On September 16, The Granada Theatre hosted yet another exquisite Legends Gala, this time honoring philanthropists Brooks and Kate Firestone, Ensemble Theatre Company, and Fannie Flagg.
Guests were greeted at the theater entrance and in the foyer by young State Street Ballet trainees sporting classic white tutus and posing in iconic Giselle second act poses. It was a taste of a performance to come — State Street Ballet will perform Giselle next month to music by fellow resident company, the Santa Barbara Symphony.
The 240 guests enjoyed an extended reception in the Founders Room and in the lobby areas, followed by dinner on an elegantly appointed stage. Master of Ceremonies Andrew Firestone, son of Brooks and Kate, began the program on a jovial note, remarking that “most importantly, we are here tonight to honor Kate Firestone —philanthropist, soloist at the Royal Ballet — but my contract obligation says that I have to mention her date, Brooks Firestone.”