A Night In Lights: Annual Benefit Gala

State Theatre New Jersey's Annual Benefit Gala provides essential support to STNJ’s work providing affordable access to the arts and arts education experiences for all communities through initiatives including free tickets for veterans, subsidized admission for public-school students, free tickets for NJ charities, and support for the most vulnerable members of our community.

Past galas have featured Kool & The Gang, Aretha Franklin, Frankie Valli, Jay Leno, and other world-class artists. Check out the photos from our most recent event and stay tuned for news about the 2026 Benefit Gala.

Save the date for next year's event! 
Saturday, June 6, 2026

State Theatre New Jersey Celebrates Benefit Gala: A Night in Lights with a Performance by Tony® Award-winner Kelli O’Hara

On June 7, 2025, State Theatre New Jersey hosted A Night in Lights Annual Benefit Gala to support its mission to provide transformative arts education programs, affordable ticketing initiatives, and community outreach efforts that bring the joy of live entertainment to everyone, regardless of their circumstances. Held at the historic State Theatre, the evening featured an intimate performance by Tony® Award-winning Broadway star Kelli O’Hara and raised more than $313,00 towards STNJ’s work to ensure the performing arts remain affordable and accessible for everyone in our community.

STNJ's 2025 Gala was co-chaired by Robert J. DiLeo (State Theatre Board Member, NAI DiLeo-Bram & Co.) and John Reissner (Magyar Bank) and recognized John and Jeanne Fitzgerald as our 2025 Arts Advocates Award recipients.

“Thank you to the incredible Gala Committee, State Theatre staff, and generous supporters for making this event a tremendous success,” commented State Theatre New Jersey President & CEO Sarah Chaplin. “We couldn’t be more pleased to honor two amazing individuals, John and Jeane Fitzgerald, for their commitment to the arts and our community.”

A Night In Lights featured a silent auction featuring one-of-a-kind experiences and signed memorabilia from some of STNJ’s top performances, a gourmet dinner, a breathtaking performance by Kelli O’Hara, and a vibrant after-party with music and dancing.

View Our 2025 Digital Program Online

View photos from A Night in Lights: STNJ Benefit Gala 2025

THANK YOU TO OUR 2025 GALA SPONSORS

Standing Ovation Sponsors

Spotlight Sponsors

Encore Sponsors

Center Stage Sponsors

Marquee Sponsors

Red Carpet Sponsors

2025 Benefit Gala Committee

All proceeds help provide arts education and community engagement programs for children, families, and underserved residents each year and support the continued excellence of our world-class mainstage performances.