On Thursday night, a select few of us had the honor of attending the prestigious kick-off cocktail party hosted by the philanthropist/author/ TV host Jean Shafiroff for the upcoming 69th Viennese Opera Ball. This grand event, co-chaired by Jean and Denise Rich, is an annual highlight of the NYC social scene and a testament to the enduring friendship between Austria and the U.S.
Camelia Entekhabifard, Mauricio Mauro, Marilyn Kirschner – photo by Laurel Marcus
Approximately 100 elegantly attired guests, including notable figures such as Helene Steinhausl, the Council General to NY from Austria, and Silvia Frieser, the executive director, gathered at the Shafiroff private residence. The guest list also boasted names like Victor dESouza, Maurizio Maura, Liliana Cavendish, Katlean DeMonchy, Edgar Batista, NY Assemblywoman Rebecca Seawright, Maribel Lieberman, Princess Caroline Murat, and Antoine Turzi, adding a touch of glamour and significance to the evening.
“Lady in Red” Baroness Lulu Sezercan Dalkana – photo by Laurel Marcus
Assemblywoman Seawright awarded framed citations to the Council General and Executive Director Frieser for their outstanding contributions to the Viennese Opera Ball and Jean for her tireless efforts in organizing the event. Opera singer Johanna Will, accompanied by pianist Artyom Pak, also gave a jaw-dropping performance of two musical arias, further adding to the charitable spirit of the evening.
Satin gown with a train by Malan Breton – photo by Laurel Marcus
The irrepressible Mrs. Shafiroff, who knows a thing or two about galas, spoke passionately during her mid-party speech (in between her outfit changes) about the Viennese Opera Ball. “If you miss this, you are missing one of the best balls in NYC. It’s absolutely spectacular!
“We have a star-studded lineup for the Viennese Opera Ball,” Jean exclaimed excitedly. “Met Opera stars, ballet performances from Youth America Grand Prix, beautiful debutantes and their escorts, fantastic food, fantastic dancing, and a great, great orchestra. This party is not just a visual treat, but a whole lot of fun.”
And, yes, at least as of Friday night, there were still a few tickets available. Monies raised by the ball benefit Gabriel’s Angels Cancer Care and Memorial Sloan Kettering’s music department.
“007 Girl” Cornelia Sharpe – photo by Laurel Marcus
Now, let’s talk about the fashion show Jean is known for. When she hosts a party, it is never about what costume she should wear—it is always multiples, sometimes three or four. This two-hour cocktail party had five complete outfit changes, including shoes, gloves, and jewelry!
Photo by Laurel Marcus
Jean greeted her guests in a pink, silver-beading, two-piece Victor dESouza top and skirt (which looked like a dress) accessorized with silver Sermoneta leather gloves. (Incidentally, Victor has some exciting news about a new retail venture, which you will soon hear about.)
Photo by Laurel Marcus
The second outfit kept the Barbie look going: a short, flirty hot pink Ese Azenabour lewk, followed by a robin’s egg blue off-the-shoulder tulle number (Oscar de la Renta), a long black satin gown with a train by Malan Breton, and finally, a long black slinky feathered and sequined Nabys Vielman gown with Seymoure black gloves.
Photo by Laurel Marcus
Whew! I’m exhausted just thinking about it. Another guest journalist, Nadja Sayej, and I joked that we should all trade outfits or arrive with a change or two. Hmm… something to think about for Jean’s next soiree.
