A lot of things have changed since Art House Productions put on its first annual Snow Ball back in 2007. Art House Productions promotes the visual arts, theater, open mic nights, poetry, music, a video lab, JC Fridays, and much more. From the start, the charity event was designed to serve as the principle fundraiser for the group’s year-long activities.
“It raises 10 to 15 percent of our annual budget,” said Christine Goodman, Art House director. “This raises crucial funds for programs for the year.”
Art House has brought new life to the Jersey City art scene since its modest start as an open mic night in 2001. Under Goodman’s tutelage, Art House Productions has grown from open mic to community outreach to multi-media productions.
The first Snow Ball took place in Victory Hall, a wonderful and quaint location on Grand Street. Over the years, the event relocated to more a more upscale location nearly Hamilton Square Park.
This year the Snow Ball, one of the most anticipated annual charity galas in Jersey City, returns on Saturday, Jan 23, at 8 p.m. at its new theater digs near Journal Square.
“This is the 10th annual Snow Ball – a big milestone.” – Christine Goodman
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This year’s Snow Ball will feature live music by Giselle Bellas, a Florida-born singer who wrote for and has been heard on the Emmy Award-winning FX show, “Louie.”
By “black tie creative,” organizers mean you can use your imagination. Over the last decade, people have dressed up in some of the most remarkable costumes imaginable. They compete for the privilege of being the best dressed guest or couple. Some wear very formal attire, some vintage clothing, some wedding or costume wear.
Goodman said one of the attractions of this year’s gala will be the VIP champagne reception at 7 p.m. featuring a private concert by Carolyn Light.
Light moved to Jersey City about six years ago, and has since become part of the community.
Over the last five years, Light has become a regular voice around Jersey City, influenced by classic and contemporary folk music, especially performers like Simon & Garfunkel, Oh Hellos, and Drawing from the Machine. She previously performed at Art House to celebrate the release of new CDs.
“This is the 10th annual Snow Ball,” Goodman said. “A big milestone. Our main stage performer Giselle, opera singer turned pop artist, recently got a shout out on ‘Late Nite with Seth Myers’ by comic Louis CK!”
Regular tickets cost $85 in advance or $95 at the door, and $150 gets you into the VIP Champagne Reception.
A regular ticket includes food and drink from this year’s presenting sponsor City Diner.
Other major food sponsors include GP’s Restaurant, Port-O, Raval and Hamilton Inn. Desserts are provided by Jaes Cakez, Downtown Yogurt and Cocoa Bakery.
The event also has a silent auction that features unique artwork and experience packages as well as items from local vendors.
Art House is located at 136 Magnolia Ave. at the corner of Summit Avenue. The theater is adjacent to the Journal Square PATH Station. For more information go to http://www.arthouseproductions.org, or email info@arthouseproductions.org.
Al Sullivan may be reached at asullivan@hudsonreporter.com.