Charlie and Rebecca Asfour
Charlie and Rebecca Asfour
Shedd President and CEO Bridget Coughlin and her husband, Brian Wegner
Shedd gala co-chairs David and Lesly Koo with Alissa and Tom King
Violinists stayed mostly dry during the aquatic entertainment.
Hilary and Buddy Semple
The Chicago Children’s Choir was an inspirational part of the evening
Chicago philanthropists gathered for an oceanic evening of spectacle at Shedd Aquarium’s annual board of trustees gala, Dark Waters.
THE PARTY Shedd was transformed into an elegant marine paradise by Kehoe Designs for the evening, which benefits the aquarium’s conservation efforts and educational programs.
THE PEOPLE Shedd President and CEO Bridget Coughlin joined 700 chic aqua enthusiasts for the black-tie affair as they sipped Champagne, took in the city’s skyline and dined alongside the mysterious creatures in the aquarium’s Abbott Oceanarium exhibit. After dinner, guests relaxed in the Submerged Lounge, snacked on late-night tacos and created delicious combinations at the season-your-own popcorn station.
THE PINNACLE The Chicago Children’s Choir and Aloft Circus surprised guests with performances in the Abbott Oceanarium where belugas, dolphins, penguins and sea lions came out to play, bringing the dark waters to life. The evening raised $1.9 million—a midnight to remember. –Katy Rose O’Brien; photos by Dan Rest and Heidi Zeiger
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