NRCA Celebrates Summer Solstice at Wildlcliff Mansion

On June 21st the New Rochelle Council on the Arts held a Summer Solstice fundraiser to kick off the season, creating a magical evening at the recently restored Wildlcliff Mansion.

It's not often that the solstice falls within a day of the full moon —about every 20 years or so -- and this party was definitely history making as the first public event in the revitalized space, once a 19th century Gothic Revival home designed by noted architect Alexander Jackson Davis.

Despite the sultry weather a steady, cooling breeze kept guests comfortable as they enjoyed a sumptuous spread from Stanz Café. Andrew Vivolo of 18th Ward Brewing was on hand to offer beer tastings, and Stephen Semenza of the Pawfect Brew provided desserts and samples of his custom blended coffee (the company donates 25% of its profits to local animal shelters.) Visual artist Hannah Jupiter was also on site giving a live demonstration, creating a special collage.

Musical entertainment included sets by acclaimed flutist Pamela Sklar and indie folk singer Lauren Mian, providing the perfect soundtrack to an evening where everyone sported flower crowns and – as the light changed and the sun began to set -- lighted wands!

Summer Solstice committee chair Liz Garland called the party “a fantastic night and a great venue,” adding “the synergy of our committee was incredible.” Co-chair Margaret Chadwick agreed: “A great event is only as wonderful as its team members and we had the very best,” she said. In addition to the co-chairs the Summer Solstice event committee included NRCA Board members Marisa Boan, Dave Fabris, Linda Kelly Fauci, Lynn Green, Janine Jones, Theresa Kump Leghorn and Christine Ramage.

NRCA’s beloved Summer Sounds Concert Series begins its 17th season on June 26th with two nights of free music each week (Wednesdays and Fridays at 7:30 pm) at Hudson Park. For a complete schedule visit www.newrochellearts.org