Members of the local community gathered at the Reilly Arts Center in Ocala on Thursday night for “Beyond the Stage,” an annual fundraising gala that included musical performances and over $100,000 in donations.
The event at the Reilly Arts Center (500 NE 9th Street in Ocala) showcased a diverse array of musical talent while raising funds to benefit music education and arts programming.
Guests were treated to musical performances by the Ocala Symphony Orchestra Chorus led by Joshua L. Mazur, Ocala Symphony Concertmaster Stewart Kitts, Community Music Conservatory students, and local artist The Doug Adams Band.
In addition, the gala surpassed its goal thanks to the generosity of the community, raising over $105,000. According to the Reilly Arts Center, major gifts from The Midgett Family Fund, Angie Lewis State Farm, Neighborhood Storage, William and Cindy Nassal, David Treitel and Carla D’Andre, Kevin and Maryann Donohue, and Thomas and Stacey Files played a crucial role in reaching this milestone.
“It is always so inspiring and so humbling to witness our community of supporters come together not only to champion our mission, but to build an Ocala with art and music at its center,” said R.J. Jenkins, Board Chair.
In a media release, the Reilly Arts Center stated that the success of the gala “showcases the commitment of the Ocala community to preserving and promoting the arts, ensuring that music continues to enrich the lives of individuals of all ages and backgrounds for years to come.”
For more information, or to view upcoming events, visit the Reilly Arts Center’s website.