Berkeley Rep to Host SPEAKEASY AT THE RITZ This April

On Saturday, April 2, Berkeley Repertory Theatre invites guests to SPEAKEASY AT THE RITZ, a signature event that will amplify all the glitz, glamour, and Gatsby-era grandiosity that exemplify the Roaring '20s.

Guests won't be asked to quench their thirsts from concealed flasks, but will be rejuvenated by the secretive spirit of our hideaway high above the Bay's foggy mist. The evening will feature an opportunity for theatre lovers to gather and party the night away for a cause.

The glamorous evening includes a gourmet dinner, exclusive live-auction packages, and loads of entertainment -- all in support of the Theatre's artistic and educational programming. What is sure to be a memorable evening, SPEAKEASY AT THE RITZ is not to be missed!

"Every year we are so honored the theatre community comes out to support Berkeley Rep," says Rep trustee and Speakeasy Décor Chair, Jill Fugaro. "We want everyone to enjoy a festive, elegant evening while, at the same time, raise funds for arts education and help Berkeley Rep continue to bring innovative and challenging works to the Bay Area."

Get a ticket -- or an entire table -- for SPEAKEASY AT THE RITZ. Feast on a five-star meal prepared by The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco. Experience the thrill of live bidding led by DawnMarie Kotsonis for a chance to win elegant dining experiences, ritzy travel adventures, and exquisite cultural opportunities. Other spectacular auction items include a Private Yacht Adventure throughout coastal Spain on the World, for four.

SPEAKEASY AT THE RITZ features exquisite wines from C.G.Di Arie Vineyard & Winery, Folie á Deux, Match Vineyards, Quady Winery, Domaine Carneros by Taittinger, and Hafner Vineyard.

SPEAKEASY AT THE RITZ is made possible by the generosity of lead sponsors Fossil Group, The Strauch Kulhanjian Family, Bruce Golden and Michelle Mercer, and Stewart and Rachel Owen. The planning committee for the event includes Jean Strunsky (Silent and Live Auction Chair), Jill Fugaro (Decorations and Wine Nook Chair), Deborah Taylor (Entertainment Chair), and Stewart Owen (Sponsorship, Ticket, and Tables Chair).

Tickets for SPEAKEASY AT THE RITZ begin at $750. Tables are priced between $7,500 and $18,000. All proceeds from the event support the nonprofit Berkeley Repertory Theatre and the organization's education and outreach programs.

Berkeley Repertory Theatre has grown from a storefront stage to an international leader in innovative theatre. Known for its core values of imagination and excellence, as well as its educated and adventurous audience, the nonprofit has provided a welcoming home for emerging and established artists since 1968. In four decades, four million people have enjoyed nearly 400 shows at Berkeley Rep. These shows have gone on to win five Tony Awards, seven Obie Awards, nine Drama Desk Awards, one Grammy Award, and many other honors. In recognition of its place on the national stage, Berkeley Rep received the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre in 1997. Its bustling facilities - which include the 400-seat Peet's Theatre, the 600-seat Roda Theatre, the Berkeley Rep School of Theatre, the Osher Studio, and a spacious new campus in West Berkeley -- are helping revitalize a renowned city. Learn more at berkeleyrep.org.