Evening Timeline - Thursday, May 21, 2026
5:00 pm
- Complimentary Valet Parking and Red Carpet Entrance
- Cocktail Hour in the Main Lobby & on-going virtual silent auction
6:15 pm
- Dinner on stage in Thrivent Hall
- Presentation of the Distinguished Service Award
- Live Auction featuring packages you cannot find anywhere else
8:30 pm
- Dessert reception in Kimberly-Clark Theater, featuring a Craft Your Character Adventure fundraising-cocktail bar
- Enjoy music from Fox Valley Symphony Orchestra Musicians and Flash Poetry from Meredith Mason
Preview Silent Auction Packages Now!
Bidding opens Thursday, May 21 and closes at 7:30 p.m.
Menu - Catering will be provided by Zuppas
Please indicate any dietary restrictions when registering for The Gala and contact [email protected] with any questions or concerns.
- Salad: Mixed greens with strawberries, honey onion, candied walnuts, goat cheese and strawberry balsamic vinaigrette. Alongside GF biscuit with strawberry conserve and butter.
- Entree: (GF/DF): Braised short rib with a red wine-pomegranate reduction served with confit fingerling potatoes and grilled asparagus.
- Vegan/Vegetarian Entree: Braised king oyster mushroom with red wine-pomegranate reduction served with confit fingerling potatoes, grilled asparagus and smoky chickpeas with charred onions.
Premium Bottles of Wine are available for purchase!
All proceeds support the Center's mission, enhancing initiatives like the expansion of accessibility services making the live performing arts more enjoyable for people of all ages and abilities.
Complimentary Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon table wine will be served throughout dinner on stage in Thrivent Hall. Guests are invited to purchase premium bottles of wine, including non-alcoholic options, for themselves and their tables.
What To Wear
The Gala is a black-tie event, where elegance meets excitement. Attire includes tuxedos and suits, full-length gowns and cocktail dresses. As always, dressing to feel your best is what truly shines!
For your reference, below are a selection of photos featuring guest attire from previous years.
[Photography by Kim Thiel Photography]
2025 - Hollywood Premiere
2024 - Under the Big Top
2023 - Black and White
If you have any questions about The Gala, please contact the Center's Development Team at (920) 730-3782 or [email protected].