The Old Globe Gala an EVENING OF ILLUSIONS

The Old Globe 2017 Gala Evening of Illusions was on Saturday, September 23rd at The Old Globe Campus in Balboa Park. More than just party, this event was held to support the theatre's artistic and arts engagements programs.

Attendees at the opening reception enjoyed watching aerialists performing daring feats of gymnastics on silks while looking over auction items to bid upon (including a costume from their recent production of ROBIN HOOD!, dinner on stage of The Globe Theatre and much more).

After the reception the attendees moved in the theatre for a few words from Barry Edelstein, the Artistic Director of The Old Globe. Edelstein also took this moment to introduce incoming Managing Director Tim Shields to the audience. Shields served as McCarter Theatre Center's Managing Director from 2009 to 2017 and will be starting at the Globe in October.

Edelstein also expanded upon some of the many programs that this gala supports. As a not-for-profit institution, The Old Globe relies on donors as ticket sales only cover a portion of expenses associated with running the theatre. The funds generated in this evening, and at Gala's prior, help the Globe support the arts engagement programs which strive to make the arts accessible to diverse, multi-generational audiences. Some of the people this programs support are:

• 2500 people to see the Globe For all tour throughout San Diego County. This program brings a free professional production to audiences who do not have regular access to the performing arts. In the past they have performed in military bases, homeless shelters, centers for the elderly, correctional facilities, recreation centers, libraries, and other community venues for more than 4,800 audience members, for whom many this is their first opportunity to experience theatre.
• 500 people to see the sensory friendly version of THE GRINCH, so families with members who on the autism spectrum, or other special needs may appreciate theatre and a holiday show together.

Then there was a cabaret performance by the Tony award winning actress Jane Krakowski. Star of the Broadway musicals SHE LOVES ME and NINE and the hit television series "30 Rock," "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt," and "Ally McBeal," Krakowski performed and chatted with the audience while accompanied by her musical director Michael "Koz" Kosarin and her four-piece band. A surprise appearance by current BENNY & JOON star, and Tony award nominee Bryce Pinkham helped cap off the performances.

The glamorous annual event was co-chaired by Karen Cohn, Nina Doede, and Sheryl White; with Headline Sponsor and Honorary Chair Audrey S. Geisel/Dr. Seuss Fund at The San Diego Foundation. Lead Underwriters Darlene Marcos Shiley and Sheryl and Harvey White; Erna Finci Viterbi Artistic Director Barry Edelstein; San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer; Senator Toni Atkins were also in attendance.

Photo Credit: E.H. Reiter

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