Sister Cities Association of Sarasota Announces OWA Gala to Celebrate Global Connections Through the Performing Arts

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SARASOTA, FL – The Sister Cities Association of Sarasota (SCAS) is thrilled to announce its upcoming gala on October 20, 2024. This year’s gala promises an evening of elegance, dance, and cultural enrichment to celebrate Iain Webb, director of the Sarasota Ballet, and the Ballet itself. They are each receiving the prestigious One World Award, SCAS’s premier international accolade. 

The One World Award honors one remarkable individual and one organization that have enhanced “understanding, respect, and peaceful relations” among citizens of the world through their extraordinary work or volunteer service. Iain Webb and The Sarasota Ballet’s contributions have significantly elevated Sarasota’s cultural landscape with their local and international performances. Join us as we celebrate the spirit of international friendship and cultural exchange that defines the Sister Cities Association of Sarasota.

Illustrious honorees, guests, and entertainment

The visionary leadership of Iain Webb, Director of The Sarasota Ballet, has brought international acclaim to the company through his bold premieres and classic revivals. His dedication to dance excellence and contributions to Sarasota’s cultural scene make him a central attraction within Sarasota’s arts landscape. 

Joining him to accept the organization award are Margaret Barbieri, Assistant Director, and Joseph Volpe, Executive Director, whose efforts ensure high-caliber performances from and respect for ballet traditions within the Sarasota Ballet. 

In the room, attendees have the chance to meet delegates from our Sister Cities like the Mayor of Perpignan, Sarasota’s Sister City in France, Sister City International leadership, and Sarasota community leaders while partaking in a silent auction, Sarasota Ballet performances, and a lively atmosphere of championing Sister Cities’ goal of promoting peace through people.

Cultural significance

The OWA Gala is more than just an event; it powerfully expresses how the universal language of art and culture can bring people together from different communities and countries. This gala serves as a pivotal platform for promoting international understanding, peace, and friendship through the arts. By showcasing the profound impact of dance and cultural exchange, the event highlights Sarasota’s commitment to nurturing global relationships.

This year our recipients underscore the importance of cultural citizen diplomacy. Dance, as a form of non-verbal communication, transcends linguistic barriers and conveys emotions and stories that unite people across different cultures and geographies.

The gala is also a vital event for the Sister Cities Association of Sarasota. It is not just a celebration; it is a chance to make a real difference. 

The proceeds from the OWA Gala will help their City Directors work on more projects and exchanges. This support enhances the SCAS mission of citizen diplomacy through art, culture, youth and education, and sports. It also helps the organization grow and develop more business and economic ties between Sarasota and SCAS global Sister and Friendship cities. Your participation and support are crucial in making these connections stronger and more impactful.

Event details

Mark your calendars for a night of elegance and cultural celebration. This much-anticipated event will take place on Sunday, October 20, 2024, in the grandeur of the Michael’s on East Ballroom, beginning at 5:00 PM.

• Date and Time: Sunday, October 20, 2024, 5:00 PM
• Location: Michael’s on East Ballroom, 1212 S East Ave, Sarasota, FL 34239, United States 
• Ticket Information: Tickets are available for purchase at sarasotasistercities.org/owa2024. Also on the website, find information about the OWA Honorees and opportunities for sponsors and donors.
• Dress Code: Cocktail attire is requested to honor the evening’s festive and cultural ambiance.

For those interested in supporting this event further:

• Sponsorships: Please contact Yvonne Holmes, Vice President of Fundraising, at yholmes@sarasotasistercities.com
• Donations: If you wish to contribute to the silent auction or make a donation, please contact Xochitl Napoles at xnapoles@sarasotasistercities.com or Eleonora Surico, Director of Events, at esurico@sarasotasistercities.com

###

About Sister Cities Association of Sarasota

The Sister Cities Association of Sarasota (SCAS) is a dynamic non-profit organization committed to promoting peace, mutual respect, and global cooperation through city-to-city partnerships and international cultural exchanges. SCAS serves as a hub for citizen diplomacy, connecting the Sarasota community with its seven Sister and Friendship cities around the world. Its mission is to strengthen relationships through educational, cultural, and business initiatives that provide enriching experiences and opportunities for collaboration. Learn more at sarasotasistercities.org.

About The Sarasota Ballet

The Sarasota Ballet is an American ballet company based in Sarasota, Florida. Founded in 1987 by former ballet dancer Jean Weidner Goldstein, it has become acclaimed for its performances of Sir Frederick Ashton’s ballets under the direction of Iain Webb and assistant director Margaret Barbieri. Their repertoire is unique and diverse, earning them national and international praise for innovative performances and the company’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of dancers. Learn more at sarasotaballet.org.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Isabelle Eidet
ieidet@sarasotasistercities.com