Galas Galore for Iron County Today
Galas Galore
By Sara Penny, CCAC Vice President
Getting dressed up and having a nice dinner is just the beginning of a successful Gala. Nearly every arts group has some kind of fundraising extravaganza that feels more like a family reunion than a stuffy ordeal. There is a lot of visiting and laughter as part of the festivities.
Why go to all the extra work? For a theater group the ticket goal is 50% of costs according to Richard Bugg at the recent RAP (Recreation, Arts and Parks) presentations. That means the leaders have to find that extra 50% to function with grants, sponsors, donations, and fundraising events. If you have to put together an event it should also be fun.
IMPAC recently had their first Gala and I expect it will be another annual event. Every table was decorated for a different musical. I was at the Guys and Dolls table which was appropriate since they are presenting this musical with the adult mentor cast opening July 11 and the student cast opening July 23. I love how the adults and students work together on these productions. More information at https://im-pac.com. There were several soaring vocal performances as part of the Gala's entertainment.
Another advantage of these community events is the networking. I find out about events that are new to me. I was seated next to Jenifer Terry and she is directing a student musical in Parowan. Once On This Island opens July 24 at the Aladdin Theater.
The Cedar City Children's Musical Theatre is another opportunity for youth up to age 5 to 19 to gain stage experience. In October they host a Halloween dinner theater. In December they host a Wizard Festival complete with a Dragon Alley shopping experience and Christmas feast. There are skits and audience games with dinner that make it a fun family evening. They are working on mini-musicals this summer with the large scale musical Seussical that opens August 21 at the Heritage Theatre. By large scale I mean 175 participants. The annual musical is a well oiled machine with lots of parental supervision.
When the Chamber of Commerce hosted their 75th Gala there was ballroom dancing with Gage and Sami Kevern. They have developed Cedar City Ballroom where they offer classes for teens and adults. It was also fun seeing them in the alumni dance for the SUU Ballroom Concert this spring.
The Southern Utah Museum of Art features a talented auctioneer as well as visual art and prelude music. This popular event was sold out this year so get tickets early next spring.
Learning to do Regency era dancing at the Jane Austen Festival added to the Ball. I was impressed with the gorgeous period clothing, elaborate
This is just a sampling of what is available. We hope you enjoy getting involved with our arts community.
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