Maltz Jupiter Theatre's 'We've Got Elegance' Gala Raises $430,000

The Maltz Jupiter Theatre's ninth annual gala, "We've Got Elegance," raised nearly $430,000 for the not-for-profit Theatre.

More than 330 people attended the benefit, held at The Breakers Palm Beach. Inspired by the Theatre's upcoming production of the Tony Award®-winning musical Hello, Dolly! (March 13 – April1), the spectacular affair transported guests back to the glamour of the turn of the twentieth century, complete with magnificent floral and feather hat table centerpieces, guests in glittering gowns, splendid pink and purple lighting and more.

The exquisite evening included a performance of the song One Voice by children from the Theatre's Conservatory of Performing Arts, as well as cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and a silent auction in the Mediterranean Ballroom.

A highlight of the evening occurred when artistic director Andrew Kato called the room to attention and eight tuxedoed 'waiters' stormed the dance floor for the a take on the classic 'Waiters Gallop" scene from Hello, Dolly!, featuring a high-energy dance number complete with leaps, turns and pirouettes. The event also included exquisite video presentations honoring the gala's honorees: community philanthropists Susan and Ross Johnson and corporate partner PNC Bank.

"In true theatrical form, the evening truly encompassed the Theatre's mission of entertaining, educating and inspiring our community," said the Theatre's development director, Kathy Berman. "Many of our guests told me it was the best gala they've attended, and it gave everyone a chance to experience an exciting, joyous event for a great cause."

Guests dined on petite five peppercorn spiced filet mignon and beef short rib ravioli with red wine braised shallots, and for dessert, a Hello, Dolly!-themed ice cream sundae with gold dusted sail, candied almonds and berries with chocolate dipped macaroons. They took turns bidding on lavish vacation packages and more in the grand auction, and danced the night away to the music of the Powerhouse Band in the Venetian Ballroom.

"It was wonderful to see everyone enjoying an unforgettable evening, and we are incredibly grateful for the tremendous support from the community," Berman said. "As the largest regional theatre in South Florida, we could not continue to thrive without those that contribute to the Theatre's success."

Organized by a gala committee and led by co-chairs Roberta Golub and Marcia Cohn, the event's Grand Benefactors were Roberta and Harvey Golub, Bonnie Osher and John Osher. VIP sponsors included Joan and Allen Bildner, Mr. and Mrs. Richard J Katz, Jr., Jane F. Napier and Diane and James Perrella. Corporate sponsors included PNC Bank, Tiffany & Co., Braman BMW Jupiter, The Capital Grille, Saks Fifth Avenue and Wilmington Trust.