Titled “Defying Expectations: An Evening in Three Acts,” the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation gala featured opulent design combining two themes: the frozen fairyland of “Frozen” and the dark emerald land of “Wicked.” Both, of course, were chosen in honor of the guest performer, Tony-award winning singer Idina Menzel.
Together with their committee, co-chairs Melba Ramirez and Jim Matras hosted 350 guests March 6 under a tent on the grounds of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. The finer details included huge balloons, an ice sculpture and human snowflakes, flowers and flying monkeys.
Requested attire was “creative black tie,” and some guests went the extra yards to fit into the decor. Many dressed in character with green gowns, and the winter wonderland was replete with Elsa-inspired dresses and long, braided wigs…