The red carpet at the Regal Hollywood & IMAX theatre was awash in shimmering beads, feathers and grand hats on Sunday, September 22nd to celebrate the movie premiere of Downton Abbey. The beloved television show, which concluded in 2015 after six seasons, is a local fan favorite.
Guests not only lined up to get their first glimpse at the film, but many dressed in period finery in the hopes of winning one of two prizes for Best Costume and Best Hat. The series, which became famous for the stunning costumes, as much as its high-stakes storylines, provided great inspiration. Lovely ladies and dowager countesses sparkled in stylish flapper dresses and long gowns, while guests attired as cooks and maids provided that upstairs/downstairs contrast.
Participants in the contest competed for two $300 Downton Abbey-themed prize packs. Marlen Seville took home the Best Costume prize with her elegant evening ensemble and Terry Hill won for Best Hat.
WUFT Media, North Central Florida’s NPR radio station and PBS television station, and Ocala Style hosted a group of 200 guests.
We chatted with Sandy Wagner, WUFT’s Director of Revenue, Division of Media Properties, at the event about the premiere. “Downton Abbey had such a great run of six seasons with us. I think everybody missed it so much,” explains Wagner. “So we felt that this was a great time to reach out to our members, listeners and viewers and to bring everybody together for a fun event,” she continues. “My favorite part is seeing the smiles on our guests’ faces, especially those who dressed up. Everybody is so enthusiastic and they are all public media fans, which we appreciate greatly.”
VIP ticketholders were treated to a special High Tea with a delectable gourmet spread donated by the Ivy House restaurant.
“We also want to send a big thank you out to our title sponsor, the Law Office of Knellinger, Jacobson and Associates,” Wagner offered.
For more information about upcoming events, log on to www.WUFT.org and check out their event page.
