Tapestry

September 25, 2024, from 5:30pm – 8:30pm;
After Party 8:30pm – 10pm

The 2024 Elm Shakespeare Gala

Weaving Legacy and Celebration

Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating 25 years of dedication by Barbara Schaffer. Experience the rich tapestry of Elm Shakespeare through captivating performances, gourmet delights, and immersive storytelling.

Welcome to the 2024 Elm Shakespeare Gala, an evening woven with the intricate threads of artistry, heritage, and community. This year's theme, Tapestry, captures the essence of our mission and the spirit of our celebration. Just as a tapestry combines diverse threads to create a unified masterpiece, we gather to honor the rich history and vibrant future of Elm Shakespeare, and your thread throughout our story.

A tapestry tells a story through its detailed patterns and images, much like our gala will narrate the epic journey of Elm Shakespeare and its impact on the community. Each moment of the evening will reflect the craftsmanship, dedication, and passion that defines our work. From enchanting performances to culinary delights, every element is meticulously designed to create an immersive experience that delights and inspires.

We also celebrate the unity and interconnectedness that a tapestry symbolizes. Our gala brings together patrons, artists, alumni, and friends like you, each contributing their unique thread to the fabric of our community. As we honor Barbara Schaffer’s 25 years of dedication, we weave together stories of past achievements and future aspirations, highlighting the profound impact of our educational programs on the next generation and the resonance of the artists who have walked our stage.

Join us for an unforgettable night where every guest plays a part in crafting the story of Elm Shakespeare. Let’s celebrate our shared heritage, embrace our cultural significance, and look forward to the bright future we are building together.

Honoree

Celebrating Barbara Schaffer

Join us for an evening dedicated to celebrating Barbara Schaffer’s remarkable career and the strong foundation she has laid for Elm Shakespeare’s continued success. Let’s honor her contributions and commit to building the future of our shared artistic community.

Barbara’s vibrant personality, tireless enthusiasm, and visionary leadership have been foundational in establishing Elm Shakespeare's legacy.

Barbara began her journey with Elm Shakespeare in 1998, during its third season of Shakespeare in the Park. Over 25 years, her boundless optimism and passion transformed our organization, making live theater accessible and enriching the lives of countless community members.

Woven into Elm Shakespeare’s foundation is Barbara’s excellence as a:

  • Fundraising Genius
  • Community Builder
  • Visionary Leader
  • Event Innovator

Known for her lively, colorful stories and her ability to inspire everyone around her, Barbara has been a beacon of light and energy. As we honor Barbara at the Tapestry Gala, we celebrate not just her contributions, but also the vibrant future she has helped to shape.

This year’s theme, Tapestry, symbolizes the intricate weaving of stories, talents, and communities that Barbara has so passionately nurtured. Her legacy of making theater accessible, engaging, and transformative has shaped Elm Shakespeare's values of inclusivity, education, and cultural enrichment.

Venue

Join us at the exquisite Amarante's Sea Cliff, a premier waterfront venue in New Haven, CT. With its breathtaking shoreline views and elegant atmosphere, Amarante's Sea Cliff provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening of celebration and connection.

Address
62 Cove Street
New Haven, CT 06512
Directions

Why Attend?

1. Insider Insight 

Season Reveal! Be the first to hear about the exciting 2025 Elm Shakespeare season. You’ll gain exclusive insights into upcoming performances and initiatives that continue to build on Elm Shakespeare's professional legacy. 

2. Invest in the Future 

Your attendance directly supports Elm Shakespeare’s mission of making theater accessible and enriching for all. By attending the Tapestry Gala, you’re not only enjoying an evening of exquisite food and entertainment but also contributing to the ongoing success and future growth of Elm Shakespeare and our entire community. 

3. Immersive and Interactive Experiences 

The Tapestry Gala offers more than just a night of performances. Engage in interactive stations such as weaving loom demonstrations and a digital tapestry creation in real-time. Indulge in a culinary journey curated by top chefs, including Executive Chef Richard Agamine from Amarante's Sea Cliff and culinary stars like Dave McCourt. Enjoy a variety of tastings, flights, and a special event cocktail that promise to tantalize your taste buds and provide a gourmet experience like no other. And don’t miss the Tapestry Gala After Party – a dance party and live band karaoke experience! 

4. Celebrate a Remarkable Legacy 

This gala is a unique opportunity to celebrate Barbara Schaffer's 25 years of dedicated service to Elm Shakespeare. Her contributions have been pivotal in establishing the organization as a thriving cultural institution. Attending this event means honoring her legacy and being part of a special tribute to her remarkable career. 

5. Silent Auction 

The Tapestry Gala Silent Auction will open online prior to the event, allowing you to start bidding on unique experiences that reflect our shared purpose, passions, and interests. All bids will close out at the event. Participate in this exciting opportunity to support Elm Shakespeare while enjoying exclusive and meaningful experiences. 

6. Who You’ll Meet at the Tapestry Gala 

  • Community and Business Leaders 

  • Elm Shakespeare Audience Members 

  • Advocates 

  • Activists 

  • Artists 

  • Educators and Teaching Artists 

  • Philanthropists 

Afterparty

Including live band karaoke!

Keep the celebration going at the Tapestry Gala After Party! Dance the night away with live music, enjoy a lively atmosphere with friends, and savor exclusive after-party delights. This is the perfect opportunity to unwind, connect, and create lasting memories. Purchase a ticket that includes the After Party to ensure you don't miss out on this unforgettable finale to an extraordinary evening. 

Special Thanks

Thank you to our Sponsors of the Tapestry Gala

 

Meet the Tapestry Gala Task Force

Introducing the dedicated individuals behind the Tapestry Gala, the task force that brought this vision to life. Their passion, creativity, and hard work have crafted an unforgettable experience for you. Join us to celebrate their efforts and enjoy an evening of culture, connection, and community.

  • Paula Armbruster

  • Jessica Carso Bhuiyan

  • Jamie Burnett

  • Sarah Bowles

  • Janelle Clark

  • Lucy Diaz

  • Maria Freda

  • Evie Gard

  • Rebecca Goodheart

  • Alice-Anne Harwood

  • Joan Hickey

  • Babz Rawlz Ivy

  • Karen Kessler

  • Erica Killer

  • David McCoart

  • Frank Mitchell

  • Lourdes Rivera

  • Robin Sauerteig

  • Debra Schaffer

  • Aaron Sherrill

  • Danielle Williams

Frequently Asked Questions

The Tapestry Gala will be held on September 25, 2024, from 5:30pm – 8:30pm; After Party 8:30pm – 10pm.

The event will be held at Amarante's Sea Cliff in New Haven, CT.

62 Cove Street
New Haven, CT 06512
Find on Google Maps

Wear your brightest and boldest cocktail attire, or what represents your heritage. We’ll create a tapestry of color and culture through joyful, celebratory attire that’s perfect for a New Haven fall evening.

  • Change Maker Pass:$250 - Includes access to both the Main Gala event and Afterparty access.
  • Main Gala Event Only: $175 - Includes access to the main event.
  • Afterparty Access Only:$75 - Includes access to the afterparty only.
    *Parents who would like to bring children to both events, contact us at development@elmshakespeare.org

Yes, tickets can be purchased online by clicking here.

The Change Maker Pass includes access to the main event, featuring performances, gourmet tastings, and the silent auction, as well as the exclusive afterparty with live music and additional delights.

The silent auction will open online prior to the event and all bids will close out at the Gala Main Event (prior to the After Party).

Yes, ample parking is available at the venue. Handicap parking is available at the venue as well.

Yes, there will be gourmet tastings and flights from top chefs, as well as a special event cocktail.

The menu for the evening does have some options for special diets.

  • Yes, guests are welcome. Please purchase additional tickets for each guest.
  • *Parents who would like to bring children to both events, contact us at development@elmshakespeare.org

The dress code for the after party is the same as the main event: your brightest and boldest cocktail attire, or what represents your cultural heritage.

You can participate in the silent auction by bidding online prior to the event and during the Gala.

For more information, you can contact us at development@elmshakespeare.org

Call for Volunteers

We need dedicated volunteers to help make the Tapestry Gala a success. Join our team and play a vital role in creating an unforgettable event.

Benefits of Volunteering

  1. Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Access: Gain an insider’s view of the event and meet the key players who make it happen.

  2. Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded individuals and leaders in the community.

  3. Support a Worthy Cause: Contribute to the success of Elm Shakespeare and its mission to enrich the community through the arts.