(CAPE MAY, NJ) -- Cape May's award-winning, Equity professional East Lynne Theater Company – now in its 45th year – will host a night of elegance, entertainment and generosity at its annual fundraising gala, held this year at La Mer Beachfront Resort's The Pier House, owned by longtime Cape May residents the Andy family, on Saturday, September 20, 2025.
The gala’s theme, “There’s No Biz Like Showbiz,” sets the stage for an exceptional evening at The Pier House, one of Cape May’s most esteemed beachfront dining establishments. The event promises a memorable celebration that unites the community in support of this vital local nonprofit. Attendees will be treated to a gourmet dinner on the restaurant’s stunning terrace and expertly prepared dishes by The Pier House’s award-winning chef, Les Bender, complemented by live performances from acclaimed vocalist Paula Johns and the dynamic sounds of DJ Ed McDonough, who will blend timeless classics with contemporary favorites.
“This is a great gift to East Lynne,” said Board President Susan Tischler of La Mer’s contribution to the event. “The Andy family has always been incredible supporters of our theater company and we could not be more grateful and excited to have our annual gala at The Pier House.”
A prime example of the Andy family’s continued largesse was a significant donation last year to name the stage at the new Clemans Theater for the Arts at the Allen AME Church after their late father, Gus Andy, a prominent Cape May businessman with a deep devotion to East Lynne.
“We are truly honored and delighted to host East Lynne Theater Company’s gala at The Pier House,” said George Andy, managing partner of La Mer Beachfront Resort. “The arts and this community were deeply important to my father, Gus Andy, and East Lynne Theater Company has always held a special place in his heart. It means a great deal to our family to continue supporting a cause that celebrates creativity and brings people together.”
Proceeds from the evening will directly support East Lynne Theater Company’s operating budget.
“We are excited to gather with our longtime and recent supporters to celebrate the transformative impact the arts can have,” said East Lynne’s Executive Director Mark David Boberick. “This gala is not only a celebration, but an opportunity to raise crucial funds for our theater company, to help us become South Jersey’s premier arts organization.”
The event, which takes place 6:00pm-10:00pm on Saturday, September 20, will also feature a live auction, raffle prizes, and dancing under the stars. Festive cocktail attire is preferred. Tickets are $175 per person. The Pier House is located at 1317 Beach Ave. in Cape May, CapeMayLaMer.com.
Founded in 1980, East Lynne Theater Company has been named by The New York Times as one of the Top 75 summer theaters in North America and recognized by the New Jersey Senate and General Assembly as “one of the state’s most important cultural treasures.” In 2023, understanding that the American Theater is itself a growing work of art, East Lynne expanded its mission to “present and preserve America’s theatrical heritage” by including plays about America today. As of 2025, East Lynne, which is currently housed in Cape May Presbyterian Church, continues to raise funds in its Capital Campaign to renovate its new home, the Clemans Theater for the Arts at Allen AME Church. As the company expands into the Clemans Theater, so does its calendar, which will offer year-round entertainment that includes plays and performances from worldwide writers, actors, musicians, and more.
