Top Artistic and Culinary Talent in Dallas Combined Their Powers for TACA’s Signature Event

Alas, fall has finally arrived. The first hints of a nighttime crispness are in the air. Just the other night everyone was ready to party — outdoors — for TACA‘s always entertaining fundraiser Party on the Green. This year’s event was held at the Elaine D. and Charles A. Sammons Park at the AT&T Performing Arts Center and was co-chaired by Whitney Strauss and Stephen Gilhooly.

The party always focuses on epicurean treats and special performances. And no need to break out a Herrera ball gown as this is a cocktail frock and flats type of evening. This year’s culinary experience featured a few delicious small plate dishes inspired by the featured celebrity chef, Janice Provost of Parigi fame. My personal favorites were the shrimp and grits and grilled cheese.

Entertainers – The Grays and Brad Williams Trio kept the party lively as guests meandered beneath the sky filled with stars and caught up with friends (many for the first time since returning from their summer retreats). One of the highlights of my evening was seeing dancer, Alex Brooks, from the Dash Ensemble show off her moves.

I had a moment to chat with the man of the hour (or rather, evening) — TACA’s Terry D. Loftis, the Donna Wilhelm Family President & Executive Director. When I posed his thoughts on the evening he shared: “We are thrilled to bring back our Fall signature event in celebration of the arts in Dallas. Our loyal donors and supporters are truly amazing and committed to making sure that TACA continues to positively impact the arts and artists across the city.”

Spotted enjoying this first hint of fall wearing a few more layers than past months included the TACA board chair Tara Lewis and her husband John Swords; Crow Collection‘s Amy Hofland and Caroline Kim; Lynn McBee who was coming off of the success of her event from a few day’s prior — Klyde Warren Park’s Party in the Park; recent Seattle transplant Kristin Bray; president of Dallas Black Dance Theater Zenetta Drew; and Wildlike founder Alysa Teichman.