ELKINS — The Randolph County Community Arts Center’s 24th annual Gala returns this year to take attendees down the yellow brick road on Friday, April 25.

The Gala, at the Arts Center on Two Park Street in Elkins, will begin at 6 p.m. and run until 10 p.m. The doors will open at 5:30 p.m.

The theme for this year is “There’s No Place Like Elkins,” an homage to the Wizard of Oz. Guests can “expect to see the Wicked Witch, the Good Witch, Dorothy and Toto, as well as some phenomenal artwork from artists across the country,” according to an Arts Center release.

“Last year we did Alice in Wonderland and it was a big hit, and the community really loved that theme,” Rachel Nestor, the Arts Center’s marketing and public relations specialist, told The Inter-Mountain. “So we were wanting to keep it in the same ballpark… I think we were a little inspired by the ‘Wicked’ movie coming out last year as well.”

The Gala is not only one of the Arts Center’s biggest fundraisers of the year, but also serves as the Opening Reception for the Gala Juried Fine Arts Exhibition. Nestor said approximately 90 to 100 pieces have been submitted for the exhibition.

Awards for the Gala Juried Arts Exhibition include Best in Show, First, Second, Third, Honorable Mention, Paul Bonnes 3D Award and People’s Choice, where the community votes on their favorite piece.

Many of the artists participating in the Gala Juried Arts Exhibition will be present during the Gala, and will be available to talk about and answer questions about their entries. This year’s juror, Brian Michael Reed, will also be in attendance to present awards and chat. 

A West Virginia native, Reed splits his time between New York City and China. Nestor said he is going to be “bringing a new perspective” to the Gala this year.

“It’s opening up a new door (for outside artists) and people are entering different pieces than they would have in the past,” Nestor said. “It’s more eccentric and abstract. I’m really excited.”

Tickets are still available to purchase online, or at the door the night of the Gala. There will be food, and guests are invited to come eat, drink, dance and connect with one another while supporting the Arts Center.

For more information, visit the Art Center’s website at randolpharts.org, or call 304-637-2355.