Joe and Christa Ayoub of Milton, all decked out in their unique football costumes, pose with Duran Duran band members at “Big Night 9.” (Photo by Jeff Thiebauth)

On Saturday, January 26, the legendary British Pop Band, Duran Duran, whose hits include “Hungry like the Wolf” and “Rio,” entertained more than 1300 guests at “Big Night 9”— the annual winter fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Massachusetts Bay.

The Duran Duran-themed gala, which was held at the Boston Convention and Expo Center, raised 1.8 million dollars.

Event co-chairs were Joe Ayoub of Milton and Jim Pallotta of Wellesley. Committee members included: Stephen Demirjian, Paul Deninger, Tim Dibble, Phil Gross, Jeff Leerink, Peter Monaco, Martin Mannion, Paul Margolis, Frank Petz and Michael Stansky.

Guests were encouraged to dress as their favorite Duran Duran song. The Best Costume winner, Reed Chisholm, received two front row seats to a Duran Duran concert in Europe, including two roundtrip airfare tickets.

Chisholm’s costume was from Duran Duran's “Hungry Like the Wolf” video; and on being announced the winner, he immediately donated the tickets back to Big Brothers Big Sisters on the spot, and they were auctioned off for $10,000!

Comedian Tony V was the evening’s emcee. Guest speakers included Stephen Pemberton, Chief Diversity Officer and VP of Product Marketing for Monster.com and former Little Brother Chris LaFortune, the 2007 James and Kimberly Pallotta Scholarship Winner. Chris is a freshman at Harvard this year.

The 2008 Celebrity Chefs included Sam Mason of Tailor; Seth & Angela Raynor of The Pearl & The Boarding House; Michael Schlow of Alta Strada, Radius, Via Matta and Great Bay; and Ming Tsai of Blue Ginger. To be sure, all enjoyed sumptuous cuisine!

Every year, the event features chart-topping performers. Past entertainment has included B-52’s, The Bangles, Blondie, Cheap Trick, Morris Day & The Time, Earth Wind & Fire, Hall & Oates, Kool & the Gang, Ziggy Marley, and Meatloaf.

Since 1998, Big Night has raised nearly $14 million, which has helped the organization serve more than 9,000 children from this effort alone. Guests always have Big fun while making a Big difference at this can’t-miss event.

Big Night is the brainchild of Tudor Investment Corporation principal, Jim Pallotta, who was inspired to help Big Brothers Big Sisters make critical strides towards ensuring the healthy development of children throughout our community. Incidentally, we are told that Jim grew up in the North End.

Congratulations and Best Wishes all around!

Denise Hajjar To Present Free Fashion Shows

Noted fashion designer Denise Hajjar tells us that she will be presenting two upcoming fashion shows in the Oak Bar at the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel in Boston.

The first is scheduled for this coming Tuesday, February 12 and it’s her “Valentine's Show,” where she says, “I will be showcasing the beautiful color RED. Such a fabulous shade to complement your wardrobe. There will be a full array of day and evening wear pieces, including accessories.”

On Monday, March 31, Denise will be present her “2008 Spring / Summer Collection.” “I am so excited to show all of you what I have been working on,” she says. “From strong pastel colors, to crisp black & white. Exotic floral prints, to subtle abstract patterns and beautiful textural fabrics.
Sip on a fabulous cocktail, while viewing what is new & fresh this season from both my clothing line & accessories.”

There is no admission charge for these events. However, as seating is limited, advance reservations are necessary by calling 617-267-5300, ext. 1058.

The Denise Hajjar Boutique, located in the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel, is open seven days a week and by appointment. For more information, visit www.denisehajjar.com or call 617-927-5990.

Camellia Days in Waltham

Continuing through Monday, March 3, we can all enjoy “Camellia Days at the Lyman Estate Greenhouse” daily from 9:30 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Where else can you see 100-year-old Camellia trees in full bloom? It’s been called a “Flower Show Under Glass.” Admission is by donation.

The Lyman Estate is located at 185 Lyman St., in Waltham. For more information, call 781-891-4882, ext. 244, or visit www.historicnewengland.org.

Get Ready for Annie. She’s Coming Back!

Leapin' Lizards! America's most beloved musical, “Annie,” is coming back to Boston in a 30th anniversary tour, from March 25 through March 30, at the Citi Performing Arts Center Wang Theatre – giving a whole new generation the chance to experience this classic musical about never giving up hope.

The original Broadway production won seven 1977 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Book and Score. It ran for 2,377 performances, and has subsequently been produced all over the world. The original production is one of the top 20 longest running shows in Broadway history, and “Annie” continues to be one of the most successful musicals ever.

For more information, call 1-800-447-7400 or visit www.citicenter.org.

Enjoy!

In addition to events covered and reported by the columnist, "The Scene..." 
is compiled from various other sources such as news releases, PRNewswire services, etc.

bostonevents.com    bostontravel.com    bostongardens.com    bostonautos.com