Gala 2026

We invite you to dance with us at Shakespeare & Company's Annual Gala on Friday, June 26! Each year, we gather together to celebrate the new season and champion the company and our work. This year's Gala marks a significant moment for the company-our first season without our founder, Tina Packer, who passed away in January. As we reflect on her storied life and indomitable spirit with reverence, we also set our sights on the future with energy and resolve. This Gala is an opportunity to come together, and to help secure a future where her vision continues to thrive through the work she set in motion. The evening begins at 4:30 pm with cocktails under the festive Tina Packer Tents, followed bya special performancetributein the Tina Packer Playhouse, dinner by Peter Platt of The Old Inn on the Green in the elegant Rose Meadow Tent, and dancing beneath the stars.Additionaldetails, including this year's special guests, will be announced soon. Proceeds benefit Shakespeare & Company‘s Center for Actor Training, Education Program, and Performances. For more information, write to Director of Development Sunie Gorey at sgorey@shakespeare.org , or call 413.637.1199 ext.180. As a Gala benefactor, you will be recognized in our print and digital Gala materials, including the Commemorative Gala Program, and you and your guests will receive priority seating for both the performance and dinner. Seating is limited, and the Gala traditionally sells out. Did You Know? Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) are a wonderful, tax-smart way to support Shakespeare & Company. For our Gala, DAF grants can be directed toward the Paddle Raise or given as a fully charitable donation. Because of IRS rules, DAF grants cannot be used topurchasetickets or tables or to pay for anyportionthat provides a benefit (like event attendanceormeals). DAF gifts must be entirely charitable and cannot provide more than an incidental benefit-directly or indirectly-to the donor or their guests. The prohibition on indirect benefitsalso means DAF grantsgenerally can'tbe used for the "charitable portion" of a ticket even if you pay the benefits portion separately, also known as a "bifurcated payment." IRS Notice 2017-73, Section 3 covers this in more detail. Ifyou'reconsidering using a DAF and have questions about how to structure your support, ourDevelopmentteam is always happy to help. "We are born to do benefits" - Timon of Athens, Act I, sc. 2