by Alexia Cameron

As far as lavish anniversaries go, this one takes the cake. The King Arts Complex's approximately 1,300 guests will celebrate the 21st annual Anniversary Gala "Artistry of Soul" on May 17.

As local performer Shaun Booker describes it, the extravagant gala feels more like one well-dressed family reunion.

"It is the largest gathering of classy people all year," Booker says. "I've been here 20 years and I’m just amazed that there are people that are as sentimental and nostalgic of the arts as myself.”

Located just minutes from downtown in one of the oldest African American Communities in Columbus, the gathering is the King Arts Complex's largest fundraising event of the year. Proceeds from the event support the on-going educational and programming activities of the institution- making the event the ideal way to spend the evening partying with a purpose.

The “Artistry of Soul” affair will feature live entertainment from national recording artist Dwele, with neo-soul performances by Booker, the Andrew Waters Trio and T. Michael Branner, among other local talents.

A diverse group of caterers and restaurants will provide an array of food selections for guests to indulge in. City BBQ, Creole Kitchen, Columbus State Culinary School and Linden Café are among the 14 vendors slated to be at the Gala.

“This year the food will provide more of a unique experience, all of the caterers give you different tastes,” says Kay Wiebell, membership director for the King Arts Complex. “There will be Asian food in one room, chicken and waffles in another, and at midnight we will open up a coffee shop.”
The gala will provide 60,000 square feet of fun and entertainment. There will be eight opulent rooms to mingle in - each providing its own distinct ambiance - and two 60-by-40-foot tents will house guests outside as the intermix throughout the gala.

Guests will have the opportunity to try their hand against Lady Luck at the KAC Casino, featuring blackjack, roulette, Texas Hold ‘Em and, new this year, slot machines.

The “Artistry of Soul” will also feature a silent auction with original works by nationally acclaimed artists and fine jewelers.

“People don’t realize what a wealth of intelligence and artistry is right here in Columbus,” Booker says. “It’s not Chicago or L.A. but I think we can compete on their level at any given time.”

Booker competed against 68 bands in the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tenn., and was selected as being one of the top 10 “unsigned” blues bands in the world in 2001. This will be her third year performing at the King Arts Complex Gala and she wants everyone to know the event is not limited to guests of one culture.

“Everyone should come just to get a piece of the culture because that’s the beginning of understanding,” Booker says. “We’re all blending together anyway, at least that’s what I’m hoping is happening in America.”

Tickets to the soulful couture event begin at $50 per person or $80 per couple for KAC members. Non-members will be $65 per person, $100 per couple. In addition, VIP tickets are available for an additional $25 to the existing ticket price which includes a VIP private reception beginning at 7 p.m.

For more information contact the The King Arts Complex at 614-645-KING or visit www.thekingartscomplex.com.