Laguna Playhouse Raises Over $370K at 'Oh What A Night' Gala

LAGUNA BEACH, CA—And, scene! The Laguna Playhouse raised $370,000 at its annual gala on March 3 to support youth programs. The fundraiser, attended by local notables, also included some rare talent.

Funds raised will support Laguna Playhouse's Youth Theatre programs, funding for actors and designers for its live theatrical productions, and technical equipment required for both backstage and onstage, according to playhouse spokesperson David Elzer.

Artistic Director David Ellenstein welcomed the donors and their guests and provided an update on the Playhouse's renewed success, Elzer said. During the event, he also gave a sneak preview of the 2024-2025 season, which kicks off in September with the comedy hit "Don't Dress for Dinner."

"The guests were thrilled to be the first to know," Elzer said.

The season lineup was announced publicly on March 12, and 7-play subscriptions are now available. More information about the season and packages is available at lagunaplayhouse.com.

Entertainment for the night was star-studded, including appearances from Courter Simmons, Christopher Kale Jones, Shonn Wiley, and Ryan Williams from The Broadway. The Chicago and Los Angeles companies of the Broadway musical "Jersey Boys" also performed, Elzer said. The stars combined their talent to perform several hit songs, including "Sherry," "Walk Like a Man," and "Can't Take My Eyes Off You," adding signature dance moves and famed 60s-era harmonies.

Also, at the gala, cast members from the Laguna Playhouse Youth Conservatory displayed their talents by presenting a montage of Broadway songs from their upcoming production of The Addams Family, which will perform at the Playhouse from May 10 to 12.

Artistic Director David Ellenstein discussed the night. "What a fantastic evening filled with good feelings, wonderful spirits, and great entertainment!" Ellenstein said. "It was a night to celebrate Laguna Playhouse, and the energy at the Playhouse was high as our loyal patrons and donors joined together in supporting live theatre in Laguna Beach."

The Board of Trustees Co-Chair Lisa Hale shared her thoughts on the fundraiser and what it means to the Laguna Beach theater community.

"This annual fundraiser supports our extraordinary work with young people in Laguna Beach and Orange County, as well as the great theatre we produce on our stage," Hale said. "The success of the evening is evident when we witness year-round how live theatre engages people of all ages and proves that theatre matters to everyone."

For more information on all shows and programming, visit www.lagunaplayhouse.com. The Playhouse is located at 606 Laguna Canyon Road in Laguna Beach.