Peterborough Players Announce 28th Annual Gala and Auction

Everybody has a part to play. And the Peterborough Players will give the community a chance to step into the spotlight and make a difference at their 28th Annual Auction & Gala to be held on Saturday, October 29 starting at 6:00 PM. A major event in the Players year, the auction is not only a vital fundraiser for the professional theatre company nestled just outside of downtown Peterborough, it also serves as an opportunity to gather together and share stories with ardent supporters of the theatre on Hadley Road. "Ticket sales cover less than 50% of the cost of running the Players," says Managing Director Keith Stevens. "The auction gives us a chance to raise funds to support our mission, balance the budget, and to get together and celebrate our recently completed summer season. Without the auction, we would not be able to do what we do. We are truly indebted to all those that give so generously to our theatre."

This year's events will feature silent and live auctions of over 100 items, an art wall featuring the works of local artists, entertainment, a bounty of hors d'oeuvres and desserts provided by Sunflowers Restaurant & Catering and a full open bar featuring a specially made signature cocktail provided by Barrow's Intense.

"It is such a fun time!" says Auction Chair Linda Caracappa. "In addition to overseeing the acquisition of more than 100 items for the auction, one of the goals of the dedicated auction committee is to put together an event that guests will really enjoy. The theatre is such a vibrant place and I think that energy coupled with the terrific items we have assembled will make for an unforgettable evening."

Professional charity auctioneer Mark Fodero, will once again oversee all auction activities and conduct the live bidding process. Mr. Fodero is well known throughout New England for his successful benefit auctions and has been the auctioneer for many profitable fundraising events including the Currier Museum of Art, RiverWoods Gala, and the Southeast Land Trust.

This year's live auction portion of the event will include a wide array of items and features a line-up of new items that include a $500 Personal Shopping Experience at Miranda's on Main in Peterborough, "Celebrity" Bartender Lessons with Dinner for up to 6 at the Hancock Inn, Private Yacht Cruise for 2 with lunch at Essex Corinthian Yacht Club, CT including 2 night stay at Copper Beach Inn with dinner, Bakers Station Baking Class for up to 5 people followed by lunch and your creation at Waterhouse Restaurant, Private cooking lessons for 10-12 people at Pearl Restaurant & Oyster Bar, French Dinner for 8 at the home of Taylor and Cathie Sage, 2-night stay at the Vinoy Renaissance Resort & Golf Club in St. Petersburg, FL, 4 Night Stay at Porto Elounda Golf & Spa in Crete, Greece, and a 2 Night Weekend Stay at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco in Washington, DC.

Tickets to the auction are on sale now and can be purchased by calling the Players Box Office at 603-924-7585. Tickets are $90 until October 14 when the prices rises to $115. In additional to single tickets, there are limited tables of six and eight available so guests have the chance to create a table of friends or take the opportunity to make new ones. The event is sponsored by Sequoya Technologies Group LLC and (in part) by Barrow's Intense Ginger Liqueur. This event does sell out, so all those interested are encouraged to purchase now.

"Since I arrived at the Players--over 20 years ago now, I have been consistently moved by the generous support the theater receives from the community. The Monadnock region, with its wealth of culture and art, and breathtakingly beautiful, natural setting is indeed remarkable. It means so much to all the artists who work at the Players to be part of this vibrant and engaged community." says Artistic Director Gus Kaikkonen. "The auction is a singular event. I love it! It's not just a terrific party each year, it's a celebration of the Players and it's 83 year history, and a chance for us to give thanks in person. We had a splendid summer season, and the climax--in terms of providing a pleasurable evening at the theater is the auction--(I bow down to the committee!). Each season it's one of our best productions."

Located at 55 Hadley Road in Peterborough, The Peterborough Players is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization and has been providing professional theatre to audiences since 1933. It has been recognized as one of the most important regional theatres in North America with The Wall Street Journal calling them "American summer repertory theater at its most accomplished." More information about the organization can be found at www.peterboroughplayers.org.