By Jan Mitchell

Famous for their annual gala brunch, this year the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF) has picked up the tempo with a glamorous Hollywood-style evening …The Chic & Unique Ball: A Red-Carpet Extravaganza.  

The festive event takes place Saturday, November 4, 2023, starting with a 6 p.m. VIP reception, emceed by WSVN 7 reporter Alex Miranda, at Kimpton Shorebreak Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotel. Afterwards, VIPs will be whisked away in limousines to join more guests at the 8 p.m. Gala; a dazzling showcase of creativity, fashion, and music at The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort. On the red carpet, and opening the event is internationally acclaimed celebrity impersonator and SAG actor Joe Posa, performing his renowned impersonation of comedian Joan Rivers.  

“GMCSF’s thirteenth season was a year of the ‘paradigm shift’ as the chorus grew exponentially, and as a result, so did our budget,” says Robert M. Beaulieu, Gala Chair. “The Chic & Unique Ball grew from realizing we needed to step up our fundraising efforts and create a unique event to draw returning and new guests into the GMCSF family.” 

MET inspired and classic Black-Tie is the fashion for the evening. As guests walk the red carpet they’ll feel like a celebrity as Paparazzi snap photos, and video cameras pull guests in for a brief interview. 

The décor, sponsored by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, will be an elegant celebration of music, from custom guitar centerpieces that can be purchased, to tables themed to iconic music stars. Guests can also bid on high-end packages, including a Hard Rock Experience, a Brand G Vacation (The Premier Operator of LGBT Cruises), and more.

Guests will enjoy cocktails at the open bars, which also feature Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and feast on delectable culinary creations by the celebrated Chefs at the Westin.

In Grammy-esque style, the GMCSF Awards Show will be projected on multimedia screens strategically placed in the ballroom. Three “Mission Moments” video testimonials will open the ceremony.  This year, two Al LaMorges Community Leadership awards will be presented; one to an individual and another to an organization or business that best embody the spirit of selfless service and support of GMCSF’s mission and LGBTQ+ Arts Organizations. 

Then, dance the night away to the sounds of Vibe City, performing a selection of party music that will have everyone out of their seats and on the dance floor.

“With the current state of LGBTQ+ affairs in Florida, our values and mission are more relevant and vital now than ever. Funding from The Chic & Unique Ball will help support our regular shows throughout the year and outreach opportunities where we meet face-to-face with the community we serve but in a more intimate and personal setting,” commented Beaulieu.