Photo Credit: G. Paras Photography

Saturday night, Atlanta’s finest came out in support of the National Black Arts Festival for their Annual Gala: “A Salute To The Silver Screen” at the Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead. A staple among NABF events, this year’s Black Tie Gala honored achievements of people of African descent working in the film industry, and featured a silent auction, dining, and entertainment, to raise funds for NABF programs throughout the year. Powerful influencers and special invited guests donned their finest black and white attire for a night of beauty, charitable contributions, fellowship and celebration.

photo credit: G. Paras Photography

Chandeliered hallways and the main dining ballroom were ornately decorated to resemble an unforgettable night in Hollywood complete with large stills of Black starlets including Lena Horne, Josephine Baker, Diane Carol and Ertha Kitt. In a separate hall across from the ballroom were the auction table arrangements for guest bidding. Items ranging from exclusive estate jewelry pieces, personal training sessions, original artwork, and trips across the globe were available. During the gala, celebrity host Roger Bobb, television and film producer, served as MC and Jasmine Guy produced/ choreographed “Musical Medley” for the entertainment segment. A special tribute to Atlanta Film Production companies Rainforest Films and Turner Classic Movies was given honoring their continued contributions to entertainment.

photo credit: G. Paras Photography

Other celebrities in attendance included Judge Glenda Hatchett, Congressman John Lewis, actress Victoria Rowell, Jasmine Guy, Jovita Moore, Will “Power” Packer (producer), and Anna Maria Horsford (Thelma, “Amen”). The honorable Judge Hatchett, clad in a gorgeous, white jacket and gown said, “This event is full of such great energy and one of my favorites of the NBAF week! I just love seeing old friends and making new ones.” The “Salute To The Silver Screen” Gala was clearly an evening to remember, culminating the 23 years of hard work and artistic contributions of the NABF board.

Be sure to subscribe to our magazine for additonal celebrity pictures! Coverage provided by freelance journalist Meagan Ford at Vitamin D.