Breaking Ground at the 37th Annual Gala!
At Starlight, every performance, program, and project represent a step forward – a breaking of new ground as we blend innovation with tradition to create unforgettable live arts experiences. And on Saturday, October 5, more than 400 attendees joined together to celebrate this theme at our 37th Annual Gala: Breaking Ground, presented by CommunityAmerica Credit Union, Delta Dental, and Surency.
This year’s event raised more than $675,000 thanks to the generosity of sponsors, ticketholders, and donors. Each year, funds raised through the Gala enable Starlight to impact the lives of 40,000 residents through education and community engagement programs, bring world-class Broadway productions and concerts to more than 320,000 patrons, and sustain this cultural landmark for generations to come.
Dressed in formal attire, Gala attendees enjoyed a red-carpet reception, sponsored by Seigfreid Bingham and Polsinelli, in the Shirley Bush Helzberg Garden of the Stars. A delicious dinner and entertainment followed, sponsored by JE Dunn Construction, on the Jeanette and Jerome Cohen Community Stage. The entertainment featured multiple performing artists, including current Blue Star Award students and program alumni.
Starlight honored Don and Jean Wagner with the presentation of the 2024 Star Award. The Wagners have consistently inspired future generations through their legacy of breaking ground through community leadership. They have uplifted and transformed both Starlight and Kansas City, and we were proud to present this year’s award to them both.
Additionally, Starlight was proud to recognize former Chair of Starlight’s Board of Directors, Ora Reynolds, after being awarded the “Star of Touring Broadway Award” from The Broadway League. This award recognizes volunteers who support and champion the touring Broadway series offered in their hometowns and is presented to only two awardees in the nation.
The night ended on a celebratory note with an after party, sponsored by Stepp & Rothwell, consisting of live music by Twice on Sunday and dancing in the Applause Club and Garden.
Photos from the Night
Save the Date!
Starlight’s 38th Annual Gala will take place Saturday, October 4th, 2025, and will be chaired by Bill & Denise Bade and Robert & Melissa Hingula. Keep an eye on our website for event details (coming soon!) or contact Denton Williams at denton.williams@kcstarlight.com.
Thank you to this year’s Gala benefactors for their extraordinary generosity:
We appreciate the support of all the additional donors who made this event possible!