Jay Gatsby, among the most notable of F. Scott Fitzgerald's book characters, just might have approved. And he might well have enjoyed the April 14 Great Gatsby-theme preview party for the Symphony Designer House, a fundraising tool for the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.
Sure. Compared to Gatsby's big, opulent, bootleg-liquor-fueled Charleston fests, the Crescendo Party was a stately event. But surely he would have hated to see any of his inebriated, rowdy guests mess up the intricate work of the 33 designers who made over this home.
Crescendo Party attendees donned Roaring '20s attire and posed for photos by an antique car prior to perusing the palatial dwelling at 37 Chenal Circle in Little Rock. Guests also partook of champagne, other libations, and light hors d'oeuvres under a tent outside the garage.
Before a toast and the official opening of the home, house chairman Michael Upson extended a welcome. Party chairman Janie Witt also gave remarks, as did symphony executive director Christina Littlejohn. Then it was time to wander through opulent spaces appointed by such design professionals as Chris Olsen, David Fraiser, Ashley Childers, Larry West and Ken and Lawrie Rash.
A biennial effort of the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra Guild, the Symphony Designer House will be open for tours through May 8.
-- Story and photos by Helaine R. Williams
High Profile on 04/24/2016