceeds of the event will directly support Darien-based Person-to-Person. Fundraising from the gala and other events throughout the year enables Opus to help Person-to-Person assist more than 22,400 individuals in need from neighboring communities on an annual basis. Thanks to the generosity of our corporate sponsors, the Crystal Ball is already poised to be a success. Sponsorships are in the process of being secured, and this year's initial list of sponsors includes Atlantic Residential Mortgage, Carolyn Dempsey Design, Children of the Sound, Flowers & Flowers, ParkRiver Fund Solutions LP, and Serendipity Magazine.

The annual spring benefit is Person-to-Person's largest fundraiser of the year. "We were thrilled that last year's Jazz Fête raised more than $120,000 for our families and children in need," said Ceci Maher, executive director of Person-to-Person. "This is especially important now as everyone faces the continued challenges of a slow economy. We are grateful for the creativity, hard work and dedication of the Opus members, and we look forward to another exciting event."

Crystal Ball tickets will be available in mid-February at the cost of $190 per person. Those interested in attending are encouraged to purchase early. Attire for the affair will be "city chic" and jackets will be required for gentlemen. For more information on event details and purchasing tickets, visit the Opus for Person-to-Person website at opus4p2p.org.

More info: renee.schwandt@gmail.com

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