A Tennessee Waltz Celebrates 30 Years

It was a clear evening as guests ascended the stairs of the State Capitol for A Tennessee Waltz. Co-chairmen Nicole and Bo Watson warmly greeted supporters of the Tennessee State Museum just inside the entrance of the historic building. The event — celebrating its 30th anniversary — supports the museum and its mission: “to procure, preserve, exhibit and interpret objects which relate to the social, political, economic and cultural history of Tennessee and Tennesseans, and to provide access to educational and cultural programs and exhibitions for the people of the state.” The museum has engaged with schoolchildren in K-12 programs in every county and has welcomed over 200,000 visitors this year alone, thanks to the generosity of donors. To show appreciation for these patrons, A Tennessee Waltz was created, allowing like-minded friends to have a little fun.

As guests admired the architectural beauty of the Tennessee State Capitol, they chatted with friends and perused silent auction items. The evening was perfect for sipping cocktails on the terrace as servers passed hors d’oeuvres on silver trays. Following the reception, guests returned downstairs for a seated dinner. Just before dinner was served, Ming Wang entertained the crowd by playing “Tennessee Waltz” on the erhu — a Chinese two-stringed bowed musical instrument. Diners enjoyed the decadent meal, featuring a dual entrée of salmon and beef filet.

Organizers of the event arrange post-dinner musical entertainment each year, and this year, the musical guest was beloved entertainer Ray Stevens. After dinner, guests moved upstairs to see the stage. The excitement in the room was electric as the multigenerational crowd eagerly anticipated the arrival of the special guest. They did not have to wait long before the Grammy Award–winning songwriter took the stage; his opening act of “Mississippi Squirrel Revival” had patrons dancing in the hall as they sang along to the popular tune. He kept the crowd delighted the entire evening, and — as guests departed — they were treated to a beautiful holiday ornament as a keepsake for this special evening.