The ALS in Wonderland extravaganza never fails to be a visual spectacle, and its eighth annual incarnation was no exception.
This year's event took on a circus theme. "Under the Big Top" -- hosted by the foundation as a benefit for people living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS -- was held May 18 at the State Fairgrounds' Hall of Industry in Little Rock.
The evening began with a reception during which VIP guests chose from 200 top hats fashioned by "Mad Hatters" Melissa Rollins, Jennifer Gardner-Glaze and Melissa Higginbotham. Heavy hors d'oeuvres, including circus-theme dessert treats, were served, along with libations.
Foundation creator Laura Blume McGee teamed up with actor, comedian and author Michael Colyar (Blackish, The Princess and the Frog, Martin) to co-host an evening of entertainment that began with the 2019 ALS Warriors -- Jim Bell, Belinda Whitman, Barry Wright and Harry Bickerton -- being honored and introduced via slide show.
The highlight was a fashion show by creative director Skot Thompson with children and adults displaying costumes along with clothing from local boutiques Haus of Naliz, Luv, Q Clothier and Rendezvous Formal Wear. The climax of the show? Circus couture by Thompson -- clown, juggler, fortune teller, trapeze girl, sword swallower, tightrope walker, knife thrower, tattooed lady, snake charmer, the Strongest Man, the Bearded Lady and the Ringmaster. A short magic show by Aaron Acosta was also part of the entertainment.
All proceeds will be used to help the people who, McGee says emphatically, should not be simply referred to as "patients." The organization thus far has granted more than $300,000 to Arkansans with ALS, she says.
High Profile on 05/26/2019