The International Festival of Arts & Ideas is the only performing arts festival of its kind, featuring art, life-changing ideas, and great community, with more than 85% of its events available for free. This fall we are kicking off our 30th Anniversary year at our annual fundraising gala on Friday, September 6, 2024, at the New Haven Lawn Club located at 193 Whitney Avenue in New Haven, CT.
Can't make it? Invest in the next 30 years of Arts & Ideas by making a donation HERE.
Cirque du Célébration: An Arts & Ideas Gala
Gala Co-Chairs
Deborah Dyett Desir, M.D.
Kim Healey
Gala Committee
Maritza Bond
Lisa Brandes
Thomas Griggs Jr.
Risë Nelson
Kimberly R. Pedrick
Barbara Rockenbach
Joe Rodriguez
Constance L. Royster
Charles E. Warner Jr.
Gala Supporters
Janet and Christopher Arterton
William Aseltyne
Judy and Steve August
Guido and Anne Tyler Calabresi
Linda & Mark Caplan
Elsie Chapman
Alexander Clark & Kimberly R. Pedrick
Claire's Corner Copia
Gary Desir & Deborah Dyett Desir
Jody Ellant
ForGood Fund
Gordon and Shelley Geballe
Penn and Diane Holsenbeck
Pat Hall Jaynes and Gerald Jaynes
Jewish Foundation of Greater New Haven
Bonnie Becker and John Krystal
Ruby Melton and Gail McAvay
Roslyn Milstein Meyer and Jerome Meyer
Michael Morand and Frank Mitchell
David I. Newton and Ilene Cooke
Betsy Sledge
Alinor Sterling and Steve Mentz
Abigail Roth & R. Lee Stump
Christopher Texeira and Phyllis Cummings-Texeira
RUN OF SHOW
Check-in and Cocktail Hour begin at 5:30pm featuring Anne Cubberly’s Giant Puppets, a Wine Pull, DJ Too Much, a fabulous silent auction, and wandering Air Temple Arts performers. In lieu of tickets, names will be on a guest list at the door.
Dinner will begin at 7:00pm. With live music from the Bossa Nova Project and an exciting Paddle Raise!
Desserts & Dancing start at 8:30pm with sweet treats and dancing beats to end the night.
*THERE IS FREE ON-SITE PARKING AVAILABLE AT THE VENUE*
ENTERTAINMENT
Anne Cubberly's Giant Puppets
Experience the whimsical magic of Anne Cubberly’s Giant Puppets as they roam the New Haven Lawn Club! These colossal, colorful creations are more than just puppets—they’re vibrant reflections of our essence and the boundless spirit within us all.
The Bossa Nova Project
The Bossa Nova Project was founded by Brazilian singer-songwriter/pianist, Isabella Mendes, with the intent to bring people together to share happiness through music. The project was inspired by the original Bossa Nova movement which took place during the Brazilian "Golden Era" in the 60’s, when Brazil was booming, culturally, socially and economically.
Air Temple Arts
Air Temple Arts is Connecticut’s premiere aerial dance and circus facility, founded in 2013 by Stacey Strange. Currently residing in Woodbridge, Air Temple's mission is to help students foster strength and self-esteem, and unlock the ability to use their physicality to interact creatively with the world.
Joe Rodriguez as Emcee
Joe Rodriguez has had a long career of public and community service in Greater New Haven and beyond. As State Deputy Director for Sen. Richard Blumenthal, he works with a broad range of residents, community and advocacy groups and municipal leaders. He is also president and co-founder of Puerto Ricans United (PRU), which revived New Haven's Puerto Rican Day Festival after a 10-year absence.
DJ Too Much
DJ Too Much is a female DJ and has DJ’d events nationally and internationally. Having a strong love and passion for music, and love entertaining the masses, she started DJing when she was only seventeen years old. Too Much used her high school graduation gift money as her original investment to purchase her first set of DJ equipment. She had no idea what she was doing, but somehow gained the motivation and persistence to teach herself, make mistakes and learn!
SILENT AUCTION ITEMS
One Night Getaway With Breakfast For Two at the Manor House Inn
Silent Auction Item
A romantic getaway in Litchfield Hills includes overnight accommodations in a premier suite, along with a two-course gourmet breakfast for two in the morning. The Manor House Inn is a perfect location to rest, reflect, and reconnect amidst the forests, fields, and foothills of the Berkshires, near breweries, wineries, hiking, biking, and more.
One Week Stay at Private Residence in Martha’s Vineyard
Silent Auction Item
Experience the charm and beauty of Martha’s Vineyard with an exclusive one-week stay at a private residence. Whether you’re looking to unwind on pristine beaches, explore quaint towns, or enjoy world-class dining, this is your chance to create unforgettable, lasting memories.
Avelo Flight Vouchers
Silent Auction Item
Get ready to take off on your next adventure with this exclusive Avelo flight voucher, perfect for a couple’s getaway or a travel companion! This package includes two round-trip flights to any ofAvelos destinations. You’ll enjoy the ease and comfort of priority boarding, allowing you to skip the lines and settle in quickly. Traveling will be a breeze with one carry-on and one checked bag per passenger, no need to worry about packing light! Plus, you’ll receive a seat assignment credit of up to $20 per passenger, ensuring you get the perfect spot on the plane.
New Haven Delights: A Local Sampling
Silent Auction Item
Celebrate the rich history and unique flavors of New Haven with this thoughtfully curated gift basket, perfect for lovers of culture and local charm. This basket brings the best of Dwell and Idiom right to your doorstep, offering a selection of hand-picked treasures that capture the essence of New Haven.
Narrative Drawing Workshop With Muralist Maria De Los Angeles
Silent Auction Item
Explore narrative drawing through a workshop with artist Maria De Los Angeles, a faculty critic for the Painting and Printmaking Program at the Yale School of Art. This workshop will spark your imagination, refine your observation, and capture the movements around you.
Discover New Haven: Walking Tour Voucher
Silent Auction Item
Explore the rich history, culture, and culinary delights of New Haven with an exclusive credit, redeemable for any of the walking tours offered by Taste of New Haven. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply curious about the city’s hidden gems, these tours provide a unique and engaging way to experience New Haven. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll enjoy fascinating stories and delicious tastings from some of the best local spots. Perfect for both residents and visitors alike, this voucher offers a memorable journey through one of Connecticut’s most vibrant cities.
Craft Beer Bonanza: A Selection from Local Breweries
Calling all craft beer enthusiasts! This exclusive package offers a curated selection of beers from some of our favorite local breweries. Handpicked from this summer’s festival, this collection includes a varety of styles, from crisp lagers and refreshing ales to bold stouts and IPAs. Whether you’re looking to stock your fridge or share with friends, this package is sure to satisfy any beer lover’s palate. Perfect for your next gathering or a cozy night in, this is your chance to enjoy the best brews our community has to offer.
Bubbles & Bliss: A Sparkling Wine Selection
Silent Auction Item
Elevate your celebrations with this luxurious selection of sparkling wines, featuring the exquisite bubble varieties from Freixenet. Perfect for toasting special occasions or simply enjoying a glass with friends, this package offers sparkling wines that are sure to impress. From crisp and refreshing flavors to rich, elegant notes. Whether you are hosting a dinner party, marking a milestone, or just savoring a quiet evening, this collection brings the sparkle to any moment!
