McCallum Theatre Gala Raises $1.1 Million – Dec. 3, 2013

In an economic era where theatres and symphony orchestras around the world are struggling to survive, the McCallum Theatre stands out as a dynamic success story. Harold Matzner, co-chair of the McCallum’s Annual Gala on Dec. 3, announced from the stage that the evening had generated $1.1 million dollars for the theater and that this is the 12 consecutive years that the theater has operated with a surplus.

Guest were welcomed by co-chairs Matzner and Helene Galen before introduction of Mitch Gershenfeld, the theater’s President and CEO. Honoree Wayne Prim, Trustee Emeritus who served as board chairman from1991 to 1997, paid tribute to early board members and called it his honor “to be part of this jewel of a theater.”

The show featured performances by Chris Mann and Katharine Jenkins, favorites from Dancing With The Stars and The Voice who have been featured together on PBS Specials, and a surprise appearance by the 10 Ten Tenors who brought the house down with “Waltzing Matilda” The performance opened with a 60 piece symphony orchestra conducted by Emmy and Grammy Award winner Richard Kaufman. The evening included Jenkins and Mann performing such favorites as “The Prayer” and “Time To Say Goodbye” backed by the symphony orchestra. 

Before going to the theater, Diamond, Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze and Director’s Circle sponsors enjoyed an early dinner at one of four restaurants, Cuistot, Jillian’s, La Spiga, and Wally’s of the Desert.

Photography by Sherri Breyer, Marc Glassman and Lani Garfield