(MADISON, NJ) -- The South Orange Performing Arts Center would like to thank everyone who participated in the SOPAC Gala on November 6, 2021 held at Drew University. SOPAC’s supportive community attended this soiree at Drew University or participated virtually at home. Some of the most memorable parts of the evening were paying tribute to honoree, Diana Hart, and presenting the SOPAC Lifetime Achievement Award to Grammy-winning producer and Jazz legend John Lee. Following the awards presentation, Great American Songbook Ambassador Michael Feinstein performed.
The Gala netted about $60,000 for the evening, which will be used towards Hurricane Ida recovery efforts and helping to ensure SOPAC is better prepared to prevent damage like this in the future.
The SOPAC Gala 2021 Facebook photo album has plenty of shots from throughout the night. The digital program may be viewed as well. Donations can be made at any time online or by calling (973) 712-4102.
Since 2006, SOPAC has been serving as a premier performing arts center in the region. SOPAC offers innovative artistic and cultural experiences for diverse audiences in an intimate, inviting environment. The arts center hosts a variety of live performances, community events and education programs for all ages. SOPAC is home for Seton Hall University Arts Council’s performances, including the Classical Concert Series, Jazz ‘N the Hall performances and Seton Hall University Theatre productions. SOPAC programs are made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Arts and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. The South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
All photos taken by Photography By Piernot. (TOP) SOPAC Executive Director Dee Billia and SOPAC Board of Governors Chair Paul Bartick (MIDDLE) SOPAC Gala 2021 Honoree Diana Hart of Diana Hart Catering and SOPAC Gala 2021 Lifetime Achievement Awardee John Lee, a Grammy-winning producer and Jazz legend (BOTTOM) SOPAC Board of Governors member Claudine Baptiste, the Business Development Officer at the South Orange BCB Community Bank—a SOPAC Major Funder.
