FLT Gala: Roll the dice for a good cause

The Florence Little Theatre will play host to its annual Endowment Gala on Saturday in the new theater lobby and rehearsal hall. In accordance with the Monte Carlo theme, guests will be able to play blackjack, craps, and poker, while bidding on elaborate auction items and raffle packages contributed by local business.

The idea for Monte Carlo Night came three years ago.

“Because we were moving into the new facility, we kept putting it on hold and finally decided we would do it this year,” said FLT executive director Sue Schatz.

Schatz encouraged people to attend the Monte Carlo night because “it’s a fundraiser for the theater and it will help us bring new programming to the theater. It’s going to be a fun-filled evening that I think people will enjoy coming to.”

The Endowment Gala is the theater’s annual fundraiser and proceeds from this event will ensure the long-term stability and operational viability of the new theater facility. It will also allow the permit financial freedom to provide programs and performances for school children and others whom might not otherwise experience live theater.

The dress for the gala is cocktail attire. Admission, which is $125 per person, will include heavy hors d’oeuvres, an open bar and “funny money” to play games. Auction items available for bid include spa packages, restaurant packages, jewelry, trips and artwork.

Music will be provided by jazz/blues group Two’s Company.

Florence Little Theatre exists to serve the community with a goal of offering cultural experiences for everyone in the Pee Dee, whether through performing, volunteering, or attending a performance. The endowment goal for the new facility is $1,000,000 and with the community’s help, that goal can be achieved, organizers said.

n WHAT: Florence Little Theatre Endowment Gala and Monte Carlo Night
n WHEN: 7 p.m. Jan. 31
n WHERE: Florence Little Theatre, located at 417 S. Dargan St., in Florence
n ADMISSION: $125 a person
n INFO: (843) 662-3731