Spoleto Festival USA 2024 Opening Gala

On Thursday, May 23, 2024, Spoleto Festival USA’s Opening Gala was held in the heart of the holy city. The event was a whirlwind of elegance, artistry, and community spirit.

Martini bar provided by Tito’s Handmade Vodka

Gala Co-chairs Robyn Coles, Nicole Rubin, and Charles Tolbert joined by Spoleto Festival USA Board Chair Alicia Gregory and Spoleto Festival USA General Director and CEO Mena Mark Hanna

Guests donned their best creative black-tie attire.

Spoleto Board of Directors Emerita Member, Kathleen Rivers Carroll and Bob Carroll

Spoleto Board of Directors Chair Emeritus Member, Bill Hewitt, joined by Karyn Lee and friends.

Gala Co-chair and Spoleto Board of Directors Member, Charles Tolbert, joined by Jonathan Green, Sarah Moriarty, and friends.

Spoleto Board of Directors Member, Russell Holliday and Hal Cottingham

Gala Co-Chair and Spoleto Board of Directors Member, Nicole Rubin (third from the left), with her guests, including Dr. Mary Thornley.

Emceed by the ever-charming Denis O’Hare, the gala was a chance to rub shoulders with some of the season’s brightest talents. Guests mingled with festival performers including O’Hare and John Cameron Mitchell, getting a taste of the artistic smorgasbord that awaited them over the coming 17 days.

Gala Host, Denis O’Hare

Spoleto 2024 performer, John Cameron Mitchell, and Gala Host, Denis O’Hare

Spoleto 2024 performer, John Cameron Mitchell and Gala Host, Denis O’Hare

Members of the Spoleto Festival USA Chorus performed.

Members of Spoleto Festival USA Chorus

The evening’s events included cocktails, dinner, and live and silent auctions, offering patrons the chance to bid on unique experiences and one-of-a-kind collectibles. Spoleto Board of Directors Member, Doug Warner was the evening’s auctioneer.

Spoleto Board of Directors Member, Doug Warner

General Director & CEO, Mena Mark Hanna congratulates auction winner, Spoleto Board of Directors Member, Anne Perper and her husband Scott.

Guests cheer the auction on!

Brenda Lauderback explores the live auction lots on display during the reception portion of the evening.

More than just a fundraiser, the Opening Gala is a celebration of Charleston itself. It’s a night where the city’s rich cultural heritage meets the vibrant energy of the Festival, creating an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and welcoming.