Meltdown fun warms up the night in Arlington Heights

Officials with the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre in Arlington Heights timed it just right.

On the third night of below zero temperatures and double-digit wind chill, they hosted their annual "Metropolis Meltdown" for patrons to warm up from the cold, and shake cabin fever.

The event certainly lived up to its name.

It took place in the theatre's second floor ballroom, where patrons took the chill off during an opening wine and cheese tasting. Guests had the chance to sample gourmet pairings, and learn about different varieties from the staff members of Vintages -A Fine Wine Merchant, in Arlington Heights.

In fact, Metropolis officials have dubbed this year's meltdown, "California Dreamin," in part to reflect the featured Hahn Estates wines, which are located in the foothills of the Santa Lucia Highlands, along California's Monterey Coast.

Big favorites from the evening, says Vintages proprietor Robert Owings, was the SHL chardonnay, with its big, buttery flavor; as well as all three of the Hahn Estates red wines, including its merlot, cabernet and syrah.

"We work with the wine makers to come up with wines of high quality and value," Owings says.

Throw in the gourmet cheeses from around the world, including a brie and gournay, both from France, a mahon cheese from Spain and some Maytag blue from Iowa, and they hit the spot.

Luckily for patrons, the open dancing took over the second portion of the night. Dance numbers ran the gamut, from pop tunes to disco, and guests filled the floor, looking to trip the light fantastic.

During a break in the action, Metropolis officials announced the result of their split-the-pot raffle. Del Bloehm of Inverness came up the winner, though he opted to donate his portion back to the Metropolis.

All proceeds benefited the Metropolis' School of the Performing Arts, as well as its theater offerings.