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Performing Arts Series to host 27th Annual Wine Tasting

On Saturday, Millett Hall will transform into an upscale vineyard worthy of the finest sommeliers.

The 27th Annual Performing Arts Wine Tasting will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. on Feb. 18. All profits from the event, which is sponsored by Kona Bistro, will go toward the efforts of the Performing Arts Series.

In past years, the event has been attended by about 300 people, with the same expectation for this year. The event is open to all community members and students aged 21 and over.

"We want to cast a wide net and invite members of the community who are involved in the arts, people who enjoy wine and students from the university, as well," said Ellie Witter, assistant director of the Performing Arts Series.

The event will feature a program of over 200 wines and craft beers for attendees to sample. There will also be a silent auction taking place. In the past, items up for auction have included meals at Oxford restaurants such as Patterson's and Paesano's, concert tickets and travel accommodations to vacation spots such as New York City and Sanibel Island, Fla.

"We're excited that we've been able to do this for so many years," said Patti Liberatore, director of the Performing Arts Series. "We invest these efforts into the community, and it gives us the ability to give back to the artists who come to Miami, as well as the faculty and students at Miami."

Jack Keegan, the instructor of the popular wine tasting class in the biology department, has been involved with the event since its beginnings.

"This is a great event for students and faculty to be able to attend," said Keegan.

"They are the ones who are most able to see where the money goes and allow us to continue to bring great performers to the university."

While reservations to attend the wine tasting can be made in advance, guests are also welcome to purchase tickets at the door. Students must bring a photo ID. The cost for general admission is $74, and a reservation for a table for four is $380. Individual pour tickets are $5 each, or six for $25 and 15 for $60.

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