25 years ago a group of enthusiastic patrons and caring professors created a one-night extravaganza to raise scholarship money by showing off the premier talents of the College of Performing and Visual Arts students. Because of the incredible abilities of those students, that first Gala evening was a great success. It has continued to be one of UNC’s most popular annual events to this day. We invite you to join us as we celebrate this 25-year tradition of entertainment and generosity.

The Gala performance has evolved its own unique style over the years. It’s fun, it’s funny, and there are moments that will move you. It is always immensely entertaining. The Gala one-night arts festival begins with a gallery show and reception, followed by an exciting show of music, theatre and dance that is sure to please audience members of all ages.

Your Gala hosts, the Community Advisory Board for the Performing and Visual Arts, are today’s group of enthusiastic patrons. This group of volunteers works 12 months a year to ensure the financial success of the event. They encourage you to support the Gala with a sponsor’s level contribution. All proceeds benefit the College of Performing and Visual Arts Scholarship Fund.

Won’t you come and be a part of the festivities as we celebrate
25 years of student excellence?

The current PVA Gala began in 1982 as a benefit for the performing and visual arts scholarship fund. The event is held annually on the second Saturday evening in February.

Last year more than 1500 patrons enjoyed the artistry of more than 420 performers from the School of Music and the Department of Theatre and Dance, and viewed the art work of selected students from the Department of Visual Arts.

The UNC Gala has evolved its own style over the years - a little parody, a little spoof, a lot of exceptionally fine music, dancing and acting. If you enjoy an evening of pure entertainment that includes everything from musical theatre and jazz to the incredible sound of more than 400 musicians performing a classic finale that brings down the house, then our annual Gala evening is for you!

We are extremely proud of our student artists and performers and look forward to this annual opportunity to share their premier talents. All proceeds benefit the UNC Performing and Visual Arts Scholarship Fund.

Each Gala begins with a reception in Tointon Gallery where selected Visual Arts students are showing their work. Following the performance, members of the Community Advisory Board host an elegant champagne and dessert reception for the Gala Sponsors.