Really big show
Fundraising gala/auction a stellar event for Arkansas Rep
There’s always some drama at the annual Saints and Sinners gala — but that’s a good thing. The highlight of this year’s fundraiser for the Arkansas Repertory Theatre on Feb. 3 was a one-time production titled Believe — created just for the event.
The show, which included singing and dancing by the cast and featured Jay Clark and Corbin Pitts, was conceived and directed by The Rep’s production manager Rafael Castanera.
The evening began with a cocktail hour and silent auction. Guests could also watch the creation of and bid on artwork by painter Gabriel Solis at the reception. During dinner, entertainment was by a trio of musicians who regularly play for The Rep — Andrew Cooke, Brian Wolverton and Patrick Lindsey.
A live auction followed Believe. Guests had a chance to bid on a walkon role in a forthcoming production of Mamma Mia!, a chance to sit in and play or sing with one of Little Rock’s favorite bands, the Greasy Greens, or dinner with 13 friends and the cast of Mamma Mia! at the home of Cindy and Chip Murphy. Betsy Singleton Snyder modeled several thousand dollars worth of diamond jewelry for bidders interested in winning the bid for a $10,000 gift certificate to Sissy’s Log Cabin.
Parker Lexus was the event’s presenting sponsor and serving as event chairmen were Jennifer Wilson-Harvey and Jack Harvey.