FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – Benefactors of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts gathered in the Porter Riverview Ballroom of the Huizenga Pavilion in October to celebrate the start of the Broward Center’s 25th Anniversary Season. The occasion was the Annual Reception of the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. This popular event for benefactors and donors attracted more than 150 guests who were wined, dined, entertained and enlightened during the course of the evening’s activities.
Back row: Lisa Kitei, Stanley Goodman, Kelley Shanley, Joe Amaturo Front row: Pearl Goodman, Bernie Peck, Micki Peck, Wini Amaturo
There was good reason to celebrate. Broward Performing Arts Foundation Board President Robert B. Lochrie, III reported on the state of the Foundation citing growth in both membership and program support. Executive Director Lisa Kitei spoke of Foundation initiatives for the coming season. She introduced the Sterling Society, a special gift program to celebrate the Broward Center’s 25th Anniversary, and recognized the early supporters who had made $25,000 gifts as part of this program. “Once again, we are inspired by the dedication of our donors,” Kitei said. “Their generosity allows us to continue to present outstanding theatrical experiences and award-winning educational programs for our South Florida community.” Kitei also announced that the 25th Anniversary Celebration would feature the multi-platinum recording artist and global pop star, Josh Groban, in performance on February 27, 2016. The benefit dinner sold out shortly after the announcement, but tickets for the performance are available and will go on sale to the public on November 9.
The 25-year legacy of the Broward Center was evident in remarks by President and CEO Kelley Shanley who spoke of the impact of the Broward Center over the years. He noted that in this, its 25th season, the Center will welcome its 3 millionth student, 14 thousandth show, and 12 millionth visitor. Shanley also discussed the success of the Encore! capital project in enriching the audience experience and enhancing educational opportunities at the Broward Center. “We have created an even more compelling destination for our patrons,” he said.
The program ended with a performance from ONCE, the Tony Award-winning musical which opened the following night at the Broward Center’s Au-Rene Theater as part of the Bank of America Broadway in Fort Lauderdale series.
