Shrimpfest heats things up

While winter weather may be an unreliable feature of the West Texas climate, the Ellen Noël Art Museum’s 26th annual Shrimpfest fundraiser 7 p.m. Feb. 27 is sure to heat things up a notch.

“It’s supposed to be a ‘lose your blues’ (event),” Shrimpfest Assistant Chair Liz Roberson said. “We want you to come out there and feel like you’re in Mardi Gras, listen to good jazz music and eat good shrimp.”

Inspired by the pomp and revelry of a New Orleans celebration, guests will be able to feast on Shrimpfest’s most celebrated feature, about 1,200 pounds of shrimp cooked with secret spices based on a recipe from Pascal’s Manale Restaurant in the Big Easy.

At a preview party Monday morning, local media got a sneak peak taste of the Shrimpfest shrimp, as well as five other recipes to be featured at the sponsor-only cocktail reception preceding Shrimpfest.

Roberson said sponsor tables are still available to purchase, with tables available for $1,200, $3,000 or $5,000.

Shrimpfest chef Gabe Grewell said neither he nor other Odessans ever tire of the Shrimpfest recipe. Grewell said he also enjoys seeing around 1,500 people enjoy his culinary creations every year.

“It’s a really good feeling, and that’s part of why I volunteer,” Grewell said.

Another Shrimpfest staple, Main Stream Jazz Quartet, will provide the evening’s music.

A live and silent auction will also be available at Shrimpfest, as well as a raffle featuring a gold, silver and amethyst bracelet valued at $2,400 from Sam Majors Jewelers. Raffle tickets are $20 each or 6 for $100.

Although not their only fundraiser, Shrimpfest funds much of Ellen Noël Museum’s operations and expenses for the year, said Jean Hoelscher, Ellen Noël director of development.

Roberson said last year, around $130,000 was raised with most of the money going toward the museum’s educational programs.

“It’s a great community event, and it does make you feel the community is supportive of the museum,” Hoelscher said.

@OAcitylife