YoungArts Gala Raises More Than $550 Thousand

Miami’s philanthropic power players gathered recently for the annual An Affair of the Arts Performance and Gala, in support of YoungArts, the core program of the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts (NFAA). The event brought together the nation’s finest young artists, the patrons who support them and a cache of celebrities at the Gusman Center for the Performing Arts and the Alfred I. Dupont Building. The gala raised more than $550 thousand to support student artists. The theme of this year’s gala was Downtown Deco. SunTrust Bank was the Title Presenting Sponsor and chairing the event were prominent Miami arts philanthropists Mary and Howard Frank.

The party began with street performances by the 2010 YoungArts finalists and was followed by a dazzling show at the Gusman Center by select YoungArts Alumni, including famed dancer and choreographer Desmond Richardson. Richardson was a 1986 YoungArts winner in Modern Dance and a Presidential Scholar in the Arts. He has been hailed by the New York Times as one of the greatest dancers and choreographers of our time, and his performance proved this to be true. Following the performance was a cocktail reception, specialty wine silent auction, and a drawing featuring a dazzling variety of luxury items and experiences. During the reception, guests were surrounded by vignettes with incredible performances by the 2010 YoungArts finalists.

A special tribute to Desmond Richardson, recipient of the YoungArts Alumni Award, and distinguished actress and director Liv Ullmann, the recipient of this year’s prestigious Arison Award, was the highlight of the evening. YoungArts also honored the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, and its President and CEO Alberto Ibargüen for its distinguished leadership and unwavering commitment to supporting the arts and its commitment to Miami.

Funds raised will support YoungArts programming on both a regional and national level.