Special Events

Harman Center for the Arts Opening Gala

“Washington’s most buzzed about Gala” – Washington Life

On October 1, 2007, the Harman Center for the Arts opened its doors to downtown Washington with a star-studded gala including a stunning 90-minute performance, featuring world-class artists from all disciplines of the performing arts. Following the performance, a red carpet parade, complete with fireworks and street performers, transported guests to the National Building Museum for dinner and dancing.

The gala was a great success, raising nearly $3 million for the Capital Campaign for the new building. It is the support of our dedicated donors and friends that allowed us to open the building on budget and on time. We look forward to building on this success to make the Harman Center for the Arts Annual Gala one of the most anticipated events on the Washington social calendar for years to come.

Dr. Sidney Harman and Shakespeare Theatre Company Artistic Director Michael Kahn at the Harman Center for the Arts Opening Gala. Photo by Kevin Allen.
Dancers of the Washington Ballet performing at the Harman Center for the Arts Opening Gala. Photo by Carol Rosegg.   Nina Ananiashvili and Julio Bocca at the Harman Center for the Arts Opening Gala. Photo by Carol Rosegg.
Chelsea Clinton and Shakespeare Theatre Company Managing Director Nicholas Goldsborough at the Harman Center for the Arts Opening Gala. Photo by Virgilio Santos.   Sam Waterston at the Harman Center for the Arts Opening Gala. Photo by Virgilio Santos.
Gala Chair Ann Nitze, HRH The Duchess of Gloucester and British Ambassador David Manning at the Harman Center for the Arts Opening Gala. Photo by Virgilio Santos.   Mayor Adrian Fenty and Shakespeare Theatre Company Artistic Director Michael Kahn at the Harman Center for the Arts Opening Gala. Photo by Kevin Allen.
WPAS Men and Women of the Gospel Mass Choir at the 2007 Harman Center for the Arts Opening Gala. Photo by Carol Rosegg.   Patti LuPone performing at the Harman Center for the Arts Opening Gala. Photo by Carol Rosegg.