Mesa Arts Center Foundation’s Annual Gala Kicks off Street Pianos Mesa
On Feb. 26, 360 guests assembled at Mesa Arts Center’s Shadow Walk to raise money to support the 10-year-old arts venue in downtown Mesa. The evening, hosted by Mesa Arts Center Foundation, kicked off Street Pianos Mesa, part of “Play Me I’m Yours,” a 50-city display of more than 1,400 pianos. It grossed in excess of $101,000, which will provide support for Mesa Arts Center’s Engagement programs that reach 54,000 people annually.
Robert’s Catering served a buffet menu that included salads, pastas, sliders and desserts. Composer and pianist Emily Bear, who at age 14 is one of the world’s most lauded and popular musicians and who arranged “The Bravest Journey” for 25 pianos, provided the evening’s entertainment.
Cassidy Campana chaired the festive occasion, and Emma Jade of 12 News served as the evening’s emcee.
Mesa Arts Center’s North Patio and Shadow Walk
Avinash Vikram joins 24 other pianists, including Emily Bear, to play “The Bravest Journey.”
Artist Lauren Lee (seated) and piano donor Hazel Howkins
Auctioneer Mike Hutchinson and Emcee Emma Jade of 12 News
Karrin Taylor and her daughter Olivia; Laurie Ikeda and Janet Ikeda
Artists Jennifer Gastelum, Kyllan Maney and Lauren Lee
Cindy Ornstein, Mesa Arts Center executive director
Neil Baier, Mesa Arts Center Foundation chair, with his family
Tiffany and JW Rayhons; Mesa Mayor John Giles and his wife, Dawn Giles
