Members of the Dorothy Parker Society know that some of the best times we had last year were on Governors Island with Michael Arenella & His Dreamland Orchestra. The Parkerfest held on the grass was such a fantastic time.
We are planning on having Parkerfest on June 6-7 on Governors Island as part of the Jazz Age Lawn Party that Michael produces and performs during. However, due to budget cuts in Albany, this good times are threatened. In an email that Michael sent to his fans and supporters: “At the current time, we do not have the necessary funds to provide a dance floor and stage for the 2009 Jazz Age Lawn Party, so it is important that we receive all the support we can get so that we are not dancing and playing in the grass!” The event will take place, but in a scaled back way, he says. “The State of New York has cut funding for programming on Governors Island. While the island will thankfully remain open, there will be no funding provided for entertainment on the island. In order to raise funds for the Jazz Age Lawn Party, we are hosting the Dreamland Gala.”
The Dreamland Gala is Sunday, May 24, 9:00 PM, $30 (includes open bar, hors d’oeurves, and live entertainment!). It features Michael and his 12-piece Dreamland Orchestra. This promises to be an enthralling night of music, dancing and cocktails, as well as other attractions. A silent auction will be held showcasing an array of items donated by local high-end boutiques and restaurants. Guests are encouraged to attend in their finest Roaring Twenties evening wear. Keep in mind, Monday the 25th is Memorial Day! So we hope you’ll take advantage of the long weekend and join us on Sunday night.
This speakeasy-themed gala will be held at the Green Building on Union, a 19th-century warehouse nestled along the banks of the Gowanus Canal, at 450 Union Street in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, a short walk from several major subway lines. This fundraiser is vital to the success of the weekend that so many of us love on Governors Island. There are vintage cars, hundreds of attendees wear vintage clothing, plus the live jazz and the fantastic setting on the city’s newest parkland. If you plan to attend Parkerfest, or can’t make it to the gala, I encourage you to donate to the cause. Perhaps $25 (at least!) to show your commitment to a great New York tradition.