Under the Sea

THE PARTY More than 650 philanthropists entered the underwater world of sea life at Shedd Aquarium’s black-tie gala, Luminescence, which raised $938,000 to continue conservation initiatives at the aquarium. THE PERFORMERS Gala co-chairs Tracy Souder and Robin Doerge created an evening of land and sea performances. Guests watched The Anchor, a short film inspired by The Artist, featuring longtime Shedd supporter Bill Kurtis, Shedd President and CEO Ted Beattie, and Ken Ramirez, vice president of animal programs and training. In addition, the dynamic duo of Ty (a California sea lion) and Tyrone Fahner, chairman of Shedd’s Board of Trustees, encouraged guests to participate in a paddle raise to support the aquarium’s community access programs. THE SCENE The aquarium’s Beaux Arts clock was an inspiration for the event, and could be seen everywhere from the dance tent’s custom-designed clock-inspired flooring to the tabletop motifs. After dinner alongside the Caribbean Reef, guests relaxed in the lounge created by Heffernan Morgan, played pool and shuffleboard in the Brunswick Game Lounge and indulged in sweet treats from the Long Grove Confectionery candy buffet. Photos Courtesy of John G. Shedd Aquarium