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2026 Gala

A Night in Noir · 2026 Gala

The Great Lakes Center for the Arts invites you to spend a Night in Noir at the 2026 Gala on July 11.

Step into an evening of timeless glamour and cinematic intrigue featuring a live performance by the illustrious composer behind generations of iconic songs, David Foster, alongside acclaimed vocalist and Broadway star Katharine McPhee.

Your night begins with an exclusive Sponsor Dinner, where guests check in to the iconic atmosphere of the Beverly Hills Hotel—lush palms, signature stripes, and sunset-soft elegance that defined Hollywood’s golden era. As the evening continues, guests take their seats for an intimate concert featuring Foster and McPhee. Following the performance, the night carries on at an Afterparty with late-night bites, signature cocktails, and the lingering glow of a celebration that feels straight out of a silver-screen dream.

Proceeds from the Gala benefit the Great Lakes Center for the Arts mission—to inspire, entertain, educate, and serve all in Northern Michigan year-round by presenting exceptional experiences across the full spectrum of the performing arts and offering impactful educational opportunities.

Sponsorships

If you are interested in purchasing a sponsorship, please contact the Development Office at 231.439.2601 or gala@greatlakescfa.org.

Gala Patron Tickets (Concert + Afterparty)

Tickets to the Gala Concert and Afterparty are available as part of subscriptions, with any remaining inventory going on sale May 1.

The Evening

Suggested Attire: Channel your inner motion-picture star with formal evening attire inspired by old Hollywood elegance—think jewel-toned dresses, tailored suits, red lips, timeless jewelry, and subtle sheen.

4:30PM · Composer and Conductor Reception (NEW!)

Exclusive reception for Composer and Conductor Sponsors
Cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and photo opportunity

5:00PM · Sponsor Dinner

Cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and photo opportunity
Dinner
Live Luxury Auction

7:45PM · Doors Open for Gala Patrons

Beer, wine, and photo opportunity

8:30PM · Gala Concert

Featuring David Foster and Katharine McPhee

10:00PM · Afterparty

Dancing, cocktails, and hors d’oeuvres

11:30PM · Evening Concludes

About the Artists

David Foster

David Foster is one of the most influential composers and producers in modern music history. A 16-time Grammy Award winner, he is the creative force behind some of the most iconic songs of the past four decades, including “I Will Always Love You,” “Because You Loved Me,” “The Prayer,” “Hard to Say I’m Sorry,” and “After the Love Has Gone.” His work spans pop, classical, film, and Broadway, shaping the careers of countless legendary artists and defining generations of music lovers. Now, in what he calls his “third act,” Foster continues to evolve creatively—bringing his unmatched sense of melody and storytelling to new stages and proving that true icons don’t rest on their legacy, they redefine it.

Katharine McPhee

Katharine McPhee is a celebrated singer and actress whose career effortlessly bridges television, Broadway, recording, and live performance. She first rose to national prominence on American Idol before starring in hit series such as SMASH and Scorpion, and earning critical acclaim on Broadway and the West End in Waitress. Renowned for her powerhouse vocals, magnetic stage presence, and versatility across genres—from pop and jazz to musical theater—McPhee is a dynamic performer who brings both emotional depth and star power to every role and every song.

Questions?

For any questions, please contact the Development Office at 231.439.2601 or gala@greatlakescfa.org.