“It’s time to open the dance floor — like open sesame,” jazz pianist-turned-“rockjazz” composer and in-demand DJ Elew instructed the crowd at the Grace Farms Foundation’s fourth-anniversary celebration in New Canaan, Conn., on Saturday night.
Attendees enthusiastically obeyed and got down as Elew spun tunes from rap to AC/DC, with saxophonist Marcus G. Miller blowing his horn live on the dance floor.
Among the VIP crowd of 300 at the upscale humanitarian shindig were foundation founder Sharon Prince, event co-chairs Abby Bangser and Amanda Martocchio, former Esquire editor Jay Fielden, author James Frey, jewelry designer Monique Péan, skin-care guru Tata Harper, Blum & Poe partner Matt Bangser, “Chopped”-winning chef Silvia Baldini and British socialite Lexi Bowes-Lyon (cousin of William and Harry).
The night — which also brought together top activists, artists, influencers and business leaders — raised half a million dollars and included an auction and a performance by the Parisa Khobdeh Dance Company with members of the Paul Taylor Dance Company. Ethical sweets brand Tony’s Chocolonely was honored.