Set amid the enchanting wonders of Morocco, the gala “Casablanca” promises to be an affair as memorable as the one between the characters in this legendary film.
The most exciting fundraising event of the year in south Mississippi, “Casablanca” will take place at 7 p.m. Thursday, September 26, at the Hattiesburg-Bobby L. Chain Municipal Airport. Sponsored by Partners for the Arts, proceeds raised will bring vital support to the arts programs at Southern Miss.
Tickets are now on sale for the Partners for the Arts gala in celebration of the renowned University of Southern Mississippi Symphony Orchestra’s 100th anniversary.
A decade ago, the symphony set the bar high for elaborate spectacles and now, the team returns to create an event the Hattiesburg area won’t soon forget.
The creative team that produced the “Atlantis” and “Shangri-La” galas returns with the most exciting fundraising event of the year in south Mississippi. Designed by Dr. Mike Lopinto of the College of Arts and Sciences, the event will be a collaborative effort between faculty, staff and students of the arts at Southern Miss.
"After a 10-year hiatus, we have gathered our resources, inviting back everyone who made those past galas such a success," Lopinto said. "The new venue offers exciting possibilities and we are planning so many surprises, thanks to the generosity of the community who is really stepping up to make this centennial a feast for the senses."
Details for this spectacular celebration will not be revealed, but guests can expect to be wowed with musical performances by the USM Symphony Orchestra and Jazz Bands, as well as a cirque artist, costumed characters and more.
The gala will kick off the USM Symphony Orchestra's year-long Centennial Celebration, while raising much-needed funds to enhance the arts offerings at Southern Miss.
“I'm so excited for this opportunity with this dream team committee to continue the legacy of spectacular events such as Atlantis, Shangri-La, Moulin Rouge and Gold – all for the benefit of Partners for the Arts to attract the most talented, creative students around for USM’s creative and performing arts programs,” said Leigh Ann Underwood, event chair. “Casablanca promises to be like no other event held in south Mississippi. With an unusual venue and outstanding talent, I know you will not have seen or heard anything like it. It promises to be an evening to remember.”
Partners for the Arts provides thousands of dollars annually to underwrite the arts programs that bring the world to attendees and secures the scholarship, mentoring, creation and production of art in the Hattiesburg community.
Gala tickets are now on sale at $100 per person. Sponsorships and donations for the gala are also being accepted until Aug. 9. To support this special centennial celebration and help underwrite many of the event costs via sponsorships, visit ev6.evenue.net.
