The Works works it at annual fundraiser

NEWARK - The Works had a blast from the past for an out of sight time with groovy music and far out costumes Saturday for its Cocktails by the Fire.

A fundraiser for the museum's glass studio, the event's 1960s theme brought food, friends and music together for a hip night.

"Tonight is more of a 'friendraiser' for the museum and it's a great opportunity to show off Licking County's assets," said Stephanie McManus, The Works Director of Development. "We wouldn't be able to hold this event without the help of the volunteers and all the event partners."

The museum took reservations for the event, but attendees could still pay at the door. McManus said that by the cut-off time Friday, there were around 300 RSVPs, and with walk-ins, attendance would be around the same as last year.

Marcia Downes, managing director at The Works, said that the fundraiser brought in $30,000 last year and this year's event was "on track" to bring in just as much.

Among the crowd, there were a lot of tasseled vests, long hair and colored glasses.

Ed Albertson, dressed as Sgt. Pepper, said he was enjoying the event, wearing his authentic cadet jacket from his time at a military academy.

"I love this party. I think the fact that it's themed really is what draws in the crowds," he said.

Ned White came dressed as Beatle Paul McCartney. He said he found the event fun. He and his wife Aimee have attended the cocktail party before, enough to lose count of it.

This year they came as part of a group costume, with three of the group dressed as the Beatles from the cover of the Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts album cover.

"It's a good fundraiser and everyone gets into the theme, it's really fun to see people dressed up," White said.

Granville resident Reen Barkett said she looks forward to the party every year.

"I've been to about 10 of their 11 parties so far, and I've got to say, this is the best cocktail in town," she said, adding that this year's theme is fun and unique.

"I've brought my kids to the museum. It just offers so many benefits to the community," Barkett said.

Live music by the British Invasion band The Moon Bats set the mood, donated decorations from the 60s era set the scene and patrons could enjoy the glass studio with live demonstrations and auctioned pieces.

This year's party is especially important as the museum enters its 20th year of operation, Marcia Downes said.

"This event is great. It gets people in the door so they can see downtown Newark and get them excited for the works," she said. "It's a fun adult night at the museum."

blawlis@gannett.com

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Twitter: @BarrettLawlis