Intense and immense defines the excitement on the East End as the Guild Hall Summer 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 on the island for four generations, bringing the finest in music, art, theater and dance to eager patrons.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.”
The talent behind this innovative undertaking 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.
Premier East End general contractor Ray Harden, co-owner of Ben Krupinski Builder, is leading project construction. Jon Maass, Pamela Torres, and Jonathan Yeadon are serving as owner representatives.
The design, construction, and advisory team also includes Akustiks, Conceptual Lighting, Arrowstreet, 2×4, Altieri Sebor Wieber, Gilsanz Murray Steficek, Leonard Ackerman, Esq., and Twomey Latham Shea Kelley Dubin & Quartararo, LLP. Original Guild Garden Furniture designed by Evan Desmond Yee.
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.”
Did we mention the enthusiasm of The Board?
