Beyond Baroque

The invitation beckoned, “Come and fete by candlelight with friends and lovers in Baroque opulence!” The evening was in honor of the brilliant Jay Jackson, the critically acclaimed opera director’s birthday. The soiree was by invitation only with a promise of entertainment, wit and gastronomical pleasures- reminiscent of a gala found between the pages of an Edith Wharton novel. 

The wink at fabulousness was hinted in the invitation by guests' designated dishes. From Rôtir le filet de Porc, Hors d'Oeuvre to Fondue au Fromage Suisse Classique one may have had to consult a dictionary before embarking on the ingredients. Approaching the event with my scalloped potatoes simmering in Gruyere and heavy cream, I could see the twinkling lights of dramatic candelabras lighting up a table that would seat fifteen guests. A swirl of lights mimicking a laser snowfall lit up the room as a banner of laser magic read, “Happy Birthday, Jay” above a stage set for entertainment to follow the sit down dinner. Tables were peppered with tea lights, vintage silverware, and crystal where various eats called home.  An endless array of eccentric bottles of wine to small batch rum sat across from a cornucopia of various dishes emanating smells of roast pork and warmed cheese.

It was no question as to where our guest of honor would be seated. The crushed velvet chair with mink throws sat at the head of the table. Despite the invitation requesting wine in lieu of gifts, small colorful packages continued to gather near Mr. Jackson’s plate by the time dinner was served. With linens in laps, cursive names on place settings, the sound of forks scraping plates was muted amongst the harmonious laughter and raging conversation.

As baroque music played throughout the courses, Jay was asked to give a toast. Mr. Jackson’s toast had a theme and the theme surrounded wealth. However, it was not in regards to the wealth of one’s pocket, but of one’s life.  Wealth as a metaphor for one’s friends. Jay is clearly a very wealthy man.  Like moths to a flame, Jay’s magnetic personality draws people to him. Jay shines so bright and all are drawn to partake in the celebration of his life.

The evening’s attire was not to be missed. From glittering silk dresses to velvet jackets, the guests’ clothing obeyed chic standards.  Although the high society feel was often questioned while guests chose to perform song selections including Flashdance and Baby Got Back on karaoke, trays of homemade peanut brittle and southern coconut cake sat perched within arms distance as a reminder of the evening’s elegance.  

If gastronomy is the study of the liaison between culture and food, this special evening was a gastronomic affair of not only our taste buds, but of civilization. 

Happy Birthday to our beloved, Jay Jackson.