2024 On Site Opera Gala at The Edison Ballroom
The 2024 On Site Opera Gala took place on October 9 at the iconic Edison Ballroom in New York City, where attendees were invited to step back into the 1920s in an evening inspired by The Threepenny Opera. This immersive gala, featuring the music of Kurt Weill and the sharp social commentary of the libretto by Bertolt Brecht, transformed the ballroom into a space where high society met the underworld in a blend of drama, music, and vintage decadence. The evening was filled with performances that celebrated Weill’s haunting melodies, creating an atmosphere that blurred the lines between performance and experience.
The gala highlighted both musical and theatrical elements, featuring well-loved characters such as Mack the Knife, Jenny Diver, and Polly Peachum, portrayed by talented artists Michael Kuhn, Chrystal E. Williams, and Melissa Wimbish, respectively, as well as musical accompaniment by Jason Wirth on piano and Ben Rosenblum playing the accordion. With artistic direction from Sarah Meyers, choreography by Sara Erde, and narration by Geoffrey McDonald, the performances brought The Threepenny Opera's timeless themes to life for a modern audience. Attendees were immersed in a world of intrigue, with period-inspired attire, classic cocktails, and the Edison Ballroom’s rich art-deco ambiance enhancing the 1920s theme.
In addition to the entertainment, the gala served as a fundraiser for On Site Opera’s upcoming productions and community initiatives. This annual event plays a significant role in supporting the company’s mission to make opera more accessible across New York City. For more details on the gala and upcoming events, visit On Site Opera's official page.
If you're planning an event (especially one with music!) and want every moment beautifully documented, visit my portfolio at danwrightphotography.com and book today on my contact page! And if you’d like to see more photos from the gala you can see them here.