First Annual Gala Raises $18,000 for New Theatre

An unexpectedly large crowd turned out to support Chenanago River Theatre at the company’s first Gala fundraiser at the Silo Restaurant on January 12. It was an evening of wine and appetizers with great entertainment from notable area entertainers, and featured both a silent and live auction, with dozens of items donated by businesses and individuals throughout the greater Binghamton area. By the end of the evening, $18,000 had been raised to help support the operations of the area’s only non-profit, Equity theatre company.

Over 130 supporters attended and enjoyed a simply terrific party hosted and arranged by the Gala Committee for CRT (Sharon McLean-Tydings Real Estate; Carolyn Mancini-OGGI Concrete Forms & Accessories; Rob Salamida-Rob Salamida Co. and Margaret Crocker-Director, Discovery Museum). Supporting the event as the corporate host was local staffing expert Manpower, with key staff and guests from Manpower attending as well.

Highlighting the evening (besides delectable appetizers from the Silo Restaurant) were songs from singers Claus Evans, Bill Gorman, Tony Villecco and Drew Moxley, as well as the artistry of musicians Al Hamme and Bill Carter to kick off the event. Emcee Sharon McLean directed the live auction, which featured such items as resort vacations, dinner for 6 prepared in your home by a professional chef, and high-calibre artwork.

Plans are already underway for the 2nd Annual Gala, to be held at the close of Chenango River Theatre’s 2008 season. If you would like to be on the company’s mailing list to receive notice of their upcoming season, or to donate items or prizes to the Gala Committee, please contact the office at 656-8778.