More than 300 attend annual gala for Metropolis

Excitement was in the air at the 18th annual gala to benefit the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre in Arlington Heights, and it was not just the paparazzi that greeted guests on the red carpet.

More than 300 people attended - including village leaders, sponsors, donors and patrons - drawing Metropolis officials to move their biggest fundraiser to a larger venue: Arlington International Racecourse, and its expansive clubhouse.

Guests climbed the grand staircase to find an elaborate array of silent auction items. Next, they proceeded into the dining area, which included a stage for the night's entertainment.

"Attendance tonight is up nearly 15 percent from last year," said Joe Keefe, executive director, "and that reflects our attendance over the last four years at the theater, which is up nearly 35 percent."

Arlington Heights Mayor Tom Hayes called the Metropolis a great community partner that makes the village stand out.

"The Metropolis makes such a positive impact on our community, both directly and indirectly," Hayes said, "that we want to do all that we can as a village to support it."

A highlight of the evening was the theater's Spotlight Award, which was presented to Arlington Heights attorney George Drost and his wife, Beth. The couple was honored for their volunteer work in the community as well as their sponsorship of cultural programs at the theater.

"We live in a world with ragged edges," Beth Drost said. "When you find a place that brings you joy and inspiration and even some peace, it's worth supporting."

Not surprisingly, a fundraiser for a performing arts center featured lots of live performances, including Broadway tunes from singer Michael Ingersoll and his wife, Angela, as well as students in the theater's School of the Performing Arts.

Guests also got a sneak peek at the theater's upcoming show, "Avenue Q," as well as selections from its next subscription series, which includes "Chorus Line," "Mousetrap," "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" and "The Buddy Holly Story."

"This is such a great night for Metropolis," said board member Allison Orr of Glendale Heights. "It's one night that people can come out and support the performing arts."

At the heart of the event was providing more access to live theater for students. A special fund-a-cause this year gave patrons the chance to donate outright to the theater's popular Stories in Action series.

These theatrical productions for students are coordinated with reading curriculum from middle school studies. Officials said these shows draw more than 10,000 students to the theater each year, from across Chicago and the suburbs.