“My warmest thanks go out to Jasper and Beth Alexander for choosing SPAC as the beneficiary of this year’s Mardi Gras fundraiser. Hattie’s is not only a culinary landmark, but, under the leadership of Jasper and Beth Alexander, a champion for the quality of life in Saratoga,” said Marcia White, SPAC’s President and Executive Director.
“Upon learning of Jasper and Beth’s extremely generous decision, we immediately decided that all funds raised would be designated for New York City Ballet’s SPAC residency,” White added. “The Ballet has a rich legacy in Saratoga that has woven itself into this community’s identity and culture. Hattie’s fabulous Mardi Gras event will be the perfect opportunity to celebrate this legacy and support the ballet while enjoying one of Saratoga’s most talked about events.”
Founded by Hattie’s owners Jasper and Beth Alexander in 2001 as a way to support local nonprofits, the annual Mardi Gras event has raised over $250,000 for various charities since its inception including Shelters of Saratoga, Saratoga YMCA, Saratoga Hospital and Saratoga Sponsor-a-Scholar.
Elizabeth Alexander, co-owner of Hattie’s and also a teacher at Myers Dance School and dancer at Northeast Ballet said, “I am thrilled that this year’s proceeds will benefit SPAC’s residency of the New York City Ballet. I grew up going to SPAC and experienced the magic of the ballet firsthand. At age four while watching Jerome Robbins Dances at a Gathering I told my Mom I wanted to dance…I haven’t stopped yet!”
“Beth and I are very proud of our commitment to our community and are grateful that this event has become so popular because it has allowed us to provide significant help to organizations that are important to us,” said chef/owner Jasper Alexander.
SPAC’s residency of the New York City Ballet dates back to SPAC’s 1966 inaugural season. Each year since, the Ballet has had a summer engagement in Saratoga which has enabled a wider audience to experience its artistry and helped establish Saratoga as a world-renowned home for dance. In recent years, the rapidly escalating costs of the residency have become difficult for both NYCB and SPAC to absorb, creating a greater need for fundraising specifically dedicated to supporting the ballet season.
Benita Zahn of News Channel 13 will be the MC for the evening’s festivities. Garland Nelson and Soul Session will provide entertainment, along with the dancers from Northeast ballet. Heather Bohm-Tallman will be on hand for Mardi Gras photos with her crazy booth. Every year Michael Panza of Fine Affairs donates his time and décor to transform the Casino into “New Orleans of the North”.
The event will also offer a complimentary Hurricane cocktail from 6 – 7 p.m., Mardi Gras-inspired cuisine by Chef Jasper Alexander, cash bar and a silent auction (valet parking will be available). New this year will be the chance to win a two-year lease on a car generously donated by New Country Toyota.
Raffle tickets are $20 a piece and can be bought by contacting SPAC or can be purchased that evening at the event. Reservations are $100 per person and can be made by calling Linda Passaretti at SPAC at (518) 584-9330 ext. 122.
