Players offering unique auction at fundraiser

You want to plan an incredibly creative dinner party, but what’s left to do that’s unique?

You’ve always wanted to be on stage, but who’s got time for all those rehearsals?

Company’s coming, but wouldn’t you love to put them up somewhere special (that’s not your place)?

Solutions to all of the above are available to auction bidders on Saturday Oct. 6 at the Wimberley Players annual fundraiser. Entitled Under the Tuscan Moon, the “bella festa” is scheduled 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Messina Inn, Wimberley’s own Mediterranean venue.

“Our event is going to be unique, combining elegance and fun, and we wanted our live auction of just a few select items to be unique, too,” said Bob Smith, Players VP development and chair of the event.

“We’ll offer a one-of-akind dinner party for up to 12 people, just for example,” he said. “None other than Michael Fracasso, internationally renowned singer songwriter and chef, will preside over the party at Vintage Oaks Farm, 400 Limestone Lane.” An authentic Texas musician born to Itailan parents, he was part of the New York folk scene for many years. For the winning bidder, Michael will prepare a fabulous dinner, and follow it with a lively private concert.” Another innovative aspect of the evening: guests are welcome to observe and assist as Michael prepares dinner. “Foodies, ready your bids!” said Chick Morgan, a member of the fundraiser team and coordinator of this event.

For wannabe thespians, the Players will auction a walk-on role for one performance of the musical, “Best Little Whorehouse in Texas,” slated for mid-summer at the Wimberley Playhouse. “Haven’t we all had that urge to be under the stage lights, just once?” said Sissi Baskin, who is also working on the fundraiser.

And for visitors who would enjoy a memorable stay in Wimberley (or maybe a staycation for Wimberleyites) bids can be made on one of three distinctive lodgings: a glamorous Tuscan styled suite at Messina Inn; a brand new, perfectly appointed “Hen House” cabin at Vintage Oaks Farm, or a privately owned, modernized “Dog House” down a country lane in Wimberley.

“We’ll have a few surprise items to be announced at the event,” Wimberley Players president and auctioneer David Bisett commented. Gennaro’s Trattoria and event food chair Nancy Williams have planned an outstanding Italian-themed menu. There’ll be complimentary wine, a cash bar and musical entertainment by soprano Keeley Hooker.

“We sincerely believe this adds up to a wonderful evening,” Bisett said. “I’d like to thank our guests in advance for supporting our brand of high quality live theatre for the central Texas hill country.”

Messina Inn is located at 1000 Cypress Creek Lane. Tickets are $100, available at www.wimberleyplayers.org.