Thank you for making theater matter!

One Great Party Grosses More Than $537K

San Francisco’s elegant Four Seasons Hotel, its foyer transformed into a pop-art kaleidoscope of hot pink, yellow, and black, provided the dramatic setting for One Great Party on Saturday, March 17, 2012.

“What an incredible evening!” commented Managing Director Susie Falk. “This truly inspiring outpouring of support demonstrates that our community values Cal Shakes’ contributions to making theater matter through its work onstage, in communities, and especially through its arts education efforts. I am especially moved and inspired to be able to continue to ensure that the massive budget cuts in our state do not deprive our youth from experiencing and making art in their lives, thanks to the support of One Great Party attendees.”

Following a lively silent-auction cocktail hour with spirits courtesy of Stockholm Krystal Vodka, the 370+ party-goers joined Cal Shakes Artistic Director Jonathan Moscone and Managing Director Susie Falk in the Warhol- inspired ballroom to dine on Orange-Honey Greek Yogurt Salad with Beets, Pan-Seared Halibut, Carnival Cauliflower Cous Cous, and Passion Fruit Two Ways. Wines were generously provided by Hafner Winery, Martin Ray Winery, Mietz Cellars, Mumm Napa, Nottingham Cellars, Rock Wall Wine Company, and Satyr’s Pond Winery.

Following the main course, Jonathan Moscone’s rousing speech was “interrupted” by the appearance on video of Andy Warhol (played by Cal Shakes Associate Artist Danny Scheie). Andy/Danny’s statement that “theater is dying,” led into a film countering his statement, featuring students, teachers, actors, and artists, all serving to prove that Cal Shakes works passionately and innovatively to make theater matter in the diverse communities of the Bay Area.

The evening’s emotional highlight came during the “Fund-a-Need” portion of the live auction, when Amy Cheney, Director of the Alameda County Juvenile Hall’s Write to Read program, spoke eloquently of the impact made by Cal Shakes Teaching Artists as they worked with incarcerated youth. Ms. Cheney’s forceful and moving account of lives transformed through the power of Shakespeare sent the guests’ bidder paddles high in the air; they responded with a roar and, in less than 10 minutes, raised a record-breaking $173,000 in pledges for Cal Shakes Artistic Learning programs.

During the live auction led by auctioneer extraordinaire Greg Quiroga, guests bid enthusiastically and generously on one-of-a-kind packages, including: trips to France, Italy, and Mexico; a behind-the-scenes tour of Pixar; an art filled evening at the home of Ann and Gordon Getty; and a visit with Cal Shakes’ conservatory alum Zendaya on the set of her hit Disney series, Shake It Up!;. Finally, guests packed the dance floor and boogied into the night to the sounds of DJ Dave Tutton.

The evening’s auctions, ticket sales, and donations raised more than $537,000 to support Cal Shakes’ work onstage, in classrooms and throughout communities. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all of the individuals and corporations who supported this event through their financial support, volunteer service, and contributions of auction item. We couldn’t have done it without you!

Interested in getting involved in next year’s gala? Contact Beth Sandefur at bsandefur@calshakes.org to find out about opportunities to serve on the planning committee.