In Solano County, charitable causes are always fashionable.

The Vallejo Symphony Orchestra is partnering with Christina S Fashion Destination in Benicia and Williamson & Company in Napa to host its first-ever fashion show and fundraiser at the Empress Theatre. The event will feature local figures modeling clothing from the two stores in a manner not unlike the Benicia Community Action Council’s annual fashion show.

“The symphony likes that format, so we’re replicating it,” Christina S owner Christina Strawbridge said.

The theme this year is “The Beat Goes On,” a tribute to Cher. Songs by the musical icon will be played as members of the community move down the catwalk in the stores’ most stylish attires. Many of the models are Vallejo figures, such as Councilmember Rozanna Verder-Aliga; Tom Bartee, an assistant to Sen. Bill Dodd; and Ramona Sampayan, the wife of Vallejo Mayor Bob Sampayan. Benicia models will include Deputy City Clerk Kate Gibbs and Steve Gizzi, a practicing attorney and candidate for Solano County judge. Also present at the event will be Richard Hallmarq, a fashion designer and contestant who was a contestant on the 11th season of “Project Runway.” Hallmarq’s collection is sold at Christina S, and he has made appearances at the store’s annual Benicia Fashion Runway.

The fashion show will be preceded by a no-host bar and live music by the Joyce Lee Trio and desserts by Stephanie Oelsligle. Following the fashion show are a silent auction and raffle featuring such prizes as a graphic design package and Champagne from the Domaine Chandon winery in Yountville. All proceeds will benefit the Vallejo Symphony Orchestra.

Strawbridge is happy to benefit such a cause and is excited to do a show at the Empress Theatre.

“They’ve done a fantastic job with their revitalization,” she said.

Strawbridge believes the event will be a great way to raise awareness of the VSO and Empress as well as bring the community together.

“It’s kind of a fun way to raise money and awareness,” she said. “It’s just another avenue for us to bring people together.”

“The Beat Goes On” will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 18 at the Empress, located at 330 Virginia St. In Vallejo. Tickets range from $40 to $70. For more information, go to VallejoSymphony.org or call Suzie Peterson at (707) 290-6762.

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