Las Vegas got an extra dose of glitz and glam when students from the nationwide network of Paul Mitchell Schools arrived for their 27th annual Caper event. Held February 20-22 at Caesars Palace, the hands-on educational extravaganza lured 2,500 students or "future professionals" who earned the trip by selling specially packaged Paul Mitchell products. About 200 staff members joined in. The Caper program featured surprise appearances by some shining stars.
On the first day of education, motivation, inspiration, and fashion, Paul Mitchell Co-owners John Paul DeJoria and Angus Mitchell joined Global Artistic Director Robert Cromeans and Paul Mitchell Schools Dean and Co-founder Winn Claybaugh for a warm welcome followed by fashion presentations from top Paul Mitchell artists, educators, artistic directors, students, and staff. Under the direction of school owner and Advanced Academy team member George Morales, the future professional Design Team spearheaded the hair, makeup, modeling, and dancing. The "pros" then took over for cutting, color, and style segments, led by show coordinator Brennan Claybaugh, Director of Education for Paul Mitchell Schools and Advanced Academy.
Surprise guest Robin Leach made a special appearance to announce that the mayor of Las Vegas had proclaimed February 21 "Paul Mitchell Day." Then Magic Johnson and Marie Osmond thanked Paul Mitchell Schools for including the Magic Johnson Foundation and Children's Miracle Network Hospitals (co-founded by the Osmonds) in this year's annual FUNraising Campaign, which has donated more than $6 million to charity. Tabatha Coffey also took center stage amid thunderous applause and shared a powerful message about her lifelong passion for the industry.
Industry icon Robert Lobetta wowed the audience with his innovative styles and powerful message about intuition and following your dreams. "Don't let the noise of others drown out your inner voice," he encouraged. Comedian Kathy Buckley ended the day with a message of courage and hope. Born deaf, but misdiagnosed as mentally retarded, Kathy spoke about the "No Limits" theater program for deaf children-one of the organizations supported in this year's FUNraising campaign. Kathy also showed a clip from Glee, featuring a deaf choir singing in sign language. She explained that the young actor featured was the reason "No Limits" was founded. The star of the clip, John Autry, then debuted on stage.
A traditional Paul Mitchell White Party was held at the end of Day 1 while the second day featured hands-on classroom rotations and a dynamic closing show. The grand finale featured the show teams from A Robert Cromeans Salon, Kelly Cardenas Salons, Lunatic Fringe, and Angus Mitchell's Beverly Hills Salon, and a show-stopping surprise: the singing debut of Angus Mitchell.
From left: Robin Leach with Co-owner and Artistic Director of Education of John Paul Mitchell Systems & owner of the Angus Mitchell Salon, Beverly Hills; Angus Mitchell declaring February 21 "Paul Mitchell Day" in Las Vegas. PHOTO CREDIT: Scott Harrison |
From left: Angus Mitchell and Bravo TV reality star Tabatha Coffey of Tabatha's Salon Takeover. |