All Roads Led to ‘Destination Starlight’ on May 17

The 28th Annual Starlight Theatre Benefit Gala was a big success — and a thrilling ride — with Russ and Debbie Welsh at the wheel, serving as the event’s chairs. The evening’s theme, “Destination Starlight,” captured the joy and excitement thousands experience each year at one of Kansas City’s top live entertainment venues.

One highlight of the Starlight Gala was the presentation of the 2014 Star Award to U.S. Bank President Mark Jorgenson in recognition of his longstanding commitment to Starlight and other important causes in the Greater Kansas City community. And, after guests enjoyed a multi-course dinner, they were treated to another highlight — an original theatrical performance produced by EPIC Events, a Starlight subsidiary. The show featured students in Starlight’s education programs, along with local professionals, performing music from Starlight’s upcoming Broadway season:The Sound of Music, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and The Wizard of Oz. The evening concluded with guest dancing under the stars until midnight.

Major sponsors, including The Deramus Foundation, the Muriel McBrien Kauffman Foundation, Polsinelli and Sprint, helped raise $500,000 in net proceeds to provide critical operating support to Starlight. We thank all of our Gala donors and guests for ensuring this historic theatre will remain a treasured Midwest destination for years to come.