Intense and immense defines the excitement on the East End as the Guild Hall Gala will for the first time be held at the newly reimagined museum, theater, and gardens on Friday, August 2.   Guild Hall has been a creative fixture for four generations, bringing the finest in music, art, theater and dance to patrons eager for inspiration in this idyllic summer retreat.

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Approaching 100 years, the arts center has just completed a major renovation, not to expand, but to improve the facilities for 21st century audiences and artisans.  Originally designed by Aymar Embury II, a prominent architect of the day who specialized in country homes prior to being tapped by Robert Moses to assist as chief designer for the New Deal/Parks Department projects around the city.  Some of his iconic work includes the Central Park Zoo and the refurbishment of Gracie Mansion. 

What to wear Guild Hall Gala.  New York Social Diary
What to wear Guild Hall Gala.  New York Social Diary
What to wear Guild Hall Gala.  New York Social Diary
What to wear Guild Hall Gala.  New York Social Diary

The extremely talented Executive Director, Andrea Grover, has focused on participatory arts programming and leadership for 25 years.

Andrea Grover, Guild Hall, East Hampton
What to wear Guild Hall Gala.  New York Social Diary

This is an evening of visual treasures as during cocktails guests will be treated to a special preview of Julian Schnabel: Selected Works from Home exhibition, with works from the artist’s personal collection.   Following, a delicious and stylish dinner will sate the art loving attendees for dancing into the wee hours.  

What to wear Guild Hall Gala.  New York Social Diary
What to wear Guild Hall Gala.  New York Social Diary David Levinson, Simone Levinson, Kim Heiraton, Tinamarie Clark, Othon Prounis, Kathy Prounis, David Rosenberg.

For our what to wear to this festive gathering of the artistic aficionados, we were inspired by Love Shack Fancy whose flirty feminine designs have become the darling of multi-generational devotees.  And these trending block heeled sandals – are as good on the grass as on the dance floor.

What to wear Guild Hall Gala.  New York Social Diary Todd Cohen, Rebeca Hessel Cohen, Michele Cohen, Marty Cohen.

What is Hilary wearing?  “I chose colorful floral pieces for my Guild Hall looks. They can be dressed up or dressed down depending on how you are feeling the night of. They will keep you looking fresh and cool as you enjoy the amazing experience-filled event.”

Hats off  to the Summer Gala honorees, Hilarie Morgan and Mitchell Morgan, whose  family’s landmark gift has enabled the complete transformation of the new Hilarie and Mitchell Morgan Theater.

What to wear Guild Hall Gala.  New York Social Diary
What to wear Guild Hall Gala.  New York Social Diary

Architect Peter Pennoyer explains the process. “The challenge in the theater was different.  Here, we made everything new while keeping the essential historic features. We retained the charming circus tent ceiling  which has always been beloved in the village. But our design completely reconfigured the seating, removing boxes, vestibules and columns to improve the versatility and comfort of the space for the audience and the performers.”

What to wear Guild Hall Gala.  New York Social Diary Marty Cohen, Barbara Tober, Liewellyn Sanchez-Werner.
What to wear Guild Hall Gala.  New York Social Diary  Andrea Grover, Leo Villareal,Renee Cox, Joanna Grocer

To credit the talent behind this innovative undertaking:  “Among the star design team engaged in realizing the collaborative project are: leaders in the renovation and preservation of historic buildings Peter Pennoyer Architects, celebrated theatrical consultants Apeiro Design, and renowned New York-based Hollander Design | Landscape Architects.

What to wear Guild Hall Gala.  New York Social Diary

Premier East End general contractor Ray Harden, co-owner of Ben Krupinski Builder, is leading project construction. Jon MaassPamela Torres, and Jonathan Yeadon are serving as owner representatives.

What to wear Guild Hall Gala.  New York Social Diary

The design, construction, and advisory team also includes AkustiksConceptual Lighting, Arrowstreet2×4Altieri Sebor WieberGilsanz Murray SteficekLeonard Ackerman, Esq., and Twomey Latham Shea Kelley Dubin & Quartararo, LLP. Original Guild Garden Furniture designed by Evan Desmond Yee.

What to wear Guild Hall Gala.  New York Social Diary

What to wear Guild Hall Gala.  New York Social Diary  Architect Peter Pennoyer on the pleasure of the collaboration. “Working with an extraordinary team of theater experts, lighting designers, acousticians and engineers

Architect Peter Pennoyer on the pleasure of the collaboration. “Working with an extraordinary team of theater experts, lighting designers, acousticians and engineers, we were able to toe the line between innovation and preservation and build a renewed Guild Hall.  Of course, having a committed and supportive board and a close, working relationship with the staff was essential. This project is a highlight of my career.”

What to wear Guild Hall Gala.  New York Social Diary

Did we mention the enthusiasm of The Board – bravissimo!

Photos courtesy of Guild Hall, Patrick McMullan, Library of Congress, NYC.gov

Hilary Dick and Karen Klopp of What2WearWhere.com. We take the guesswork out of dressing, the legwork out of shopping, and the panic out of packing.©

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