What is the order of events for the night?

The event begins at 6:30pm when guests can check in at the registration desk and begin enjoying cocktails, dinner selections, and an exciting auction before the 8pm performance of Something Rotten on the Park Playhouse Stage.

How do I get my tickets?

If you have already ordered your tickets in advance, THANK YOU! You don’t need to worry about having tickets in hand when you arrive at the park, because all Gala Guests will be welcomed at the registration table upon arrival. We will have ushers on hand to help you find your seats since this evening will be exclusively table seating, unlike our usual traditional theatre arrangement. But don’t worry about a thing, you will get all of that information when you check in to the event!

Looking to PURCHASE your tickets? Call Maureen Neufeld at 518-434-2035 ext. 104 to book your tickets by phone, or visit our event page to purchase your tickets online.

Is there a dress code for this event?

We are looking forward to celebrating our anniversary in style, but are also mindful of the realities of an outdoor event in late June. In order to remain comfortable in the summer sun (into the evening), we recommend dressing more for a garden party and leave the tuxedos at home.

What happens if it rains?

This has been a Park Playhouse concern for 35 years, and our Gala evening is no exception! If we are faced with inclement weather, the party will be moved indoors inside the Washington Park Lake House for the evening of June 29. We will still have our catering, bar service, and some of our celebratory surprises ready for the evening, even if we cannot be under the stars. In the event that we are unable to have a performance that evening, all guests of the gala will be given complimentary tickets to the performance of their choice during our summer season for either Something Rotten (June 30-July 22) or The Secret Garden (August 3-19).

Is a portion of the gala ticket tax deductible?

Yes! Park Playhouse Inc. is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and the funds from this event help to support the cost of hosting a season of free theatre in Washington Park over the summer, and well as our year-round arts education initiatives.

If I have a business, can I donate an item to the Gala?

Yes, please! We want our auction to be as exciting and interesting as the audiences we serve, so we would love to have auction lots of all kinds available for bidding. Please contact maureen@playhousestage.org to find out how to become an auction donor.

Do I have to attend the Gala to bid on auction items?

No! While Gala attendees will have a chance to see all of the auction items up close at the event, bidding is going to be open to everyone through our mobile bidding platform. The auction will begin preview mode a few days before the event, so be sure to follow us on Facebook or check this FAQ page for updates leading up to the event - we will be posting a link to the virtual auction for your browsing pleasure!

Is the amphitheater available for seating for the show that night?

Absolutely! The reserved section of the theatre will look different than normal because of the table seating for the Gala, but this is the opening night of Something Rotten! The amphitheater will be available for free seating on a first-come, first-served basis - no reservations required! Please feel free to bring a blanket or a chair and come support our artists as they put on a great show.

Where do I park?

Visitors to the park can often find street parking on the roads throughout Washington Park, or right around it. Guests of the Gala may also use our reserved parking section, which can be accessed via the New Scotland Ave entrance to the park.