Danny Scheie to Host Berkeley Rep's OVATION Gala

On April 20, Berkeley Repertory Theatre invites guests to "don their bowties, boas, and bling for the grandest, funniest, and most delicious party of the year. Join Danny Scheie - the Bay Area's prince of comedy - for OVATION, a night of delectable food, fine wine, and extravagant revelry to celebrate The Neighborhood Playhouse with an international reputation."

OVATION described as is an epicurean extravaganza where theatre lovers, gourmands, and philanthropists gather to party for a cause. Everyone knows that Berkeley Rep launches innovative shows for the Bay Area and beyond - but most people don't realize that the Tony Award-winning nonprofit earns only half its income through ticket sales. This gala helps make up the difference, ensuring that audiences continue to experience the artistic excellence they've come to expect.

"The gala is critical to the Theatre's well-being," says Artistic Director Tony Taccone, "and it's also a great party. Having Danny Scheie as our MC should be great fun, and the food and wine will amaze you. Whether you come because you believe in the importance of the arts in our society and the impact of arts education on our future - or just for an excuse to dress up and celebrate - you'll have a fantastic time while supporting a good cause."

Get a ticket - or an entire table - for OVATION. Feast on a four-star meal prepared by the executive chef of the Four Seasons San Francisco, Mark Richardson, and overseen by food connoisseur and radio personality Narsai David. Dive into an exciting auction led by DawnMarie Kotsonis, the expert auctioneer and professional clown who has been featured in the Los Angeles Times, San Francisco Chronicle, and Wine Spectator. Win collectable wines and gift certificates for elegant hotels, restaurants, and arts organizations - or go home with exclusive access to incredible adventures like a trip to the misty mountains of Machu Picchu or two tickets to Elton John's legendary Oscar Party. And laugh all evening at the hilarious remarks of Danny Scheie, whose work at Berkeley Rep has been called "comic genius" and "a tour de force of murderously comic, canny and catty derangement" by the San Francisco Chronicle.

OVATION features exquisite wines from Donkey and Goat Winery, Match Vineyards, Quady Winery, Raymond Vineyards, Domaine Carneros by Taittinger, and Wente Vineyards - as well as fine spirits courtesy of Distillery No. 209 and St. George Spirits. Guests will take home delicious delicacies, thanks to Guittard Chocolate Company, IZZE Sparkling Juice Company, Peet's Coffee & Tea, Semifreddi's, and Somersault Snack Co. They'll also receive special gifts from Algenist, Dolphin Graphics, EO Products, and Fossil, which has a long history of supporting Berkeley Rep.

OVATION is made possible by seven Spotlight Sponsors: Chevron, Jill and Steve Fugaro, Meyer Sound, Osterweis Capital Management, Marjorie Randolph, the Roda Group, and Jean and Michael Strunksy. Led by Jill Fugaro and Jean Strunsky, the planning committee for the event includes Blair Buster, Martha Ehmann Conte, Daniel David, Thalia Dorwick, Rich and Robin Edwards, Scott Haber, Diane Manley, Pamela Nichter, Marjorie Randolph, and Felicia Woytak.

Tickets for OVATION begin at $500. Tables are priced between $5,000 and $20,000. All proceeds from the event support the nonprofit Berkeley Repertory Theatre and the organization's education and outreach programs. For more information, contact Lily Yang at (510) 647-2909 or lyang@berkeleyrep.org - or simply click berkeleyrep.org/ovation.