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ELKINS -- The Arts Center's 20th annual gala fundraiser will be held as an in-person event later this month, after two years of cancellation due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The theme of this year's gala, set for 6 p.m. Saturday, April 30, is "A Gala Garden Party." In addition to being The Arts Center's largest fundraiser of the year, the gala is also the opening reception for the Gala Jurored Art Exhibit, featuring artists from around the state and beyond.
"This is The Arts Center's 20th anniversary gala, though in fact we've been operating for 21 years now," Arts Center Executive Director Kurt Barkley said. "Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have not held our gala since 2019, and we rely on this fundraiser each year."
Featuring a full meal including hors d'oeuvres, buffet, desserts and drinks, the event will also feature musical entertainment provided by Seth Maynard during the dinner hour. The Franks Family will perform danceable favorites from the past decades and today.
"We also have several very nice items for our silent auction this year, contributed by artisans from all over the region, and we will hold a 50/50 drawing," Barkley said.
Due to COVID-19, The Arts Center was closed from March 2020 until December of that year, then was open on a very limited basis in 2021. The Arts Center is now again able to offer the full range of art classes, concerts, exhibits and special events it provides the community each year.
"Everyone has been hit hard by the virus, especially non-profits like The Arts Center, so this gala means a lot to us," Barkley said, adding that while the event is called the annual "gala," it is, in fact, a very casual event with a relaxed, fun atmosphere.
"The gala is just an opportunity for everyone to come out, dressed casually, and have a great time," he said. "There are no tuxedoes or evening gowns, far from it, just a good time for anyone who would like to support The Arts Center."
Barkley also acknowledged the Elkins Rehabilitation and Care Center and Colonial Motors as the gala's sponsors.
"The leadership and board of the ERCC have been generous enough to sponsor several of our galas, and we are extremely grateful for their support of our work and mission," he said. "Also, a very special thanks to Colonial Motors for co-sponsoring this event."
Tickets are available online at The Arts Center's web site, www.randolpharts.org, and at The Arts Center office.