Metro Theater Company: After Dark 2023

Metro Theater founders Lynn Rubright and Zaro Weil, flanked by managing director Joe Gfaller (left) and artistic director Julia Flood (right), receive a standing ovation at this year’s After Dark gala. *photo by Bryan Schraier*

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The Big Top in Grand Center set the scene for this year’s After Dark gala in celebration of Metro Theater Company’s 50-year anniversary.

Themed “The Second Greatest Show on Earth,” the gathering featured high-flying entertainment during an interactive circus cocktail hour with stilt walkers, flame throwers and dazzling aerial artists. The evening’s “ringmaster,” Kinetic Tapestry’s Jaime Zayas, masterfully performed his duties as emcee through dinner and the main program, which included special recognition of Metro Theater founders Lynn Rubright and Zaro Weil, as well as the organization’s key leadership and artistic teams throughout the decades. It also featured live musical entertainment, aerial performances and a fund-the-future live auction. Guests also enjoyed a lively after-party with Spin Society DJs before concluding their evening.

Crystal and Patrick Dallas and Kathie and Richard Winter served as After Dark 2023 co-chairs.

Gazelle is proud to be the event’s media sponsor for the second year in a row.

photos by Bryan Schraier