The Lamar University Friends of the Arts announces a record year for Le Grand Bal, raising more than $132,000

for the fine arts programs in the College of Fine Arts and Communication. The event was held Saturday, March 30, and co-chaired by Rusty Chimeno and Dean Terrebonne. The Le Grand Bal theme was New Orleans Inspires LU and was an evening filled with Southern elegance and a twist of the beloved Crescent City.

The festivities began with a silent art auction at the Dishman Museum with a White Linen Night theme based on the annual event held every year in the Arts District in New Orleans. Patrons then sashayed to the Setzer Student Center for a social, followed by a Commander’s Palace style celebration for dinner. No trip to New Orleans would be complete without a visit to the French Quarter, so in celebration of the beloved Vieux Carré, guests danced the night away with sounds from Still Cruisin.’

“For many years Rusty and I have enjoyed the White Linen Night event in New Orleans, and our favorite restaurant is Commander’s Palace. We wanted to share these experiences with patrons of this event and introduce a less formal attire, but not casual – thus, changing up the dress code this year to Southern elegance,” said Terrebonne. “We thought it was a perfect fit with the art portion of the evening at the Dishman.  It is our desire to raise as much funds as possible to benefit the fine arts students and provide an enjoyable and memorable evening for all who are able to join us.”

Each year, Le Grand Bal committee members select an artist honoree, as well as honorees recognized for their contributions to the arts. This year’s contributing honorees were Sandy and Joseph Fertitta and the featured guest artist nominee was musician Gary Weldon. The Fertitta’s have long been contributors to the fine arts in the Beaumont area where they share their many talents to helping make our community a better place. Weldon graduated from Lamar University in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science degree in music. He is an extremely accomplished musician and sought-after performer on the trumpet and harmonica.

For more information, contact JT Robertson, marketing communications coordinator, College of Fine Arts and Communication, 409-880-2154