Arts & Entertainment
Encore Center for Performing Arts to Host 2026 Spotlight Giving Gala, “The Future Takes the Stage”
Annual fundraiser will support ECPA's vision to expand access to the performing arts and create a cultural destination in downtown Elmhurst
ELMHURST, Ill. — Encore Center for Performing Arts (ECPA) will present its 2026 Spotlight Giving Gala, “The Future Takes the Stage,” on Saturday, Nov. 14, at 5:30 p.m. at the Hyatt Lodge in Oak Brook. Gala co-chairs are Jeff Budgell and Sue Vargas, Francine Pepitone and Stephen Erenburg. Illinois State Rep. Marti Deuter will serve as honorary chair.
The Spotlight Giving Gala raises funds in support of ECPA’s vision to create a thriving cultural destination in downtown Elmhurst, where world-class artists, local talent, students and audiences come together to experience the power of the performing arts. Gala highlights include a cocktail reception, stage performances and post-gala live music and dancing.
“The Gala is a great opportunity to celebrate our achievements and share our plans for the future,” said Mark George, ECPA President. “Critical funds are needed to establish a state-of-the-art performing arts center that attracts world-class artists, expands access to the performing arts, and fuels the cultural and economic vitality of Elmhurst and Chicago’s western suburbs.”
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ECPA is celebrating a remarkable year, one in which the organization engaged a new developer, hired a new president, offered public performances and built relationships with businesses throughout DuPage County.
“ECPA is finally ready for take-off,” said Jeff Budgell, chair of the ECPA Board. “With our project advancing rapidly, we are ready to seize the day. We have a lot to celebrate.”
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The Hyatt Lodge Oak Brook is located at 2815 Jorie Blvd., Oak Brook, IL 60523. For information about tickets and sponsorship opportunities, visit encorepresents.org.
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About Encore Center for Performing Arts
Encore Center for Performing Arts is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization working to establish a premier cultural destination that attracts world-class artists, expands access to the performing arts, and fuels the cultural and economic vitality of Elmhurst and Chicago’s western suburbs. ECPA currently presents professional performing arts programming in Elmhurst while working to build a permanent home for live music, theater, dance, comedy and community events. Visit www.encorepresents.org to learn more on how to get involved.
