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“A Night on the Stage” is the annual fundraiser benefiting the operating funds of Piedmont Players Theatre in Salisbury. PPT has been a Salisbury institution for more than 50 years, drawing audiences, volunteers and performers that travel up to 50 miles to be a part of theater here in Salisbury. PPT operates two theatrical spaces; the historic Meroney Theater and the “all-youth” Norvell Theater, which also houses the educational youth program, including several workshops and a summer filled with exciting theatre summer camps for children of all ages.

“A Night on the Stage” enables PPT to maintain affordable ticket prices even as operating expenses increase. With the help of generous producing partners, donors, sponsors and volunteers, PPT has been able to entertain nearly 20,000 theater-goers annually, as well as introduce 12,000 county students to live theatre each year through a partnership with the Rowan-Salisbury School system. PPT takes great pride in continuing to help make Salisbury one of the most admired arts communities in North Carolina, but it takes money to keep two theaters running. Without this fundraiser, it would not be possible to perform to the high standards to which the community has grown accustomed. The proceeds generated by “A Night on the Stage” don’t just help keep the lights on and the ticket prices low, it also helps continue to grow theatre educational programming, in a time where budget cuts continue to eliminate arts education in many area schools.

“A Night on the Stage” starts out with a cocktail reception at 6:30 p.m. The night then moves to the historic Meroney Theater stage where guests will enjoy a catered meal by Salisbury’s own Chef Santos. After the meal, there will be an intimate performance by Tony Award nominee Bryce Pinkham, star of the Tony-winning musical “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder.”

Throughout the evening there will be a silent auction as well as a raffle for the chance to win a trip for two to New York City including round trip air, hotel accommodations for two nights and two tickets to the Broadway show of your choice. The evening will conclude with a VIP reception with Bryce for Presenting and Broadway level sponsors.

“A Night on the Stage” promises to be a fantastic evening that will help to insure Piedmont Players Theatre remains a source of pride for our community for many years to come.

Friday, May 20 and Saturday, May 21.

Reception: 6:30 p.m. Dinner: 7 p.m.

The Meroney Theater: 213 S. Main St., 704-633-5471, www.PiedmontPlayers.com