By Vanessa Wolf

The 3rd annual gala celebration fundraiser known as the “Fantasia Ball” is this Saturday, April 5 and features a black and white theme.

The event benefits Imua Family Services, an organization that began its journey helping children with polio in 1947.

In addition to a cocktail reception and “spectacular chef-inspired dinner,” attendees can anticipate a couture fashion show, dance performances, and, organizers claim, presentations from Mayor Alan Arakawa and Governor Abercrombie.

Organizers note that the menu includes:

• Chef-carved herb crusted roasted prime rib
• Crab crusted mahi mahi
• Hibachi grilled salmon
• Shoyu braised Chicken
• Stir-fried seasonal veggies
• Pineapple Upside Down Cake
• Haupia Squares
• Warm bread pudding
• Chocolate mousse cups
• Fruit tarts

The featured artist at this year’s Black and White Ball is fashion designer from the ballyhoo design house Monarrez.

Monarrez’s fashion offerings are described as a “unique, timeless style combining the rules of American ready-to-wear fashion, the traditions of European Haute-Couture and the sensuality of his Latin heritage. He specializes in occasion attire using luxurious fabrics fit for the red carpet. MONaRREZ can be seen on celebrities, Miss America, in fashion editorials and was recently named the designer for the Miss Universe Pageant. In the last four years, the Hector-Javier MONaRREZ Collection has become the most respected fashion design house in the city of Chicago.”

In addition, the UH Maui College Fashion Technology Program club will be presenting black and white couture of their own design.

Other entertainment includes the Maui Cello Quartet, Kelly Covington and Espresso Band, Seabury Hall dancers, ballroom dancers of the Rita O’Connor Private Image Dance Studio; singers Joy Fields and Maui’s Teen Talent show casers, Mikela Wesson, Kaimana Neal and Marea Lee; and Maui Taiko, just to name a few of the highlights.

Held in the Monarchy Ballroom, Hyatt Regency Maui, Ka’anapali, the ball begins at 6 p.m. and tickets are $175.

The Fantasia Ball is followed by the official after-party, Fantasia After Dark.

Sponsored by Ocean Vodka, at 10 p.m. the adjoining ballroom becomes an “extravagant dance party” with the models, fashion designers and dancers from the ball and entertainment by DJ Del Sol. Tickets for the after party only are $30 in advance at $40 at the door. Admission is included as part of the ball.