Modern Dance Company Fetes With New York Winter Gala

Rioult Dance NY held their Winter Gala earlier this month at The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers. Views overlooking the Hudson River created the perfect backdrop. Pop up performances by dancers kept guests fascinated during cocktail hour and a tease before dinner. While many sampled passed hors d’oeuvres, we crossed our fingers as we placed bids on some of the silent auction treasures. Items including tickets to Hamilton, accommodations at the Oheka Castle , and dinner for 2 at Orso were in high-demand.

The evening honored Ellen Harris (in memoriam) and The Coughlin/Davis Family for their continued support of Rioult Dance NY. The Winter Gala, was the kickoff to the upcoming New York season. And as a sneak peek, guests were presented an excerpt of new work set to the music of Deep Purple that will premiere at The Joyce Theater starting May 31- June 4.

Founded in 1994 by Pascal Rioult, the New York City- based dance company is committed to educating and expanding audiences to modern dance. Their commitment effort reaches many through touring nationally and internationally. Rioult organizes extensive in-school arts and community outreach programs, and offers dance training to the public through extensive classes and workshops. A spacious new dance facility is scheduled to open in 2018 in Long Island City.

Photo: Eric Bandiero