Story By: Meg Wallace
MONTEVALLO, Ala. — The Shelby County Arts Council held their annual Mardi Gras Gala Saturday which raised thousands of dollars for the nonprofit.
Patrons were served dinner and a show with festive performances by Sean of the South. A silent auction was held first, which raised a few thousand dollars, but the big event was the live auction. Items auctioned off included a vintage Louis Vuitton bag, luxury chairs, and gold earrings. Services were also auctioned off featuring an in-home cooking lesson and a behind the scenes look at Sean of the South.
When the live auction concluded, Fund A Need began, which gave patrons the option to donate money directly. The arts council raised nearly four thousand dollars through this portion of the event. The money will go towards funding summer camp, scholarships, supplies for the arts council, and general bills and upkeep.
The Shelby County Arts Council staff chose Bruce and Joy Andrews as king and queen of the gala. Bruce Andrews recently retired as director at the arts council. His wife, Joy Andrews, has been a consistent supporter of the arts council. Joy expressed that winning the title of queen was “unreal.” Bruce also seemed to enjoy himself at the gala, even taking to the stage to play the harmonica with the band, something Bruce is known for around the arts council.
Staff says this years gala was the most attended in recent years. This is thanks to Lena Rios, the childrens’ theatre director who runs social media for the arts council and did the marketing for this year’s event. More information about the Shelby Arts Council’s future events can be found on their website.
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