Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey Invites Guests Into 'Theatre Factory' for 2016 Gala

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey 2016 Annual Gala invites guests "behind-the-scenes," into the Theatre's renovated "theatre factory" on Saturday, April 9, 2016 for an evening of festivities that includes an alluring array of unique silent auction items, delicious food and libations, a star-studded cabaret, and major recognition of Bank of America's exemplary support over the years. The Theatre will present its Mighty Quill Award to the Bank in honor of their decade long sponsorship of the company's popular Outdoor Stage. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 973-845-6732 or visit www.ShakespeareNJ.org.

Artistic Director Bonnie J. Monte said of the Mighty Quill Award, "This is an honor we bestow very selectively. We give out the Award only at times when an individual or organization has made such a significant and meaningful impact for our company that we want to honor their efforts on our behalf in a very special way. The list of past recipients is a prestigious one including Governor Thomas H. Kean, The Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, the CTW Foundation, and most recently, long-time Trustee Heath McLendon. Bank of America has remained one of the few corporate entities that have stood by the arts through thick and thin, and their decade-long sponsorship of our Outdoor Stage has helped us build it into one of the region's most popular summer events, attracting people of all ages and walks of life. For many families, the Outdoor Stage has become a yearly tradition, and we are deeply grateful to Bank of America for their outstanding support."

"The Shakespeare Theatre's Outdoor Stage continues to bring visitors together for inspiring performances at one of the biggest summer theatrical events in the region," said Bob Doherty, New Jersey president, Bank of America. "Supporting arts organizations like the Shakespeare Theatre not only enriches locals' cultural experiences but also helps build thriving communities in New Jersey."

The star-studded cabaret performance will include two-time Tony Nominee Vivian Reed, Robert Cuccioli (Spiderman: Turn Off The Dark on Broadway), Elena Ricardo (Mamma Mia! on Broadway), Jacqueline Antaramian (Doctor Zhivago on Broadway), and David Andrew Macdonald (Rocky on Broadway).

The Gala is the Shakespeare Theatre's largest annual fundraising event, and is now held in its unique and exciting support facility in Florham Park. The 50,000 square foot building is home to the Theatre's administrative, educational, artistic, and technical operations, and guests are treated to a glimpse of all the behind-the-scenes "magic" that occurs in the building on a daily basis. "There is nothing like it anywhere else, either as a workplace or as a gala venue..." said Ms. Monte, "people are blown away by the unusual and fascinating space we're creating for our artists and the public."

The event begins at 6:30 p.m. with a glittering black-tie reception including sumptuous passed hors d'oeuvres and gourmet food stations. Guests will dine, mingle, and explore the amazing spaces of the behind-the-scenes facility as well as bid on the spectacular silent auction offerings including one-of-a-kind theatrical opportunities, art, jewelry, fabulous wine packages, getaway trips, and much more. At 8:45 p.m., guests will enter the "Grand Ballroom" for more libations, dessert, coffee, the Mighty Quill Award, and the Theatre's annual cabaret performance, which as always, will feature company performers who are regulars of the Broadway and Shakespeare Theatre stages. Following the performance, guests who wish to remain can gather round the piano in the Theatre's rehearsal room, or continue to explore the many magical spaces spread throughout the building.

Gala tickets range from $295 to $1,000 per person. All proceeds from the Gala go toward supporting the artistic and education programs of the Theatre. A portion of each ticket is tax-deductible to the fullest extent provided by law. For more information or reservations, call 973-845-6732 or visit www.ShakespeareNJ.org.

The acclaimed Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey is an independent, professional theatre company located on the Drew University campus. The Outdoor Stage is located on the campus of the College of St. Elizabeth and the Theatre's support and education facility is in Florham Park.

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey's programs are made possible, in part, by funding from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as funds from the National Endowment for the Arts. Additional major support is received from The Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, F.M. Kirby Foundation, The Edward T. Cone Foundation, The Samuel H. Scripps Foundation, The Shubert Foundation, and CTW Foundation, as well as contributions from numerous corporations, foundations, government agencies and individuals.