Star Chef: From Surf to Supper
On May 19, led by Co-Chairs Gail Doe and Ashleigh Aitken, the SCR Cuisine Committee met with Chef Chris Savage to discuss what they tell us (and we believe them) will be a fantastic menu for “The Play’s the Thing,” on September 11 at the Hyatt Regency.
Savage, who begins his work day riding the waves off Huntington Beach, hails from Australia by way of London and cites Asian, Mediterranean and Italian influences in his menu of dishes. For the Gala, he will prepare a four-course dinner (preceded by a unique variety of hors d’oeuvres)—dramatically presented (after all, the Gala is a theatrical event) and, of course, delicious. The menu is still a work-in-progress, but we hear it will begin with a variety of salads, include a pasta course, a beef and fish course, and a splendid dessert.***
After Savage returned to work, the full Gala Committee met in the hotel’s Vista II Room, named for its sweeping ocean view, where they enjoyed selections from the chef’s catering menu. Gala Chair Sophie Cripe welcomed everyone and announced that the Gala Patron Party—which annually honors major underwriters will be held on August 18.***
Other big news: J.T. & the California Dreamin’ will be back! The hugely popular band, a hit at SCR’s 2007 and 2008 Gala Balls, is led by Orange County entrepreneur John Tu, who will again be on the drums. The band’s jazz combo will play during dinner, with the big band coming on for dancing until midnight.***
***Watch these pages for updates!
