[ARTISTOCATS]

"Charity All Arts Open Mic night @ The Funky Buddha Lounge"

by Photo/Video Journalist: Dawn Dubriel

My newlywed hubby and I had our very 1st date at The Funky Buddha Lounge a few years back, and it had been quite a while since we enjoyed Boca's best in entertainment. We finally attended Richy Lala's Weds. Charity All Arts Open Mic night. Shortly after arrival, I realized how much I missed being at the Buddha, and what a special spot it really is. The scarlet walls are adorned with a variety of colorful and original art, and the front window Mural was done by local artist and friend, Luana Steffan. There is quite an abundance of delights to be found: talented folk of all genre who play and perform live on stage, friendly faces, artists, and generous Host, Richy Lala. An array of local artists, performers, and cool kids congregate to the ambience and good vibes found in the hookah smoke filled Indian den which houses the finest in teas, microbrews, and kava.

I grabbed a blueberry beer and commenced to taking pics of the gorgeous art and beautiful people. After hearing some nice acoustic guitar, a comedian named Franchesca Ramsey took the stage. She was so hilarious that I video-taped her entire set (Dawn Dubriel on Vimeo). As the night progressed, the Buddha became so packed and could not comfortably fit every one which is why I was happy to learn that they're expanding to a new locale where they will brew even more micro-beers. All types of talent flooded the joint, one after the next on stage, acoustic guitar and song-singing out front. stentatious&ei=zGFBS7yVHMOWtgfvor2VCQ&sa=X&oi=glossary_definition&ct=title&ved=0CAcQkAE">Ostentatiously perverse comedian Matt Zigan set up his own video camera to use for audition material and after announcing the significance of this live performance, a heckler blurted some dribble and Matt quickly shut him down, then continued his doorman duties for charity. Great times to be had at the Buddha.

All Arts Charity Night - Funky Buddha Lounge