Profant Foundation Fundraiser is Exceptional
Entertaining Event Raises Scholarship Funds for Area Artists
On August 4, the John E. Profant Foundation for the Arts hosted its 20th annual Fiesta Finale, a fabulous evening of mingling and dining followed by stellar dance, song, and musical performances in the intimate setting of El Paseo Restaurant. Event proceeds fund scholarships for Santa Barbara County artists of all ages.
A sold-out crowd of 170 guests, many clad in Fiesta attire, mingled during the lively reception in the festively decorated dining room while the Martinez Brothers provided the tunes. Emcee Mignonne Profant, one of the family foundation’s founders, welcomed guests and introduced Andres Vadin, who provided lovely flamenco guitar music during the dinner hour. At the close of dinner, when most fundraisers end, the evening was just beginning. An outstanding line-up of performers dazzled the audience and, thanks to the intimate setting of El Paseo, each guest enjoyed an immersive experience.
To kick off the show, Arthur Murray Dance Studio owners Kristen Salazar and Serge Chmelnitzki performed a lively and fun cha-cha number. Tenor Marco Antonio Labastida serenaded guests with melodies of Fiesta, endearing himself to many in the room. Brittany Petersen and Josh Ochoa delighted the audience with a bolero performance. Past scholarship recipients The Santa Barbara Piano Boys — Rhyan Shweyk, 14, and Zeyn Shweyk, 15 — wowed the audience with duets. The Piano Boys have been playing classical piano since age 5, composing since age 8, and teaching others for a couple of years.
