Bold and Beautiful: The TPAC Gala Uplifts Community Education

On a stunning spring evening, guests arrived at the Four Seasons Nashville for the annual TPAC gala. While many stopped for a quick photo at the step-and-repeat, they immediately moved into the ballroom foyer, where Matt Logan had staged vibrant vignettes featuring stylish models and the word “bold” written in neon letters. Guests visited, sipped cocktails and enjoyed the view — with one added bonus. The event’s designers had cleverly added decals to the windows overlooking the Cumberland River to give revelers a vision of TPAC’s future on the East Bank.

As the dinner bell rang, guests entered the ballroom, ready for the evening to truly begin. TPAC president and CEO Jennifer Turner took the stage, taking a moment to thank those in the room for their continued support. “I say the word ‘community’ often when talking about TPAC — maybe even more than I say ‘the arts,’” she said. “For TPAC, the community and the arts are inherently connected. Our work is an interwoven tapestry of artistic experiences that spark joy and connection in our lives.”

Adding impact to the evening, teachers from area schools took the stage. TPAC teaching artist Ginger Newman discussed the Disney theatrical group’s initiative to build sustainable theater programs in Nashville. “Nine years ago, TPAC worked with the educators at Wright Middle School to put on their very first Disney musical,” she said. “And today, [Wright Middle School] has a vibrant theater program with a trained and dedicated team to inspire the students they teach. If that doesn’t give you chills, you might not have a pulse.”

One of the most poignant moments came when Derreck, an eighth grade student at Wright Middle School, spoke about the impact theater has had on him. “When I’m onstage, I feel like a superstar,” he said. “I feel powerful. I have all these different emotions. I’m just excited to perform.” Finally, four top Broadway performers — Quentin Earl Darrington, Morgan James, Nicholas Rodriguez and Elizabeth Stanley — wowed the crowd with an incredible performance, creating a night to remember.