Welcome to the fourth season of Encore Affairs—a series of parties and special events that benefit The Williamsburg Symphonia. Gracious hosts and hostesses are once again opening their homes and other sites, serving up delicious food, showcasing musical talents and providing beautiful settings for fun and fundraising.
Whether you’re a new or a long-time resident, you’re sure to find an Affair you’ll want to attend. Join your friends and make new acquaintances at one or more venues offered for these delightful benefits. The Affairs provide a splendid opportunity for you to introduce guests to the Symphonia and the League. A portion of each admission cost is tax deductible, providing important funding for The Williamsburg Symphonia and its programs. Call 229-0640 for more information. Click here to download the reservation form.
Affair No. 1: A CONCERT AFTERNOON
Sunday, September 13, 2009, 3:00-5:30 p.m.
A combination of music, poetry, drama and humor will be delivered by award-winning and internationally acclaimed tenor William Ferguson. A consummate performer, this Richmond native and family friend of the hosts is acknowledged as one of today’s most promising singers and praised for his versatility in both opera and concert. The venue for this Affair is a beautiful home in Kingsmill where guests will stroll through the hosts’ lush gardens and enjoy wine and hors d’oeuvres while chatting with Will after the performance. Limited to 72 guests; the cost is $75 per person ($35 tax deductible). Visit Will’s website (www.williamferguson.com) to learn more about the artist.
Affair No. 2: WINE IN THE VINEYARDS
Friday, September 25, 2009, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Wine, music and a delightful alfresco party around the fountain awaits you at Villa Vineá. Delicious hors d’oeuvres and elegant wines will be served in the courtyard, but make sure you spend time in this beautiful home, which showcases the owners’ magnificent décor and diverse art collection. The evening will come to a delightful close with a delicious dessert course. Limited to 40 guests; the cost is $50 per person ($25 tax deductible).
Affair No. 3: SUNSET ON THE JAMES
Tuesday, October 6, 2009, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
A spectacular sunset on the James River sets the scene for this party, accompanied by the soothing sounds of a string ensemble and a splashing fountain. Situated next to the 17th green of the Two Rivers golf course, the hosts’ home in Governor’s Land, with its charming painted wall murals and superb river views, is a perfect start to an evening for your wine and dine groups or for selected friends. Wine, music and an assortment of luscious hors d’oeuvres – a delightful combination for 50 lucky people – at a cost of $35 per person ($15 tax deductible).
Affair No. 4: SOUTHERN SUNDAY BRUNCH
Sunday, November 8, 2009, 12:00-3:00 p.m.
Take a ride to the countryside for a fabulous Sunday brunch in the beautiful community of Stonehouse. Hidden away on a quiet cul-de-sac, this handsome home features lovely gardens outside and an exquisite collection of antiques inside. A strolling violinist will play tunes from the ‘30s and ‘40s, and the brunch will offer a bounty of favorite southern foods as well as the host’s famous Bloody Marys, the best ones served east of Brennan’s. Limited to 50 guests; the cost is $35 per person ($15 tax deductible).
Affair No. 5: ELEGANT COCKTAIL PARTY
Friday, February 12, 2010, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
A roaring fire and a diverse collection of artwork provide a welcoming backdrop to an evening in this jewel of a home in Richmond Hills. A tireless champion of many local artists, the hostess has gathered a remarkable array of traditional, whimsical, elegant and delightful art, displayed throughout the house – both on the walls and on the ceilings! Chase away the winter grays as the guest of this consummate hostess and enjoy your favorite cocktails or wine served with delectable hors d’oeuvres. A fabulous venue for your wine and dine group, the cost is $50 per person ($25 tax deductible). Limited to 50 guests, this party will sell out quickly!
Affair No. 6: A CHEF’S KITCHEN REDUX
Sunday, March 14, 2010, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Chef John Gonzales has graciously agreed to reprise last year’s ultimate dining experience at his renowned cooking school-cum-restaurant in downtown Williamsburg. You’ll watch John prepare and cook a delectable meal, assisted in part by our own music director and conductor Janna Hymes. You will be treated to champagne and hors d’oeuvres, a four-course meal and dessert, with wine accompaniments – all prepared right before you – while John regales you with foodie morsels of information. This delicious and captivating evening is limited to 25 guests; the cost is $80 per person ($40 is tax deductible).
Affair No. 7: OLÉ – IT’S A FIESTA!
Friday, May 21, 2010, 5:30-8:00 p.m.
Don your most colorful sandals, peasant skirts and sarapes, and dash to this Cantina in Holly Hills! Original American Indian and Spanish artworks created by the hostess are complemented by a collection of Asian artifacts and paintings. The hostess will be whipping up her amazing specialties of delicious Tex-Mex hors d’oeuvres to go with your choice of sangria, frosty margaritas, Mexican beer and other cooling beverages. Only 40 guests can be accommodated at this colorful Fiesta in May. Reserve now; the cost is $50 per person ($25 is tax deductible).
The Williamsburg Symphonia League extends its heartfelt thanks to all the Encore Affairs hosts and volunteers for their gracious hospitality and kind generosity.
A Coming Attraction
COCKTAILS WITH THE CONDUCTOR
Save the Date! – Sunday, April 11, 2010
Experience a unique Williamsburg Symphonia League opportunity to meet and converse with Janna Hymes, the Symphonia’s artistic director and conductor, at the historic and beautiful Westover Plantation in Charles City County. Rarely open to the public, Westover is considered one of America’s most brilliant examples of early Georgian architecture; it was built for Virginia’s William Byrd II in 1730. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be served as guests stroll through the formal gardens and gaze upon breathtaking views of the James River. Mark your calendars now to save the date – April 11, 2010 – for this very special League event. Cost is $45 for League members until March 26, 2010; $60 for nonmembers or after the cut-off date.
