Event Photos: Asia After Dark 2009 @FreerSackler

A long line as excited guests wait to enter the second Asia After Dark event for 2009. With Pink Link Project's text messaging scavenger hunt, to DJs Yellow Fever, to dance crew Boogie Bots--it was a good one.

The official Asia After Dark poster reads: "Art, Drink, and Be Happy!"

The event is on track with social media goodness. Become a fan of Freer and Sackler's Facebook page. As a thank you, you take a fortune teller fish with you. Next in the halls of the museum, not included in this photo set, are food samples provided by Bangkok Joe's, Mie N Yu and Asia Nine.

The Freer courtyard looks great! The weather for this event couldn't have been any better.

Fun to see John Miyahara, a college mentor and friend of mine. John taught me about service, which is his calling (to our nation and to our local community--see this article about John). One cool thing I learned from John: the idea of "paying it forward."

There were many awesome peacock dresses. Guests were enjoying their theme-inspired attire.

Two guests hold on to Philippa Hughes's scavenger hunt flyers. Philippa helps visitors strike up conversations. Her game reads: "Good luck, have fun, meet someone new, and learn some Freer history!"

The event organizers look stunning, of course.

John Miyahara with some of his friends.

Yellow Fever DJs entertain the crowd.

Art lovers pose with their peacock colors and style.

This sweet person approached us as she notices my small awesome camera. This is my first event shooting with the LX3 and SB-600. For you photo nerds: the flash unit only works in manual mode--worth the little extra bulk for that extra brush of light on subjects. (To the lady in this picture: send me an email and good luck finding a deal in NYC!).

The light in the courtyard is beautiful as the sun goes down. With good cocktails and catered bites flowing around the party, you can see people are having a good time.

Dawn looks beautiful!

I run into Nadia and friends! Another Dickinsonian at the event, Stacy (who works for the museum), is inside one of the galleries.

Boogie Bots, contestants from MTV's America's Best Dance Crew, perform tonight

Jamie, fashion + style editor for Greg's List DC (left) with friend Janice. Good to meet you both!

Being in a museum after hours reminds me of my time at the Whitney--send me a message if you catch this, YI Alumns!

My favorite group at the event. We bond instantly, dance in place a little, then head "Peacock Room."

Before entering, we catch a glimpse of special guest Charles Lang Freer, founder. Intimidated by his presence, we do not approach.

As you can see, the collection is extravagant and opulent. Small details are decorated with care and precision. The room enthralls you and doesn't let go.

We are led on a tour of the "Peacock Room." Good history.

So, yes, the hosts at the Freer and Sackler give us a real art treat with the "Peacock Room." Read more about the room and exhibition.

Allowed to see the gallery rooms after hours, we look around with the crowd. It's fun. You should do it if you haven't already. Bring a date or friends and enjoy a good evening of drinks and art--exactly the kind of combination that makes the idea not feel like a class field trip.