Usually when we see Heather Leveritch in our studio, she's here to promote activities at the Conservatory of the Ozarks, of which she is the Director. As it turns out, Heather is also a proud member of the Springfield Regional Opera Guild, the opera's all-volunteer fundraising organization. She and Guild President Valia Gardener came by to promote SRO Guild's 17th annual "Hat Luncheon" fundraiser. It's Saturday October 17 from 11:30am to 1:00pm in the Starlight Room at the Tower Club.
"We really have such a great time," says Valia Gardener. Among the attractions that day will be performances by the SRO Young Artists, as well as a pre-show by students and faculty from Conservatory of the Ozarks. SRO's new Artistic Director, internationally acclaimed tenor Michael Spyres, will be there as well.
The point of the Hat Luncheon, says Valia, is to "wear your favorite hat, and it can be any style: derby, a funny hat..." "Fancy," adds Heather Leveritch. "Vintage, couture-style... and we're going to have a contest for the different categories of hats"--with prizes awarded.
Then there's the food--it IS a luncheon, after all! There will be a choice of either beef tenderloin or hunter-style chicken, with cheesecake or triple chocolate cake for dessert.
Heather Leveritch adds, "Each table has a hat-themed centerpiece, all of which are available in the silent auction at the event." For example, a Kentucky Derby table; a Christmas-themed table with Santa hats; a Princess Party table with tiaras and crowns; a Hollywood Glamor table; and a table with an Alice in Wonderland theme. In addition, says Valia Gardener, the silent auction will offer "original artwork donated by one of our members, Mary Hamilton." There will also be vintage SRO items, gift baskets, spa treatment gift certificates from Needful Things, gift certificates for music lessons at Conservatory of the Ozarks, and photographic art by Dean Curtis.
Tickets are $35, available from Guild President Valia (pronounced VAY-lah) Gardener at (417) 844-8724. She says they should be reserved by Monday October 12, and certainly no later than Wednesday the 14th. And of course, the SRO Guild is always seeking new members... you can call Valia or the SRO office at 863-1960.