The Choral Arts Society Holiday Gala

Debra Kraft and Emily Riffle, Photo By Kyle Samperton

Always one of the most anticipated holiday events of the year, the Choral Arts Society’s Gallic-themed gala at the Kennedy Center was a perfect way to begin a “Joyeux Noël.” French Ambassador Pierre Vimont served as honorary chairman of the evening, which featured classic French carols during the performance in the Concert Hall, followed by dinner on the Roof Terrace. A surprise highlight was a performance by former Steely Dan and Dooby Brothers guitarist Jeff “Skunk” Baxter that kept everyone on the dance floor late into the night. IN THE CROWD: Alan Schlaifer, Deborah Carlston, Cinnie Fehr, Susan Reichardt, Jenny Wallace, Eric Gates, Kazakhstan Amb. Erlan Idrisov and Nurilla Idrissova, Marilyn Pederson, and Jean and Don Wolf.

Hungarian Amb. Béla Szombati and Suzanna Szombati, Photo by Kyle Samperton

Bill and Karen Schuiling, Photo by Kyle Samperton

Jean Wolf and Patricia Sagon, Photo by Kyle Samperton

Deborah Houlihan and Betsy Holleman, Photo by Kyle Samperton