From the simple to the sublime, the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival’s annual fundraising Gala and auction offers a dramatic range of opportunities – from a “walk-on” role in a Shakespearean play to luxury accommodations at several premiere vacation destinations – including Tuscany, Italy; Vail, Colorado and Sunset Beach, North Carolina.

“Live" auction items will be featured throughout the evening, as will entertainment by current and former PSF company members in an “All-Star Sneak Preview.” The summertime Gala benefits the Festival’s education and artistic programs and serves as PSF’s single largest fundraising event each year. A cocktail hour and silent auction launch the festivities at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner in the DeSales University Center's Gerald A. White Pavilion.

“This year, the Gala has a new twist,” says Patrick Mulcahy, PSF’s Producing Artistic Director. “An all-star line up of PSF’s professional artists will supply what promises to be an evening of first-rate entertainment uniquely crafted for this special occasion. Then the actors will mingle with our guests.”

The event also includes the annual presentation of PSF’s prestigious Will Shakespeare Award, which recognizes an individual who exemplifies core principles of PSF’s mission, inspires others through luminosity of spirit, and has made significant contributions to the arts community regionally or nationally. Priscilla Payne Hurd is this year’s honoree.

Cost is $150 per person; tables of 8: $1,200; tables of 10: $1,500. The cost, less $50 per person, may be treated as a charitable contribution for federal income tax purposes. Black tie is optional. The reservation deadline is May 18. For more information, call 610-282-WILL, ext. 6.