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StarStruck Gala In Review
Written By: Donna Rhodes | Issue: 2018/08 - August
Scores of theater devotees made the scene Sunday evening, July 1, at the Highlands Playhouse StarStruck Gala. The Board of Directors, HP management, and Playhouse performers set the stage for one of the most entertaining and profitable fundraisers in the 80-year history of the theater. The Highlands Country Club played host to more than 150 loyal supporters who mixed and mingled as actors from Guys and Dolls performed songs from the show. When theatergoers feel the electricity of opening night their focus is understandably on the moment. But for every surge of energy they experience, there is a tremendous amount of time, material, salary, and maintenance that goes into generating that excitement. Managing Director Lance Matzke says, “Only half of our annual budget is covered by ticket sales. For the rest, we rely on the generosity of our donors and Patrons. They appreciate the quality of entertainment what we provide and I am proud to consider them friends of the Playhouse.”
This year’s sensational StarStruck Gala featured a multi-course, seated banquet with drinks and libations. Live numbers from summer smash hits Guys and Dolls and Damn Yankees filled the room with song. One of many highlights of the evening was a live auction, jam-packed with top-drawer bid items—and called by the legendary auctioneer Al Scudder. Everything from a VIP trip and tickets for two to Hamilton on Broadway to entry at next year’s Masters Golf Tourney in Augusta to a trip for two to Sundance Film Festival in Utah. It was an evening fit for royalty and worthy of a standing ovation. All proceeds from the event will go to support the Highlands Playhouse. As a nonprofit and 501 (C)(3) organization, the Playhouse relies on the generous support of the community so they can provide live, professional summer theatre and year-round cinematic entertainment for residents and visitors alike. For more information visit: www.highlandsplayhouse.org.
