Kristin Chenoweth to Headline Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation’s 2024 Transformation Gala

January 24, 2024 – Sarasota

The Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation (PAF) proudly announces the return of the 2024 Transformation Gala on Friday, March 22, 2024 at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Featuring Kristin Chenoweth, New York Times best-selling author and Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress and singer, the 2024 Transformation Gala promises an incredible evening dedicated to experiencing the transformative power of the arts.

Set along the beautiful waterfront of Sarasota Bay, the 22nd annual event supports the PAF’s vision for a new Performing Arts Center and their transformative arts education work that touches the lives of more than 33,000 educators, military families, and students. 

“The 22nd annual Transformation Gala embodies the evolving spirit of the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation while showcasing our steadfast dedication to advancing the arts and shaping the future of creative education in our community,” says Tania Castroverde Moskalenko, newly-appointed CEO of the Performing Arts Foundation. “Your support ensures that minds of all ages have access to the arts – an important investment for our children.”

Led by co-chairs Kathy Martella and Susan Travers, the night begins with a bayside cocktail celebration and exceptional dining catered by Michael’s on East, followed by a thrilling concert featuring Tony Award-winning artist Kristin Chenoweth in the Van Wezel Hall. The celebration concludes with a rocking private afterparty in the grand foyer.

“We invite you to join us at this year’s Transformation Gala. Your support is vital to ensuring the future of the arts in Sarasota, fulfilling the community’s vision for a new Performing Arts Center at the heart of The Bay and further instilling Sarasota as a preeminent destination for performing arts in the nation,” says Susan Travers, event co-chair. 

The gala stands as a tribute to artistic excellence, spotlighting the distinguished career of Kristin Chenoweth, an accomplished artist with work spanning film, television, voiceover, and the performing arts stage. Chenoweth’s resume includes Emmy and Tony Awards, a coveted star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and iconic roles in Broadway productions like “Wicked” and “You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown.” 

Since 2002, the Gala has served as the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation’s annual fundraising event. Contributions play a crucial role in the Foundation’s mission to build a world-class performing arts center that will enhance the community, support arts education and inspire young minds for children and families throughout the region.

Proceeds from the gala help to fund the PAF’s educational programs, support our partnered educational programs at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, contribute to the planning of the new Sarasota Performing Arts Center, and solidifies the future of the arts in Sarasota.

“The re-invented Transformation Gala symbolizes a movement toward a more inspired future, offering an opportunity to experience the transformative power of the arts and make a meaningful impact on the community,” says Kathy Martella, event co-chair. “As we usher in a new year and a new theme, we invite you to join us in celebrating, giving, and furthering a shared vision for the future of the arts in our community.”

The host committee of the 2024 Transformation Gala includes: 

• Paul Seed, StarTech.com
• Jim and Susan Travers
• The Amicus Foundation
• Gerald and Sondra Biller
• Dr. Jenne K. Britell, PHD
• The W. Dale Brougher Foundation
• Vern and Liliana Chalfant
• Julie A. Harris
• David Koffman
• John and Donna Krenicki
• Bill and Christie Krugler
• Martella Family Foundation
• Tom and Pamela Reilly Foundation
• Michele Hooper and Lemuel Seabrook 
• Nanci and Christopher Weaver

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this special night. Tickets and table sponsorships are now available. For more information about table sponsorships, benefits, and tickets, visit www.PerformingArtsFoundation.org or contact Nicole Hancock at nhancock@performingartsfoundation.org.