On a smoky, soggy night with a Broadway feel, it was The Toll Brothers who stole the show.
The home builder put on a Realtor open house in its Coastal Oaks at Nocatee development recently to show off seven new model homes. Hustling valet attendents whisked away cars from the entrance where people entered the first home, the “box office,” for check-in, a playbill and a martini.
The “playbill” detailed each home’s amenities and alluded to the theme of each model for the event.
Booming songs from famous Broadway productions filled the air as Realtors and visitors made their way from house to house and were greeted by a variety of hosts.
From a famously masked phantom to a prowling feline to a glamorously dressed woman ready for a cabaret, the homes had professional actors, actresses and ushers welcome each guest, in-character, to the model.
“It’s really fun staying in-character the whole time and sneaking around,” said Jessica Palombo, an actress outfitted in a black cat outfit and furry mask, who welcomed guests to the San Tropez Heritage model in “Cats” fashion.
Scott Broughton, dressed as the masked villain of the “Phantom of the Opera,” agreed.
“I had a real good time,” said Broughton, who welcomed people to The Rinaldi Versailles model. “One of my favorite things is being around and interacting with the people.”
Guests were offered various drinks and hors d’oeuvres along the way while viewing each model with the final model, the Dominique Mediterranean, serving as a “wrap party.”
There wasn’t a disappointed face in the crowd of over 450, but people had differing opinions on the best aspect of the night.
“The drinks and food,” said Russ Ervin with a laugh, then added. “They’ve done a fantastic job with the decorating.”
For some Realtors, though, it was more of a learning process and an introduction to Nocatee, as well as enjoying the festivities.
“For me, it’s been about getting to know it all better and educating myself,” said Gracie Abney of Watson. “They’ve (the models) all been wonderful and I’ve learned a lot.”