Star-Studded Night Raises $225,000 for MTW's Educational Programs

The grandeur of an evening filled with musicals and generosity was on full display as a gathering of 400 ardent supporters attended the annual Broadway in the Park fundraiser. Held on August 17 at The Grand, this beloved event exceeded all expectations. From the warm pre-event festivities, sponsored by patrons Joe and Edna Moore, to the magical performance numbers and spirited auctions, the night was a blend of entertainment, community spirit, and philanthropy.

A Celebration Under the Stars

The VIP pre-event party saw 265 guests mingling on the picturesque patio, serenaded by the soulful sounds of the Long Beach Blues Society. Upon entering the Grand Ballroom, guests found themselves surrounded by tables adorned in blue and silver, accentuated by delicate baskets of orchids—a night shimmering with elegance reminiscent of the shows themselves.

Enchanting Performances and Gracious Giving

The talented ensemble delighted the crowd with an exciting preview of MTW’s upcoming season featuring “Man of La Mancha,” “In the Heights,” “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” and “Little Women.” The site of such renowned performances indeed stirred a sense of nostalgia and anticipation among those present.

Paul Garman, the Executive Director/Producer, emphasized the fundraiser’s purpose, reminding attendees that their contributions would benefit educational programs throughout the 2025-26 school year. The response was commendable, with bidders raising an impressive $225,000 to support the arts at a community level.

Educational Impact of Theatre

Dana Leach shared insights into MTW’s far-reaching educational initiatives, highlighting that last year 8,500 students from 64 schools enjoyed complimentary matinee performances. In addition, traveling shows touched the lives of 9,000 students across numerous schools and community sites. The statistics were a testament to MTW’s commitment to accessible arts education, benefiting over half the campuses within the Long Beach Unified School District annually.

Scholarships and Silent Auctions

Scholarship winners were recognized during the evening, each sharing in the organization’s emphasis on supporting young theatre enthusiasts. The silent auction, a cherished fundraising element of the evening, saw contributions from dedicated committee members and sponsors, raising a notable $34,000.

An Evening to Remember

As laughter and bids echoed through the hall, it became clear that the spirit of giving had been truly embraced. This year’s event will live on in the hearts of attendees as a testament to how arts and education can transform communities. According to Press Telegram, events like Broadway in the Park showcase the power of collective effort in nurturing future talents and spreading the joy of theatre to all ages.

The success of the evening was owed not only to the spectacular performances but also to the numerous sponsors and volunteers who worked tirelessly to create a memorable event—proving once again the magic of theatre’s power to unite and inspire.