The McCallum Theatre’s annual gala, held Dec. 6 in Palm Desert, was a truly joyous affair. A rousing performance by Broadway legend Audra McDonald, accompanied by acclaimed musical director Rob Berman and a full orchestra, delighted the audience.
“This gala was so special,” said McCallum Theatre President, CEO and Artistic Director Mitch Gershenfeld. “We raised over $1.5 million, which help us support programs that advance educational opportunities for youth in our area and provide consistently high levels of entertainment and cultural programming. Not only did the incredible Audra McDonald perform, but we also honored an amazing woman, Rebecca Benaroya.”
It was a grand occasion to pay tribute to this special lady. Along with her late husband, Jack, Benaroya has devoted her life to supporting causes close to her heart. She is a recognized philanthropic leader and has changed the lives of those she’s touched.
The Benaroya family has helped transform many institutions, including Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the Tacoma Art Museum. Locally, they have supported Eisenhower Health, Jewish Federation, Jewish Family Service of the Desert and the McCallum.
“This theater is my happy place, and I’m honored to have supported it for so many years,” Benaroya said.
It has been a wonderful year for the McCallum. New Chairman of the Board Garry C. Kief said: “Guests want to return to the safe, clean, classic experience that we offer. They want to connect again. To laugh, cry, sing along and experience new art forms. The valley knows that the McCallum is its cultural heart.”
“We’ve expanded our calendar, with an earlier start date and programs through June,” Gershenfeld said. “We’re featuring more comedians, and those shows have proven to be very popular. Garry has been a real catalyst for these enhancements.”
The gala helps support many educational programs at the McCallum, including the Open Call Talent Project.
“Open Call gives our area’s up-and-coming artists the chance to perform and shine in front of an adoring, appreciative audience,” Gershenfeld said. “They participate in a truly professional production: the lighting, the sound, the formal stage presentation. It’s one of the most popular events we do.”
Six-time Tony Award-winner Audra McDonald put on a spectacular show. She opened with a crowd favorite, “I Am What I Am” from “La Cage aux Folles,” and balanced upbeat songs like “I Could Have Danced All Night” and “Cabaret” with more reflective pieces like Stephen Sondheim’s “Children Will Listen” and even Kermit the Frog’s “It’s Not Easy Bein’ Green.”
Erica Espinola of The Muses & Patroness Circle of the McCallum attended with friends who came to the theater for the first time.
“I love introducing our ‘jewel in the desert,’ Espinola said. “They were delighted and will be back soon.” About McDonald’s performance, she said: “Audra was on fire! She is a gifted storyteller, and her message of kindness was so personal. She really is the Queen of Broadway.”
Read an exclusive interview with Audra McDonald here.
Winter resident Carole Lieberman, who comes to the theater several times a season, said: “We just loved the performance. Audra’s theme of appreciation and thankfulness seems so appropriate in our troubled world.”
“We are so grateful to all who attended the McCallum gala,” Gershenfeld said. “This one jubilant night really helps the theater maintain a caliber of excellence throughout the year.”
McDonald seemed to agree, closing her set with “Happy Days Are Here Again.” The audience’s happiness was unmistakable.
The McCallum Theatre thanks those who contributed time and talent to produce the gala, including Kief, honorary chair and a gold circle sponsor; H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation, honorary co-chair and platinum circle sponsor; and gold circle sponsors Helene Galen and Jamie Kabler, Lisa Hofmann, Harold Matzner, The Thermal Club, Tower Markets, Twanna and Tim Rogers and Jan Salta.
Learn more about the McCallum Theatre at mccallumtheatre.org.
Sergio Garcia lives in Palm Springs and enjoys writing about the good people that do great things for our community. Contact him at [email protected].