YOU SHOULD KNOW
Santa Barbara News-Press
March 3, 2005
by Karna Hughes
A "Flights of Fancy" storybook playhouse will be auctioned off at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History's Mission Creek Gala Friday. When asked to create the playhouse, "I couldn't resist," artist builder Barbara Butler says. "I love birds, art, museums and especially kids!
Birds of a feather will flock together when the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History hosts its sixth annual Mission Creek Gala from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday.
This year's theme is "Flights of Fancy," with all manner of winged creatures decorating the Fleischmann Auditorium, where the black-tie gala will be held.
The event features a cocktail party, a dinner with flight-themed courses and a live auction emceed by comedian John Cleese.
Auction items include behind the scenes parties at the Natural History Museum, such as dinner for 10 in the Butterfly Pavilion, a children's birthday party and cocktail parties in the Gladwin Planetarium and at Ty Warner Sea Center.
A highlight of the auction is a children's storybook playhouse, created specially for the event by artist Barbara Butler. The colorful creation measures 5 1/2 feet wide, 5 1/2 feet long and 9 feet tall. Valued at $19,000, the opening bid for the playhouse is $5,000.
Tickets to the event are $250. Call 682-4711, ext. 343, for information.
Proceeds support the museum's School Services program, which serves more than 15,500 children from kindergarten through 12th grade each year.
For Media & Publicity Inquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Jeanette Brown
Sarah Hall Productions, Inc.
670 Broadway - Suite 504
New York, NY 10012
Email: jeanette@shpny.com
Phone:(212) 529-1598
Fax:(212) 529-3171
