The evening wasn’t so much
“Laughter in the Rain,” as it was sunny
songs throughout the evening. That’s what
the members discovered during the recent
annual dinner honoring Kravis Center
Founders and Grand Sponsors, Sponsors and
Patron Members of the Dress Circle.
On Friday, March 30th, more than 200 members
and guests attended the fun-filled event
that began with a cocktail reception in the
Harris Pre-Function Hall, followed by a
scrumptious three-course dinner in the
Weiner Banquet Center’s Gimelstob Ballroom.
Northern Trust, which has supported every
one of the Kravis Center’s fundraising
efforts since the original building campaign
in 1992, was once again the sponsor for this
very special evening.
In fact, William A. Meyer, the Kravis
Center’s Chairman of the Board, gave special
thanks to Michael Bracci, president of
Northern Trust, for the financial
institution’s longtime support of the
performing arts center.
Mr. Meyer thanked the members for their
continued support and investment in the
Kravis Center’s mission of ensuring that
audiences will enjoy “the world’s finest
performers in a venue truly worthy of their
talents.”
Describing the Kravis Center
as “a unique landmark that is a source of
tremendous pride for all of Palm Beach
County,” Meyer reminded attendees that
ticket sales and other earned income cover
only 82 percent of the Kravis Center’s
operating expenses. The other 18 percent
needs to be raised each year through
contributions from individuals, corporations
and foundation grants.
Mr. Meyer then emphasized the significant
role played by Dress Circle members. While
the Kravis Center has 6,700 annual members
who collectively contribute $4.2 million, 57
percent of this total – or $2.4 million –
came from only 132 donors.
This special evening was capped with a
performance by master showman, singer and
songwriter Neil Sedaka in the Dreyfoos
Concert Hall.
One of Rock and Roll's legendary icons,
Sedaka wowed the crowd with his string of
hits, “Calendar Girl,” “Breaking Up Is Hard
To Do” and “Laughter In The Rain.” His
performance was generously sponsored by Alec
& Sheila Engelstein and Zelda & Allen Mason.
To become a Kravis Center donor, please call
561-651-4320 or visit
www.kravis.org/membership .