Hi all,
As I'm sure other organizations are doing right now, we at Olney Theatre Center are looking at how to move forward with our Gala (currently scheduled for May 16) given the current health crisis. Right now our date just barely falls outside of the 8 week window recently given by the CDC, but of course we know that window can change depending on how things progress. So I'd love to hear from other organizations with spring/summer Galas about how you're approaching this, especially if your Gala is currently scheduled for mid-May or later. I know some organizations have offered virtual Galas, and would love to have a sense of what that entails. Obviously things like a silent auction and even a performance can be done remotely, but such a big part of Galas is creating relationships which is much harder to do in a virtual setting. Also, how do you justify the cost of the ticket when you're not providing a meal and party?
Look forward to hearing the thoughts of others facing the same situation!
Colleen
I just asked this over in the Devo Boards. We have exactly the same Gala date as you.
Our Gala is more about a live performance than an auction, really, so we've discussed a virtual option. But, like you, there are questions about how to justify the cost. We may just move the date.
Hi Kate! I've actually been tracking other organizations with a Gala in spring or summer (to see what they do), and I saw that the Goodman had the same date as us! We are definitely considering a reschedule as well, though part of the hesitancy is that A) we've got Patina Miller as our performer (and she's on all of the branding) so a new date may mean we lose her and B) we're tight on space as it is so there aren't many dates where we'd be able to squeeze it in.
Same. I feel you.