Arts Orillia is bringing back its signature fundraising gala this spring, returning to the Orillia Opera House for an evening the organization says will put youth creativity front and centre.
Showcase 2026, themed "A Night to Ignite the Arts," is scheduled for April 24 at the historic Gordon Lightfoot Stage of the Orillia Opera House. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $175, with tables of eight available for $1,300.
According to a news release from Arts Orillia, last year's debut sold out, and the event has since become one of the region's most anticipated cultural gatherings. Guests will once again be seated onstage for a dining and performance experience offering an up-close look at the creative process.
The gala raises money for Arts Orillia's youth programs, which the organization says reached more than 1,000 young people across Simcoe County last year through workshops, festivals, performances and free after-school digital arts programming. The group says many of those participants would not otherwise have access to such experiences.
"Our programs give young people a place to feel seen, supported, and inspired," says Kate Hilliard, Artistic Director. "When a Grade 6 student tells us, 'Arts Orillia puts people on stage who look like me—no one else does that here,' we are reminded of why this work matters."
Arts Orillia says arts engagement is linked to stronger mental health, social connection, resilience, empathy and academic performance, and that those benefits matter most for youth facing barriers to participation. The organization delivers its programming through partnerships with schools, Indigenous communities and local artists to keep the arts accessible across the region.
"Supporting Showcase means supporting the next generation of thinkers, makers, storytellers, and leaders," the organization says in the release. "It means saying yes to creativity, belonging, and opportunity for every young person."
Sponsorship packages range from $500 to $5,000, with top tiers including brand visibility, on-stage recognition and a custom "Why We Support the Arts" spotlight. Arts Orillia is recognizing a list of partners supporting this year's event, including BMO Nesbitt Burns|Mayo, Marck, Wilson Wealth Management, McLean & Dickey Insurance, Harvey's Orillia, HGR Graham Partners LLP, North Simcoe Life and The OtherHalf Consultants Inc.
Tickets and sponsorships are available through Arts Orillia's website at artsorillia.ca/supportus. The organization can also be reached by email at its listed contact address or by phone at 705-716-8177.
Arts Orillia describes its mission as delivering arts education, cultural programming and mentorship for youth across Simcoe County, with the goal of building what it calls a vibrant, inclusive arts ecosystem in the region.
