The Kings Art Complex will host its 23rd Anniversary Gala Saturday at 8:00 p.m.
Themed “Global Reflections,” the event will be an artistic tour of North America, Latin America, Africa, Asia and the Caribbean.
Music, dance venues, eclectic cuisines and specialty drinks will be the vehicles used to take attendees on a global tour, according to a press release.
“Our gala has a reputation as the ‘spring’ event to attend,” said Toni Johnson, marketing and membership director for the King Arts Complex. “Our theme Global Reflections will highlight our rich and diverse cultural threads while reflecting our soulful connections and commonalities.”
An event that began as a means of fundraising for education, visual and performing programming, attracting 100 people, has evolved to something that continues to grow tremendously, Johnson said.
Expectations for this year’s gala are high because attendance has increased to more than 500 and has continued to grow with each passing year, she said.
“Over the last few years we’ve added a huge dining and entertainment tents in the parking lot, casinos and hosting VIP receptions for our stakeholders,” Johnson said. “We market to a more diverse audience therefore attracting people from all over the city.”
Described as a “party with a purpose” by complex staff, the gala’s goal continues to be to ensure financial support for art and educational opportunities provided to the community by the complex.
This year’s gala will feature live entertainment from R&B recording artist Shirley Murdock.
The Andrew Waters Trio, T. Michael Branner Conceptet, L.G Scott, Sabrina Tutstone, DJ Rich Nice of The Usual Suspects Crew, DJ Lane Love, Funkydef and NexLevel will also be performing.
Each year’s entertainment selections are based on quality of music and style and the goal is to try to rotate talent and choose different national artists every year, Johnson said.
A silent auction that will showcase works by nationally acclaimed artists and fine jewelers will also take place at Saturday’s gala.
The event will also feature an array of caterers and restaurants who will be contributing to the “Global Reflections” theme in their own way. All Around Columbus Catering, Aramark, Creole Kitchen, Dream Lounge Café, Big E’s Southern Q, Linden Café, Capitol Club, Black Olive, Black Orchid, Taste & See and Mrs. B’s Just Wonderful will all be providing cuisine for the occasion.
“We really enjoy the opportunity to interface with our corporate supporters, board members and patrons in a relaxed atmosphere,” said Interim Executive Director Sheryle Powell. “It is a great way to build relationships and showcase all the complex has to offer.”
PNC bank is the primary sponsor of Saturday’s event.
Information for the “Global Reflections” Gala can be found at thekingartscomplex.com.
