Hampton Arts 32nd Anniversary Gala
Hampton Arts 32nd Anniversary Gala
Our Hampton Arts Gala is just weeks away!
This annual event allows patrons of the arts to come together at The American Theatre to celebrate the fantastic visual and performing arts produced in our community.
Our Gala allows us to honor individuals that have demonstrated leadership in the creative sector. This year's honorees, Beverly Diamonstein and Jay Pharoah, are awarded the Renaissance Award, recognizing their long-term commitment to the arts in Hampton, Coastal Virginia, and beyond.
Beverly Diamonstein, along with her husband, Alan, has donated to causes such as An Achievable Dream, the Newport News Public Art Foundation, and our very own Hampton Arts Foundation. The Alan and Beverly Diamonstein Concert Hall at the Ferguson Center for the Arts is named in their honor due to their incredible vision to provide a performing arts venue for students and citizens alike.
Jay Pharoah, most notably of Saturday Night Live fame, has returned to his native roots in Hampton Roads quite often to provide comedic impressions and hilarious stand-up specials. The rise of local talent to a national spotlight deserves great credit in the performing arts world! In addition to his career success, Pharoah offers meet and greets for local fans, most recently at Code Ninjas in Virginia Beach.
Our headliner for the evening's performance is none other than Nova Y. Payton. Her latest work on stage is in BLACKBEARD at Signature Theatre. Broadway World says, "Nova Y. Payton as Dominique, like her star turn song says, will hold you 'Spellbound'."
Last but not least, Payton will be accompanied by a local favorite, The Hurrah Players. The leading family theatre group last performed at The American Theatre in 2017 for three, sold-out shows of The Lion King Experience.