..Tom Douglas that is. Don’t know who Tom Douglas is?

I recently had the privilege of photographing the UW World Series Center Stage Gala, an annual fundraising event that is held to support the University of Washington’s Meany Hall World Series performances. Tom Douglas, a culinary icon and a winner of many awards including the James Beard award (numerous times) catered the event. To my surprise, Tom worked alongside his staff, scooping out the yukon gold mashers to go alongside his specialty chicken with a side of roasted brussel sprouts (among the other delicacies that were served that evening).

His team worked efficiently in the kitchen, preparing the dinner plates with artistry and fervor. The entire kitchen
ensemble, including the wait staff, operated like a choreographed troupe. They were entertaining to watch, which is ironic since that is what the UW World Series is all about (bringing the best of music, dance, and arts talent to the UW Meany Hall audiences).

Tom has 10 restaurants, a catering company, produces culinary products, has authored cookbooks, co-hosts a weekly radio show (and he has a new cooking school)… in other words, he’s a busy guy. And he still has time to show up at an event to work alongside his crew, scooping out those mashers. Pretty impressive time management skills.

Bonus (besides the opportunity to photograph the process): I got a taste of  some of what was served, and it was *wonderful*.