19th Annual Arts Brunch

Please join us for our 19th annual NYC Celebration of the Arts at Carolina THIS SUNDAY, May 22, 2016 from 12 noon to 2 p.m. at The University Club, One West 54th Street (between Fifth and Madison Aves.), First Floor College Hall  We will honor Ali Farahnakian ’90 as the 18th Recipient of the John L. Haber ’70 (“Habey”) Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Arts.  Last year’s Honoree, actor Frederick Weller ’88 will be among those speaking on behalf of fellow Tar Heel Farahnakian.  Terry Rhodes, UNC Senior Associate Dean for Fine Arts and Humanities, is this year’s emcee.

The price for a bountiful Brunch buffet and beverages is $70.00 (discounted to $55.00 for GAA members).  The price for younger alumni (the classes of 2005-16) is $55.00 (discounted to $40.00 for GAA members).  Not a member?  Join today and receive the discounted price for this event. If you miss pre-registration, please note to bring check or cash for at-the-door admission.

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

After-Party: Please join us immediately following for networking and socializing at Papillon Bistro – 22 East 54 Street (2 blocks from The University Club).

University Club Dress Code: Jacket and tie for men, business attire for women.  No denim permitted.

Questions: Contact Jennifer Farrell ‘12 at clubs@unc.edu or (919) 843-5115.

About Ali Farahnakian

Ali Farahnakian was born in Iran but grew up in Danbury and Bermuda Run, NC.  At UNC, he was a member of the Chi Psi Lodge and received an A.B in Psychology in 1990.  His next stop was Chicago, where he became involved in improvisational comedy and performed at the Windy City’s celebrated Second City, Steppenwolf Company, ImprovOlympics and as one of the founding members of the Upright Citizens Brigade.  After relocating to New York City, Ali founded The People’s Improv Theatre (“The PIT”) in honor of his mentor Del Close.   In 2001, his one-man show “Word of Mouth” was featured at the U.S. Comedy Arts Festival.

Ali wrote for “Saturday Night Live” in the 1999-2000 season and appeared for many years as a sketch performer on “Late Night with Conan O’Brian.”  Over the years, he has appeared in films such as Edge of Darkness and Arthur as well as making countless guest appearances on episodic TV, including all “Law and Order” franchises, “30 Rock,” “Louie” “Adult Swim,” “Inside Amy Schumer” and “Madam Secretary” among others.

Ali continues to wear many hats, and among the businesses he actively runs in NYC include The Pit, Simple Studios, Pioneers Bar (a local watering hole and performance space in Chelsea), and Pit Lofts.  He’s the husband of Beth Saunders and the father of Ella and Olivia.

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Date:
May 22, 2016
Time:
12pm
Location:
University Club 1 W 54th St New York NY 10019