Theatre Memphis to Host AN AMERICAN IN PARIS Gala, 5/15

An American in Paris, an elegant evening of entertainment and classic cuisine will be held on May 15, 2015 at Theatre Memphis beginning at 6:30pm. Internationally known designer Brian J. McCarthy will speak regarding his designs and new book release, Luminous Interiors, and the seated dinner will be prepared by celebrity chef, José Gutierrez of River Oaks Restaurant.

Theatre Memphis Executive Producer, Debbie Litch, says, "We had the opportunity to host this evening with Brian as a fundraiser for the theatre and we decided to go all out. With clearly one of the best chefs in the region in José with his French culinary background and with Brian's connection to design in Paris, we felt the theme An American in Paris was festive." In addition to the design presentation and the dinner (which will be held in the Next Stage transformed into an elegant French bistro), there will be an all-Gershwin music presentation, a pre-dinner cocktail hour with passed hors d'oeuvres and a live and silent auction with some exclusive items, including a trip to New York, City.

A former partner of the legendary design firm Parish-Hadley, McCarthy graduated from New York City's Pratt Institute and has worked on projects around the world. In 2005, McCarthy designed the private quarters and refurbished the State Rooms in Winfield House, the official residence of the Ambassador to the Court of St. James. Additionally, he has designed an array of stunning private residences around the United States. He is based out of New York City and Paris, France.

Chef Gutierrez's exceptional culinary creativity can be traced to his French heritage and Southern influences. Although native to France with Spanish roots, Chef José has been a Memphis resident for over 30 years. He began his culinary career at the Professional Culinary School in Manosque, France and then worked with several esteemed chefs and trained with Chef Paul Bocuse, creator of Nouvelle Cuisine. In 1982, he began a distinguished career at the Peabody Hotel's Chez Philippe hosting for master chefs, artists and guests including dignitaries like Julia Child. In 2005, Chef José opened his own restaurant, Encore Restaurant and Bar, and five years later joined River Oaks Restaurant, which he and his wife, Colleen, now own.

There is limited seating available for the fete and tickets are available at the Theatre Memphis box office at 630 Perkins Extd, by calling 901.682.8323 or online at theatrememphis.org/an-american-in-paris. Reservations are $225 per person or $400 per couple with $100 tax-deductible per ticket. Included in the price, guests will also receive a copy of McCarthy's book and have the opportunity to have him sign the book during the evening.