Asolo Rep’s Annual Gala
An unforgettable evening of elegance and impact, Aquarius was one of the most successful galas in Asolo Rep history, raising more than $900,000 in support of the theatre.Held at the new Mote SEA, the night united patrons, artists, and community leaders in celebration of the power of live theatre.
Aquarius: Asolo Rep Annual Gala
An Evening Beneath the Waves | Mote SEA
Asolo Repertory Theatre is proud to share that Aquarius: Asolo Rep Annual Gala was one of the most successful galas in our history, raising more than $900,000 in support of our mission.
Held beneath the shimmering waves of the new Mote SEA, guests were immersed in the beauty of the Gulf’s aquatic wonders while enjoying fine dining, dancing, and a captivating performance celebrating the power of live theatre. The evening was a vibrant tribute to the artists and audiences who make Asolo Rep extraordinary.
The funds generated from this Gala sustain the talented artists and productions at Asolo Rep. The generosity of our loyal donors empowers top-level actors, musicians, designers, directors, and creative teams to produce the professional theatre Sarasota deserves.
Leadership
The evening’s success would not have been possible without the dedication and enthusiasm of our Gala Co-Chairs:
Ariane Dart, Melonie Favorite, and Chris Voelker
We are also deeply grateful to our Gala Committee:
Eduardo Anaya
Kelly Borgia
Mary Braxton Joseph
Rachel Campise
Cheyanne Clark
Fiona Farrell
Wendy Feinstein
Beth Hirsch
Barbara Howton
Enid Marshall
Carol Niebanck
Katie Novack
Charlotte Stewart
James Wright
Their leadership, generosity, and tireless work helped make this celebration one for the history books.
Date
Friday, February 27, 2026
Time6:30 – 11:30 p.m.
LocationMote Science Education Aquarium
225 University Town Center Drive
Sarasota, FL 34243
Gala Chairs
Ariane Dart
Melonie Favorite
Chris Voelker
Committee Members
Eduardo Anaya
Kelly Borgia
Mary Braxton-Joseph
Rachel Campise
Cheyanne Clark
Fiona Farrell
Wendy Feinstein
Beth Hirsch
Barbara Howton
Enid Marshall
Carol Niebanck
Katie NovackCharlotte Stewart
James Wright
Lead Sponsor
Gulf Coast Community Foundation
Platinum Sponsors
Karl Copas
Ariane Dart
Beth and Marc Hirsch
Ann and Tom Charters
Richard and Ellen Sandor
Zelia and Martin Trueb
Gold Sponsors
Barancik Foundation
Fran and Don Berg
David Harding and Blair Trippe
Larry and Debbie Haspel
Barbara Howton and Deb Farrington
Susan Scarbrough
Pam Reiter and Jimmy Sudderth
Kathy and John Pleune
Geri and Ron Yonover
Silver Sponsors
Mary Braxton-Joseph
Gerald and Sondra Biller
Terry O. Brackett
Lucy Calautti and Senator Kent Conrad
Sean and Melanie Natarajan
Jan McClure
Bronze Sponsors
Kym and Gerret Copeland
Kathleen and Michael France
Melonie Favorite and Conrad Kenley
Rita Greenbaum
Scott and Candy Greer
Nancy Mina
Douglas Thweatt, in memory of Paul Grootkerk
Chris and Kirk Voelker
Wealth Strategies Partners
The New Amsterdam Charitable Foundation
The DiDomenico Family Charitable Trust
Truist
Enid Marshall
Nikol Miller and Bryan Williams
Shelton Precision, LLC
2026 Annual Gala Recap
Our 2026 Annual Gala, Aquarius, was an unforgettable celebration of artistry and generosity. Guests gathered at the stunning new Mote SEA for an evening of fine dining, dancing, and a spectacular performance in support of Asolo Rep’s mission.
Thank you to our incredible community for making the evening such a meaningful success. Your support truly makes a difference.
