More than 280 guests gathered in grand style for The Center’s 7th Annual Gala on Saturday, September 14th, celebrating with the theme “In Bloom.” Inspired by the charm and elegance of summer garden parties, this year’s event dazzled with vibrant florals and achieved a record-breaking fundraising total of $246,090! The gala is instrumental in supporting The Center’s vital operations and programs, including the CREATE youth arts education programs.
The evening’s Live Auction was once again expertly orchestrated by the auctioneer Greg Quiroga of Stellar Fundraising Auctions. The auction featured an array of thrilling prizes, including luxurious overseas trips, bouquet-making brunches, exclusive private events, and a selection of one-of-a-kind experiences ranging from unforgettable music events to gourmet culinary delights.
Adding to the excitement, this year’s raffle boasted fabulous prizes such as a guitar signed by the legendary Taj Mahal, a kayak from Mountain Recreation, and a rejuvenating Med Spa package from Vital Health.
Guests indulged in a delectable, catered feast by Antonio Ayestaran and danced the night away to the electrifying sounds of the band Pop Rocks, creating an evening filled with joy and celebration.
The Center of the Arts extends its heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff and Board of Directors whose tireless efforts made this spectacular event a resounding success. A special shoutout goes to this year’s Gala Chair, Olivia Pritchett, whose unwavering commitment and support of The Center and the arts in Nevada County have been truly inspiring.
A profound thank you is due to the 2024 Gala sponsors, including Stucki Jewelers, Lisa Swarthout, and Event Helper. Additional appreciation goes to Antonio Ayestarán, The Lee & Dunn Group, The Parsonage 1865, Grass Valley Courtyard Suites, New West Wine Co., Dignity Health, Smarter Broadband, Grass Valley Provisions, Elevation 2477′, MEC Builds Inc., YubaNet, KNCO, Sweat Nevada County, Colantuono Highsmith & Whatley, PC, Stellar Fundraising Auctions, and Bouchier Pritchett Family Medicine.
Executive Director Amber Jo Manuel reflected on the evening with enthusiasm, stating, “I’m overjoyed by the overwhelming support of our community. It’s incredible to see how this event has increased its revenue by an astonishing 177% over the past five years. We are incredibly fortunate to be part of a community that not only values the arts but understands their importance in our ongoing recovery and passionately believes in our mission.”
Since 2000, The Center for the Arts, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization, has grown into a leading presenter of music, dance, theater, comedy, literary and visual art, and family programming, offering more than 150 events per year from its location in downtown Grass Valley. The Center recently completed a major renovation of its multiuse, 21,000-square-foot facility in downtown Grass Valley, making it a premier performing arts destination. The venue includes the Main Stage, which accommodates up to 492 guests in configurable theater seats and up to 750 patrons for dance shows, and a 90-seat black box theater.