Clay Cartland and Mary Damiano

The festivities began early this year for the 2014 Carbonell Award nominees as they were celebrated at the Carbonell Nominee Reception and Ice Cream Social Monday March 23, 2015, at ArtServe in Fort Lauderdale.

“It was like a kids’ party for adults, a counterpoint to the formality of the Carbonell Awards ceremony,” said Mary Damiano, Carbonell Awards Managing Director.

Show tunes from Broadway musicals, candlelit tables and balloons provided the perfect ambiance for the festivities as more than 80 guests enjoyed a variety of gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches from Ms. Cheezious, scoops of ice cream with a variety of toppings, and donut Munchkins. The party was generously underwritten by board member Jerry Cohen.

Lisa Richberg and Mary Damiano smooching Carbonell Nominee Matthew Korinko

In her acknowledgements, Damiano praised the nominees for their work in a years’ worth of shows.

“It was important that we celebrate the talent and general awesomeness of the performers, directors, and designers who give their all in shows from Cutler Bay to Jupiter,” she told the crowd. “You entertain us, you inspire us, you make us laugh, you make us cry, you give of yourselves in a way that enriches us all, and you have helped make South Florida a thriving, vibrant, region for theatre. Bravo to you all!”

Photos courtesy of Chuck Field