The Bug Ball Transports Supporters to an Evening in France

The highly anticipated 2024 Bug Ball transported guests to a French wonderland. The annual fundraiser for The Theater Bug, held this year at Saint Elle, had a French fête theme and the chicness to match. 

Servers greeted guests with glasses of Champagne as revelers wearing florals and pastels made their way into the venue. Signature gin and bourbon cocktails set the tone for the soirée, as supporters chatted with each other, posed for photos in front of a stunning toile backdrop and purchased mystery bottles of wine for $30 — one of which was valued at $300.

Guests took their seats, enjoying a decadent French meal, as co-hosts Diana DeGarmo and Ace Young took the stage. The pair gushed about The Bug’s work to create a home for all young artists by offering affordable theater programs and performances. 

Greylee, a Bug alum, got the show underway by singing original songs, including “I Don’t Care If You Don’t Like Me.” Many Bug performers followed, with talented kids of all ages showing off their impressive pipes, comedic wit and impeccable stage presence. Greylee’s onstage showing — and every other performance that night — earned a standing ovation from the raucous crowd. 

Cori Anne Laemmel, the group’s managing director, announced a new fundraising campaign that encourages everyone — parents, students and alums — to tell their Bug story. Board member Tyler Merritt gave an emotional speech about the importance of inclusivity and the need to celebrate individuality, things at which The Bug excels. 

Things took a comedic turn when Tyler, backed by current Bug students, worked to motivate donors with a performance inspired by Sarah McLachlan’s iconic “Angel” ASPCA commercials. As a final push, the kids performed a hilarious mash-up of money-themed songs, including “I Need a Dollar” and “Ain’t About the Money.”