Eat, drink, dance and play at à la cARTe! A night of music, food and fun
We sat down with Emily Ponkratz, who is leading the planning for à la cARTe!, a one-of-a-kind fundraising event taking place on Friday, October 3 at your Fox Cities Performing Arts Center. Emily shared what makes the evening so special, “à la cARTe! is designed to be both fun and impactful,” she says. Unlike traditional galas, this interactive event allows attendees to create their own experience by exploring performances, activities and culinary delights across the spaces of the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center.
Guests will roam through the Kimberly-Clark Theater, Thrivent Plaza, backstage hallways, dressing rooms, the loading dock, and even on stage in Thrivent Hall. Performances range from big band jazz to bluegrass and pop-orchestra arrangements. The Joseph Huber Band will perform outside on Thrivent Plaza and the Cornerstone Jazz Orchestra will bring The Great Gatsby era to life for swing dancing. Emily highlights one of the most exciting parts of the evening: Broadway Karaoke, where attendees can take the mic and perform for a cheering crowd with emcee Otis Day from 95.9 KISS FM.
The idea for à la cARTe! grew from the Center’s desire to expand its annual fundraising efforts. “Collaboration and partnership are key. We work with multiple departments and community partners to ensure every space and activity is engaging and welcoming,” Emily explains. Guests will enjoy live performances and tastings, while supporting the Center through interactive activities like the Wine Pull, Spin It to Win It, raffles, and Broadway Karaoke. Every contribution directly supports Center programs that bring the arts to life for all in the community.
Food and beverages add to the experience, with complimentary mocktails and light bites from local restaurants, plus access to food trucks on Thrivent Plaza and a cash bar. VIP and Premium ticketholders enjoy open bar service. Interactive activities will give guests a fun way to support the Center while taking home prizes from gift cards to local restaurants, tickets to local attractions, and even a $1,000 Appleton International Airport flight voucher.
Funds raised through à la cARTe! directly support programs like the Amcor Education Series, Center Stage High School Musical Theater program, and accessibility initiatives such as ASL interpreted performances and sensory-friendly resources. à la cARTe! is more than a fundraiser, it’s a celebration of creativity, community and connection.
Check the à la cARTe! webpage to purchase tickets for a truly unforgettable night at the Center.