Gold Productions 

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tampa Bay Storybook Ball 2009

"Lasso the Moon"

This year's 'Storybook Ball' depicted the Golden book entitled "Lasso the Moon." Each year Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tampa Bay chooses a popular children's book to feature. The invitations are actually a copy of the book with special inserts for the guests and corporate/individual sponsors.

Gold Productions takes on the responsibility of interpreting the story and bringing the look and feel of the pages to life. The décor for the cocktail and silent auction areas feature the authentic "Old West", complete with barn vignettes and "WANTED" posters featuring solutions to the medical needs of children, the very purpose of Ronald McDonald House Charities.  Rustic road signs led guests south of the border to "Senor Eddy's", where guests enjoyed cigars and 'shooters' in an outdoor Mexican Cantina. Fabulous sounds of a saloon piano player and talented characters of the West flourished in excitement.

A switch in gears as guests entered the ballroom for an evening of dining, dancing and live auctions: They were stunned by the modern, sleek interpretation of the story... leaving the "OLD West" behind. Huge spandex stars illuminated the ceilings while spandex also clung sharply to the chairs. White draping surrounded the room with hues of blue light and gobos of stars and a coyote howling at the moon! Tables were embellished with midnight blue pintuck linens; hot orange or red satin sashes and napkins tied in a knot; cow hide overlays; and centerpieces of beautiful florals, tall glass with cactus and white rocks topped with lighted spandex shades or lighted star nebulas. Beautiful cowboy hats (donated by Busch Gardens) made a perfect gift at each place setting.

Busch Gardens supplied all of the fabulous entertainers for the evening … cowboys on stilts, western dancers & cowboy living statues! Guests danced the night away with the fabulous sounds of the band Hologram. "Old Time Photos" were taken in the "Outhouse" and guests could try their luck at bull-riding in the ring!

Please enjoy a sampling of this fantastic event …