Joan Rivers, an indelible figure in the world of comedy, continues to evoke laughter long after her passing. Recently, she was commemorated during a vibrant celebration marking the 60th birthday of her longtime publicist, Scott Currie, at the River Club in New York City. The event, a fitting homage to the late comedic legend, saw her humor immortalized with a cheeky quote on the menu: “I’m so old, my Bible is autographed.” This clever nod to Joan’s humor set the tone for the night, underlining her lasting impact on both comedy and the social scene.
Joan’s daughter, Melissa Rivers, 56, paid a heartfelt tribute to Currie, describing him as “the son my mother never had.” Her warm words were coupled with nostalgia as she shared anecdotes about her mother’s amusing habit of “shopping” from unattended service carts at hotels and restaurants. Melissa’s humor shone through as she quipped about her mother’s penchant for mischief: “An unattended housekeeping cart was her holy grail.” With such stories, the atmosphere buzzed with joy, reflecting both the spirit of Joan and the playful relationship she had with those closest to her.
Scott Currie pulled out all the stops for his birthday celebration, hiring renowned event designer Preston Bailey to recreate the glamour of El Morocco, a legendary hotspot from the 20th century. Guests were transported back in time with an environment that echoed the elegance and eccentricity of the original club, featuring the signature blue and white zebra patterns adorning everything from chairs to carpets. The artistic touches included facsimiles of El Morocco’s iconic palm trees and the quirky ashtrays that defined its allure. Bailey’s remarkable ability to conjure nostalgia through decor added depth and significance to the evening, enhancing the experience for guests.
Setting the stage for a glamorous affair, the star-studded guest list reflected Currie’s extensive connections within the entertainment industry. Figures such as Martha Stewart, Dorinda Medley, and several prominent names in fashion and entertainment gathered to revel in a night of nostalgia and humor, thereby celebrating two legacies: Joan Rivers’ comedic genius and Scott Currie’s illustrious career as a publicist.
The evening offered a delightful blend of entertainment and surprise. A standout moment came when downtown cabaret artist Joey Arias performed two soulful songs by Billie Holiday, clad in an eye-catching Thierry Mugler gown. The event exuded vibrant energy, with guests dressed to the nines—a stark contrast to George Wayne, who humorously disregarded the black-tie dress code in favor of “pum pum shorts,” exclaiming “Butt cheeks!” as he punctuated the celebratory atmosphere.
Martha Stewart, radiating elegance adorned with sparkling jewels, was a prominent figure amongst the largely gay crowd. Amidst the jubilant chatter, she shared amusing anecdotes and reflections on past New York nightlife experiences, further embedding the night in a context rich with New York’s vibrant social fabric. Some, like Susan Magrino, reminisced about their shared history in the bustling nightlife of the 1980s, evoking a strong sense of nostalgia that intertwined seamlessly with the intention to celebrate Rivers.
The night reached a crescendo with performances from the Rockettes, an extensive cake showcase themed around the Village People’s “In the Navy,” and dazzling indoor fireworks that lit up the club like the comedy icon’s enduring legacy. George Hamilton, with his characteristic wit, compared the evening’s delights to his fond memories of the original El Morocco, contributing to a narrative steeped in celebration and joy reminiscent of Rivers’ vibrant spirit.
As the evening drew to a close, guests departed with unique mementos—a nod to Joan’s eternal charm. The celebration, characterized by laughter, outstanding performances, and shared memories, perfectly encapsulated the essence of Joan Rivers—an unforgettable spirit whose humor and legacy continue to light up our lives even in her absence.
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