Dallas Theater Center’s 40th Annual Gala Raises $400,000

The Dallas Theater Center’s 40th annual CENTERSTAGE gala and fundraiser fundraised $400,000 from the “CENTERSTAGE 40: A Brand New Day,” themed event.  

The event chaired by Hamilton A. Sneed with honorary chairs T.D. and Serita Jakes and Helen and Frank Risch, commemorated the theater’s 65 years of artistic contributions and its Tony Award-winning legacy.

“Tonight is all about celebrating not only the work that DTC does on the stage but also the work that DTC does off the stage and in our community,” Sneed said.

“I want to challenge you tonight to think about the next generation of young people and the next 65-plus years of the theater. We don’t get to 40 Centerstage nights or 65 years of theater without the support of friends like each of you.”

The gala brought together nearly 260 guests, including Linda and Bill Custard, Anita Hawkins, Kimberly Alexander, Chuck Steelman, Andy Smith and Paul von Wupperfeld, Diane and Hal Brierley, and Kristen and Reed Gibbons.

The evening was designed to mirror the elegance and ambiance of Broadway’s iconic Supper Club, 54 Below, featuring themed cocktails, live entertainment, and exclusive auction experiences.

Guests were welcomed with Lallier Champagne and treated to live performances by Diane and Hal Brierley Resident Acting Company members Tiffany Solano and Zachary J. Willis.

The pre-dinner cocktail reception also featured a pop-up gallery showcasing works by participants in DTC’s Public Works and historical highlights from Project Discovery.

Sneed opened the formal proceedings with a warm welcome and expressions of gratitude, notably recognizing the original 1984 Centerstage Chairs Linda Custard, Bess Enloe, and Jane Dune.

But the highlight of the evening was a dazzling performance by the legendary Broadway star André De Shields.

Guests enjoyed a VIP meet-and-greet with De Shields, adding a personal touch to the night.

Attendees were also treated to themed cocktails, including “The Ruby,” featuring Divertido Tequila, and selections from The Macallan, including their limited edition “Harmony Collection.”

Proceeds from the gala will support Dallas Theater Center’s stage productions, educational initiatives, and community outreach programs.

The Dallas Theater Center’s CENTERSTAGE gala once again highlighted the importance of art in the community, providing a memorable night of celebration, performance, and philanthropy.

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