The vibrant tapestry of New York City nightlife was momentarily woven with memories of the late comedy legend Joan Rivers at an extravagant birthday celebration for her longtime publicist, Scott Currie. Hosted at the River Club, this gathering not only commemorated Currie’s 60 years but also served as a fitting tribute to Rivers, who remains a persistent source of laughter and inspiration. The very essence of the event encompassed the charisma and humor that Rivers brought into the world, encapsulated perfectly by the menu item featuring one of her witty quips: “I’m so old, my Bible is autographed.” This facetious nod to aging is precisely what made Joan such a beloved figure.
Melissa Rivers, her daughter, took a moment to raise a toast to Currie, endearingly referring to him as “the son my mother never had.” With every word, Melissa echoed both the warmth and humor that Joan was known for. She reminisced about her mother’s notorious habit of pilfering from restaurants, illustrating a side of her personality that was relatable and amusing. “An unattended housekeeping cart was her holy grail,” Melissa quipped, inviting guests to share in a collective chuckle at the memory of Joan’s playful antics. The lighthearted atmosphere was further amplified when Melissa and Currie jokingly encouraged the audience to “take anything that’s not nailed down,” showing that the spirit of fun was very much alive, despite Joan’s absence.
The celebrations were spectacularly orchestrated by renowned event designer Preston Bailey, who transformed the River Club into an homage to the storied El Morocco, a hotspot from the 20th century. Guests were transported back in time by the signature blue and white zebra stripes that adorned the carpet and furniture, complemented by replicas of legendary palm trees and the club’s iconic ashtrays. Such thoughtful details illustrated both an eye for design and a deep appreciation for the memories that shaped Joan’s illustrious career and life. Bailey’s extravagant touches set the tone for the evening, encapsulating a nostalgic reverence for an era that Rivers thrived in.
A plethora of high-profile guests attended the event, each bringing with them a slice of glitzy New York charm. With names like Martha Stewart, Dorinda Medley, and Candace Bushnell mingling in the crowd, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and intrigue. Notable moments included cabaret legend Joey Arias, who performed in a striking Thierry Mugler creation that would have made Joan proud. The blend of laughter, gossip, and high fashion resonated throughout the room—an embodiment of what Joan Rivers stood for in her relentless drive to entertain and captivate.
The night was not without its quirks. George Wayne captured attention with his audacious white “pum pum shorts” that juxtaposed the formal attire of the rest of the attendees, highlighting the event’s playful energy. Surrounded by laughter, George enthusiastically shouted, “Butt cheeks!” capturing the playful spirit that Rivers instilled in those around her. Even Martha Stewart, adorned in her dazzling jewelry, joined the revelry, showcasing the interplay of high glamour and irreverent humor that characterized New York social gatherings and, much like Joan, embraced a blend of elegance and approachability.
As the evening drew to a close, guests departed with whimsical mementos of the night, including club-themed ashtrays that evoked the spirit of El Morocco. George Hamilton’s remark set the perfect tone, “I practically lived at the original El Morocco, but this is much more fun!” Capturing the essence of the event, his words reverberated with echoes of Joan Rivers’ legacy. This celebration not only honored a beloved publicist but also our collective memories of a woman who brought levity and laughter into the lives of countless individuals, proving that while Joan may no longer walk amongst us, her spirit remains resilient, illuminating the lives of those who dare to laugh.
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