CLEARWATER - What happens when an internationally acclaimed concert pianist by the name of Jon Kimura Parker performs the music of Mozart, Schumann, Schubert and other renowned composers? It becomes an "Evening of Fantasy". That's what members of the North Suncoast Associates are planning for the evening of October 11 at the historic Kapok Tree Pavilion located at 923 McMullen Booth Road. The special private concert for patrons and supporters of The Florida Orchestra is a benefit for the orchestra's education and outreach programs. Parker, who has performed for Queen Elizabeth II and the prime ministers of Canada and Japan, has played with all of the major orchestras throughout the world. He will be embarking on a world tour shortly after his appearance here.
Those attending the fantasy evening are invited to a champagne reception prior to dinner and the concert. Patrons will have the opportunity to meet personally with Parker following the performance. Cost to attend is $125 per person.
Dee Dubendorff and Reinhard Opitz are co-chairs of the event. Committee members include Martine Stapp, Joan Gutierrez and Susan Pease (decor); Bobbie Hoopes (guest list); Maria Cantonis (invitations); Johanna Guzik, Martine Stapp and Connie Optiz (food and drinks); Margaret Tadel, Sally Marticorena and Martha Robertson (public relations); Rebecca Houghton (reservations); Karen Johnson (sponsors); Connie Opitz (table hosts); and Conrad Wieler (treasurer).
The North Suncoast Associates is an organization of men and women in north Pinellas County who support The Florida Orchestra through fundraising, educational programs and audience development. The concert featuring Parker is the first of several fundraisers the group will be hosting in the coming year. Over the years patrons have enjoyed such events as "An Evening in Monte Carlo", "The Celebrity Fashion Show" and "Mardi Gras Masquerade." Two major fundraisers are in the works for this year. They are the above mentioned "Evening of Fantasy" and the "Love Fore The Florida Orchestra" golf and tennis tournament, which is coming up in April at Countryside Country Club. The annual Bravura Brunch, "Hands Across the Bay" Luncheon and a chamber music concert are also on the agenda. The chamber music concert is coming up in November. Last year The Florida Orchestra received over $48,000, thanks to the efforts of the North Suncoast Associates.
For reservations and/or information on various levels of sponsorship for the "Evening of Fantasy", call (727) 585-5846.