OPERA BALL 2006
June 9 • Villa Firenze
PHOTOS BY LYNN KEITH RUSSEL HIRSHON KYLE SAMPERTON
THE EVENT
Italian Ambassador Giovanni and Lila Castellaneta hosted the
Washington National Opera's 48th annual Opera Ball with "A Venetian Ball
at Villa Firenze,2 chaired by Betty Knight Scripps.
THE SCENE
This was
truly one of the most spectacular fêtes of the year. Guests were welcomed at
Villa Firenze by a candle lit drive and servants dressed in ivory brocade and
powdered wigs, and enjoyed a dessert buff et with a chocolate fantasy table
and crema fritta alla Veneziana. The theme of Venice at twilight continued
on the outdoor terrace with dancing late into the evening to New York's Bob
Hardwick and Orchestra. Although the Italians took the cake (tiramisu) by
sponsoring the ball and hosting all 550 guests, 26 other ambassadors from
Belgium, Spain, Egypt and more pitched in by hosting elegant pre-Ball dinner
parties at their respective residences.
THE GUESTS
Justices Anthony
Kennedy, Ruth Bader Ginsberg and Antonin Scalia; Secretary of Commerce
Carlos Gutierrez and wife Edilia; Sen. Robert Bennett and wife Joyce; Hon.
Stuart Bernstein and wife Wilma; Arturo and Hilda Brillembourg; Brazilian
Amb. Roberto Abdenur and wife Maria; Under Secretary Paula Dobriansky;
Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Martin Ginsburg; Indian Amb. Ronen Sen
and wife Kalpana and Dina Powell amongst others.
|
