Doris Duke's “Rough Point” Becomes Shangri-La for IMC Gala

Rob Bailey & "Shangri-La" Chair Teddy Aspegren

It was all about dancing. As if “Rough Point,” the former Doris Duke estate on Bellevue Avenue, was not already glamorous enough, it was transformed into an exotic Shangri La recently, as over 200 guests arrived for the IMC Gala in black tie, ready to swing and rock to the lively beat of Alex Donner’s band at the dinner dance and auction to benefit the Island Moving Company (IMC), the Newport based dance company which provides magical performances and innovative programs for dedicated young dancers, as well outreach programs for students in local schools.

Evoking an aura of the Orient, a pair of camels, lifesize sculptures on the lawn greeted guests as they pulled into the Rough Point driveway. The first of several evening highlights was the arrival of Doris Duke’s chauffeur- driven, fully restored 1938 Packard. An opportunity to ride in this regal antique gem – emblazoned with the initials DD - down Bellevue Avenue was part of the auction package “Live Like an Heiress, a Day in the Life of Doris Duke.” Among the couples photographed in front of the auto were benefit chair Theodora Aspegren and Rob Bailey, both splendidly attired in brocade oriental costumes – treasures unearthed in the attic of Teddy’s parents, according to Rob.

Other eye stoppers were the five junior volunteers – students of the Newport dance academy – clad in brilliant turquoise silk trousers and tunics with gold braid. They were selling flashing buttons to festively adorn the guests’ attire. Now a benefit tradition, the button concept was conceived by IMC volunteer Roberta Milam as a mini -fundraiser.

Cocktails were served on the terrace overlooking the sea, with music by

Rough Point photo by Thomas Roskelly

Michael Walsh at the keyboard. En route to the terrace, guests experienced the gracious lifestyle of yesteryear, the fine architectural details of Rough Point, and the interior décor as they progressed through the entry foyer, living room and solarium.

Teddy Aspegren sounded the gong, which called everyone to dinner in the tent, where the Alex Donner band was warming up with “Anything Goes.” Dancing began, and a three-course dinner proceeded, during which Island company artist David DuBois told the story of how learning to dance through IMC programs had transformed his life.

Theodora Aspegren and Rob Bailey mingled in their Oriental attire for cocktails, which were served on the foggy terrace before the dinner in a tent on the grounds. Kimberly Skeen-Jones danced non-stop,and junior committee members Erin and Thomas Ribero cut a fashionable rug. Island Moving Company Chairman Ellen Barnes hosted a lively, crowded table that included Ruth Orthwein, G. Spencer Berger, committee member Mary Lou Riker, and Dr. Anthony Regine.

Kathy Kingston presided over the auction, aided by members of the Island Dance Company, who strutted their stuff to accentuate the auction items as they were announced. Among the top auction specials were “Live Like a Heiress: A Day in the Life of Doris Duke” which included shopping perks in addition to the ride in her l938 Packard; a Roman Holiday, and a personal portrait by artist Christina Pell Randall.