A beautiful summer evening was the backdrop for the Whidbey Island Center for the Arts (WICA) 28th annual fundraiser. Bringing together the island’s most dedicated patrons for the SHINE Gala, the September 9 event was a night to remember and an opportunity to support the work WICA does in the arts community.
Held at WICA’s iconic campus in Langley, Washington—located on picturesque Whidbey Island—gala guests were treated to an evening of island elegance. Rich tones of champagne and copper transformed WICA’s interior and exterior spaces, with disco balls catching the light and beautiful floral arrangements drawing guests in.
“The 2023 gala theme SHINE was partly inspired by our Executive Artistic Director Deana Duncan’s vision of WICA being a beacon of light for our community. Lighting the way through the arts,” says Louis Muniz, board member and gala co-chair. “It was also a concept that came from looking through the long history of WICA, from its founding members to present. It started as a diamond in the rough and over time, we as a community have nurtured and polished this stone to uncover a gem that truly shines bright like a diamond.”
Beginning at 5:00 p.m., attendees mingled over creative hors d’oeuvres and specialty beverages provided by Freeland’s Fare Market. Under the organization’s beautiful white canopy—which has become synonymous with community gatherings—participants took part in a silent auction that featured everything from sports memorabilia to jewelry. While listening to local musical talent Philip Van Seters, patrons enjoyed a warm evening set against the backdrop of WICA’s Zech Hall outdoor stage. At 6:45, attendees moved to WICA’s Cabaret Mainstage, where from the comfort of WICA’s intimate theatre seating, guests enjoyed a live auction and a raise the paddle donation opportunity, with all proceeds supporting the nonprofit’s next season.
“The evening raised over $230,000 for WICA,” says Executive Artistic Director Deana Duncan. “Because of this, we can continue to enrich lives through powerful shared experiences in the arts. We are feeling the generosity of spirit and support across the entire organization. To our community, please accept our heartfelt thank you! We hope to see you at the theatre soon.”
As WICA begins preparations for its next season, the funds raised at this annual event serve as a reminder of the community’s support for the arts organization and its impactful mission on Whidbey Island.