by Z.Z. Zorn

A lovely afternoon event was experienced by members and guests of the NEVADA OPERA THEATRE GUILD’s INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP LUNCHEON at CILI Restaurant at the Bali Hai Golf Club. The Nevada Opera Theatre Guild is a major sponsor for the main stage productions and the scholarship that is presented each year to a UNLV Vocal Major student within the Music Department. Each year The Nevada Opera Theatre Guild hosts several events that have become a tradition. They are: Opera Gala, International Friendship Luncheon, Patron Receptions, Holiday High Teas and the Holiday Celebration Luncheon.

A hosted reception started the event along with a Silent Auction. Guests enjoyed mingling with friends and shopping at the silent auction. (I always find a great buy while supporting Nevada Opera at Silent Auctions.)

Dr. Morton Hyson did an excellent job as Emcee.

Dr. Hyson introduced General Director of the Nevada Opera Theatre Eileen Hayes.

Then introduced Gayle Anderson, Chief of NV Protocal and Jonathan Gorst.

Jonathon Gorst (piano accompanist for the opera singers) spoke about the Old West Musical Review that will be presented Saturday and Sunday nights throughout the summer at Bonnie Spring Ranch. Tickets 702 875 4191.

A delicious festive luncheon was served consisting of:

First Course: Caesar Salad with Garlic Croutons and Shaved Parmesan Cilli Fresh Baked Flat Breads

The Entrée: Seared Scottish Salmon with Basil Potato Puree Grilled Vegetables and Red Pepper Beurre Blanc

Dessert: Chocolate Decadence with Fresh Strawberries and Whipped Cream

During the luncheon the wonderful Nevada Opera Theatre Soloists performed to the delight of the attendees. They were: John Garafalo,

Isabella Ivy, Alissa Van Camp and Dr. Morton I. Hyson.

Denny Weddle (center) past Nevada Opera Theatre President, called the winning Raffle Prizes and sponsored the International Friendship Table below.

As this was an International Friendship Luncheon, the tables were each decorated with an individual Country’s indigenous décor. Table guests also received a gift from the table sponsor. I was at the India table sponsored by Beverly and Mike Mykison and received a divine India jewelry box. The Mykison’s had recently returned from India.

Eileen Hayes acknowledged and honored Jocelyn W. Holzworth, Janet L. Ryan and Karen Sherer for all the exceptional work they do for the NEVADA OPERA

Other Beautiful International Friendship Tables:

This concluded a delightful afternoon at a charming venue for a most worthwhile cause.

Upcoming events of The NEVADA OPERA THEATRE:

May: “HANSEL & GRETAL” in at-risk elementary schools in Clark County

June 30: – The Diva and Divo Renewal Luncheon. With Nevada Opera Theatre Guild at Piero’s

July 9: 2012 Scholarship Auditions

September: “Opera Under The Stars” at Lake Las Vegas. The Ravella 6:30 p.m.

September: “Die Fledermaus” Opera Outreach Performances

November 10: The Divas and Divos of Nevada presents. The ANNUAL TEA at The Four Seasons

December 17: The Nevada Opera Theatre Guild presents THE HOLIDAY CELEBRATION LUNCHEON at MAGGIANO’S, The Fashion Show Mall.

February 9: Meet The Artists Reception

February 17: “AIDA” performance at ARTEMUS HAM CONCERT HALL. With reception after the performance.

March: Opera Outreach in the Schools – “Alice In Wonderland”

May: International Friendship Luncheon at PARIS LAS VEGAS