Royalty landed in Midtown during the holidays. Ball gowns, Tiaras, Diamonds, Tails and Dancing ensued. At the Royal Savoy Ball.

On Saturday night December 7th, more than 300 guests gathered in New York City for a resplendent evening presented by the American Foundation of Savoy Orders.

It is often said that chivalry is dead. But, for over 30 years, the Foundation of Savoy Orders has sought to strengthen the chivalric spirit in today’s world through a dynamic commitment to humanitarian ideals. With philanthropy focused on hospitals and relief agencies, social assistance, and cultural and educational programs, grants from the Foundation build on the traditions of the Savoy Order of Saints Maurice and Lazarus, which dates all the way back to 1572 and is still active.

The lavish ball took place under the patronage and presence of His Royal Highness Prince Emanuele Filiberto di Savoia, who holds the titles of Duke of Savoy, Prince of Piedmont, and Prince of Venice. HRH Prince Dmitri of Yugoslavia chaired the celebratory evening which was held to honor Jacqueline Weld Drake and benefit the Casita Maria Center for Arts and Education Young Artists Apprenticeship Program. Casita Maria was founded in New York in 1934 to counter the disparity and isolation of the newly arriving Spanish-speaking community. Throughout the night, music by Alex Donner and his orchestra added the perfect notes of harmony and exuberance. Guests danced till the midnight hour.

Prince Dimitri noted that his grandfather, Umberto, King of Italy, had brought in about 40 war-disabled orphans to Quirinal Castle, and they lived with the family there until the end of the war. The example inspired Dimitri’s involvement in a lifetime of philanthropic work helping under-privileged children.

Photos credits: Patrick McMullen/Patrick McMullen via Getty Images, Annie Watt, and David Duprie/AnnieWatt.com

For more information please visit:
www.savoyfoundation-usa.org