During the birthday week of Beach Blanket Babylon star Renée Lubin, the legendary performer was celebrated as part of the San Francisco Bay Times co-produced event series Divas & Drinks @ The Academy on Friday, August 26. Many other former stars of the iconic, long-running San Francisco musical review attended, such as Curt Branom, who led a toast to Lubin, and Lauren Howard Brintz.
After a welcome from emcee Donna Sachet, the San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band (SFLGFB) led by drum major Mike Wong began the festivities by playing for Lubin and guests. Representing Mayor London Breed, Ralph Remington, who is the Director of Cultural Affairs for the San Francisco Arts Commission, along with the Commission’s Director of Communications Coma Te, presented a proclamation from the Mayor. Gifts were presented to Lubin by Alysha Lofton from the Golden State Warriors, Carol Gancia of Kokak Chocolates, and the San Francisco Bay Times team. Included were a multi-stem magenta orchid, one of Lubin’s favorite flowers; a Veuve Clicquot (her fave bubbly) gift basket; and a custom-made birthday cake.
A highlight of the evening was Lubin, exquisitely accompanied by Dr. Dee Spencer on keyboard, singing a flawless and soulful version of the Aretha Franklin hit “(You Make Me Feel Like a) Natural Woman” followed by the George Gershwin classic “Summertime,” which was updated with a unique swing twist for the evening. Read more about their performance and view a video of it here: https://tinyurl.com/45p6u6t2
The SFLGFB, along with Band member Dr. Spencer, played “Happy Birthday” as guests sang to Lubin. Attendees included jazz and cabaret singer Paula West, actress Diane Amos, former ABC7 News reporter Carolyn Tyler, PR maven Pernella Sommerville, and many other local luminaries. They were joined by other friends as well as family members of Lubin, including her husband and son.
Branom’s toast recalled Lubin’s friendship, professionalism, talent, and philanthropic service. Lubin actively supports many nonprofits and other charitable groups, such as Jack & Jill SF, The Links, the SF Gay Men’s Chorus, the SFLGFB, and other LGBT organizations as well as those focusing on helping women of color and children in need.
Also honored during the evening was San Francisco Bay Times intern Tabitha Parent, who will be leaving soon to attend Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism. Her column for the Bay Times will resume in October.
Following the initial primary program for the event, emcee Donna Sachet and DJ Rockaway presented by Olivia led Name That Tune featuring the return of the champion Team SF Federal Credit Union, led by Captain Warren Alderson, who took on Team Golden State Warriors led by Captain Lofton. The champions prevailed, but agreed to a rematch with Team Warriors at the next Divas & Drinks event.
All attending enjoyed served hors d’oeuvres from La Méditerranée and refreshments from Extreme Pizza. Barcardí created a special cocktail menu that included the Renée-arita (Tequila Cazadores, St. Germain, lime) and the King Louis (Grey Goose, ginger-orange syrup, lemon, gingerbeer).
Special thanks to Rink and Tabitha Parent for their photography and to volunteers Juan R. Davila, Warren Alderson, and Steve Scheitlin.
Join us for the next Divas & Drinks on Friday September 30, 6–10 pm, featuring special guests: Jeopardy! Champion Amy Schneider, CHEER SF, and The Transgender Law Center!
Published on September 8, 2022
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