Pittsburgh’s chocolatiers stood over their delectable displays as a conductor would his orchestra, readying themselves for the chocolate cacophony that was awaiting the sold out crowd at the Benedum. Facilitated by Acrobatique Creative, The Chocolate Bar was a night of endless enchantment. Commencing with Iron City aerialist Kelsey Keller soaring over our guests with (what else but) a chocolate inspired cocktail serving! In addition “The Art of Chocolate” series entranced the crowd as onlookers were subjected to the soothing sounds from a local DJ. Sweets met style as a myriad of models donned ‘Haute Chocolate’, inspired fashions and hair wrappings curated and styled by local Pittsburgh artists. Chocolate enthusiasts flocked from every corner of the globe to show off their hazel masterpieces. Some were from right here at home, local artist Amanda Wright from A519 Chocolates and International Chocolatier. Others opted to take a trip across the pond, artisan and unabashed chocolatier Corentin Vignal trekked from France to sculpt the 16th Street Bridge. You guessed it…it was made out of…chocolate! The bridge served to illustrate the unity of our city with Paris in lue of the recent tragedies. Stunning women clad in chocolate inspired wear distributed Sarris Chocolates’ twists to over 700 guests. All who attended received a one-year membership to the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and a complimentary cocktail! Acrobatique Creative designed, marketed, and produced the event in which guests savored treats from featured chocolatiers. Coming out of our own backyard Amanda Wright from A519 Chocolates served dark chocolate truffles from Cioppino, mole chicken wings from Braddock’s Pittsburgh Brasserie, and chocolate s’mores from Meat & Potatoes. Vallozzi’s provided chocolate ravioli with white chocolate ganache, vanilla, and pomegranate. Tom Mosser performed a live painting session, creating the Cultural Trust logo with Hershey’s Syrup-infused paint.

“The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust was thrilled to be able to highlight the magnificent Benedum Center through The Chocolate Bar event,” says Heather Masterson, Director of Individual Giving for the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. “It was wonderful to see hundreds enjoying live music, art, and chocolate creations galore from local restaurants, all in support of the Cultural Trust.”