When You Believe: TPAC Gala Looks to the Future of Performing Arts in Nashville

The Four Seasons Hotel Nashville came alive as guests of the TPAC Gala meandered past the registration table to be greeted with a verdant portrait studio just before they entered the event. After a quick stop for a photo, partygoers entered the reception area, lit with the golden light of sunset. There, designer Matt Logan created two vignettes with models dressed as goddesses. Their pedestaled presence invoked images of the Grecian classics and set the stage for the evening to come. As patrons mingled and enjoyed the passed hors d’oeuvres, co-chairs Tiffany Degrafinreid and Allison Lechleiter were on hand to visit and thank everyone for attending and supporting the important work of TPAC. Revelers also enjoyed sweeping views of the Cumberland River as they sipped cocktails and wine.

Once everyone was seated for dinner, TPAC’s board chair Phil Wenk talked about the accomplishments of TPAC through community outreach, proudly mentioning that Broadway at TPAC is becoming the hottest ticket in town. TPAC’s CEO Jennifer Turner then took the stage to discuss the success of TPAC as well as where plans may take TPAC in the future — both literally and figuratively. No TPAC Gala would be complete without incredible performances. This year, with Sandy Tipping as their music director, artists John-Mark McGaha and Piper Jones performed songs from Tina: The Tina Turner Musical.

The highlight of the evening came when Josh Jordan, a graduate of Nashville School of the Arts, talked about what being part of the program meant for him. After he spoke, the school’s Paragon vocal ensemble moved to the front of the room and enthralled with The Prince of Egypt’s “When You Believe.” While there were few dry eyes in the room after the performance, many guests went on to enjoy the jazz hour with the Wes Bailey Band.