Abilene Recreation of Eisenhower-era State Dinner to Fund the Arts

Abilene Recreation of Eisenhower-era State Dinner to Fund the Arts

The Arts Council of Dickinson County Plans Unique Event for June 25th

The Arts Council of Dickinson County (ACDC) is hosting its annual fundraiser on Saturday, June 25 at 6:00 p.m. at the Eisenhower Presidential Library Courtyard.  This year's theme, "An Evening at the White House," will capture the elegance of an Eisenhower-era State Dinner.

During President Dwight Eisenhower's administration from 1953 to1961, State Dinners were formal affairs to honor foreign heads of state.  Dignitaries and politicians would dine in the White House and then enjoy a musical performance. Some of the notable guests included Nikita Khrushchev of the Soviet Union, the Prince and Princess of Japan, and Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain, among many others.

ACDC’s event will commence with a cocktail reception in the Library Lobby featuring 1950s cocktails such as Pink Ladies, Sidecars, and Manhattans.  The four-course meal prepared and served by Applemint Catering has been created from actual White House menus and will feature some of the First Family's favorite recipes.  A replica of Mrs. Eisenhower's china will be used.  

Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum acting Director Tim Rives and curator William Snyder will provide historical insights of State Dinners and their significance.  There will also be a brief reenactment speech from a “President Eisenhower.”

Following the dinner, guests will move to the Eisenhower Library Auditorium where the Kansas Wesleyan University Chorale will perform song selections taken from actual performances at the White House.  This 22-person chorale is led by the Salina Symphony's Maestro Ken Hakoda.  

Major sponsors for the event are Ralph Viola, First Bank Kansas, Joe and June Nold, West's Plaza Country Mart, RHV Do It Best Hardware, and Reynolds Real Estate.  Numerous underwriters have also extended their support.

Tickets are $65 per person or $120 for two with $40 tax-deductible per ticket as allowable by the tax code.  They may be purchased by calling 785-263-1884 or at artscouncildc.org before June 20. Space is limited.

The Arts Council is a 501(c)3 organization and is reliant on private donations to conduct its mission to act as a coordinating, educational, and service organization to foster, promote, encourage and increase the knowledge of the arts in Dickinson County.

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