Academy of the Arts to host first fundraiser Friday

The Academy of the Arts will host its first fundraiser gala and concert Friday at North Central College.

The nonprofit academic and art school, projected to open in 2025, also announced that AARP will be the presenting sponsor of the event scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday at Wentz Concert Hall in Naperville.

Performers include Julia Murney, who appeared in "Wicked" on Broadway; Olympic gymnast and Broadway performer Cathy Rigby; and Arlington Heights native Karen Mason, who appeared in "Halston" on Netflix.

The Academy of the Arts hopes to raise $2 million in the first year of fundraising and plans to raise a total of $80 million for an arts center featuring a 1,200-seat auditorium, outdoor amphitheater, dance studios and classrooms.

Tickets cost $100 and include the concert, a cocktail hour, silent auction and reception. Tickets can be purchased at www.illinoisartsacademy.org/gala.