Hylton Performing Arts Center Annual Gala: An Evening Above the Clouds

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Daniel Tucciarone, Sheyna Burt, and Thomas Sabal, Hylton Performing Arts Center Gala Honorees. Photo by A.E. Landes Photography

On April 25, guests gathered at George Mason University's Hylton Performing Arts Center for the 2026 Gala, An Evening Above the Clouds. The night began with a cocktail reception in the event's themed Cumulus Lounge featuring signature drinks including a "Bourbon Smash" crafted by MurLarkey Distilled Spirits and a "Meyer Lemon Squeeze" mocktail, live piano by George Mason University College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) alumnus Charlie Murdock, BM Music '24, and a curated Art Walk of works by veteran artists organized by current School of Art graduate student and U.S. Air Force veteran Steven Luu through Mason Exhibitions.

Guests then moved to Merchant Hall stage for a three-course dinner by Well Dunn Catering, surrounded by elegant floral design and custom centerpieces by artist, U.S. Air Force veteran, and George Mason faculty member Patrick Sargent. The evening's entertainment included an aerialist performance, a Mason Music Productions string quartet, and a featured performance by current CVPA Dewberry School of Music student Joshua Slutsky.

Aerialist from Candescent performing on Merchant Hall stage. Photo by A.E. Landes Photography

This year's gala celebrated three "high-flying" honorees: Sheyna Burt, Daniel Tucciarone, and Thomas Sabal. Each charmed the audience with charismatic speeches, reflecting a palpable passion for the arts and the vibrant community they have found within the Hylton Center.

Veterans and the Arts Initiative Program Director Niyati Dhokai provided inspiring remarks on the program's impact by sharing two participant testimonials. Regarding the initiative, Dhokai said it "affirms something simple and powerful: that the arts can honor service not only through reflection, but by carrying the integrity of service into the future."

George Mason President Gregory Washington was then welcomed to the stage by Dean Rick Davis, building upon the idea that the arts are fueled by imagination and innovation.

"By supporting the Hylton Center, you're doing even more than [supporting the arts]," Washington noted. "You are investing in imagination. You are investing in innovation. You are investing in education."

In his final gala as executive director, Dean Rick Davis took control as captain for one last flight. He guided guests through the Center's remarkable achievements, highlighting a 65% growth in participation for the Veterans and the Arts Initiative and the successful landing of the $15 million long-term endowment goal. Before disembarking, he concluded his remarks by clearing the runway for incoming Executive Director Carolyn Hays.

College of Visual and Performing Arts student Joshua Slutsky, bass, accompanied by faculty member Eunae Ko Hann. Photo by A.E. Landes Photography

The evening reached its peak during the Raise Your Paddle event, as guests lifted glowing rings in a moving tribute led by Rick Davis-creating a "night sky" that celebrated their generosity. Along with the Wine and Whiskey Pull and a record-setting silent auction, the gala raised more than $40,000 for the Veterans and the Arts Initiative and $165,000 overall.

Afterward, guests exited through a cloud of fog into the transformed Didlake Grand Foyer for the Club on Cloud 9 afterparty. Treats from Spun Cotton Candy Art and Popcorn Monkey, music by DJ Rio of DC Rhythms, and espresso martinis capped the night, with commemorative luggage tags from Chantilly Air marking a smooth, celebratory journey.

The night would not have been possible without the support of many local businesses and supporters. Thank you to our Anniversary Gala Supporters!

Horizon Sponsor-Compton & Duling
Navigator Sponsor-City of Manassas
Liftoff Sponsors-Carolyn Hays and Jeff Burke; Connery Strategies; Didlake; Dominion Energy; George Mason University Foundation; Micron Technology; Rick Davis and Julie Thompson; UVA Health; Wall Foundation
Ground Control Sponsors-Dan Tucciarone and Tom Sabal; Sentara Healthcare; Shirley Rice; Vanderpool, Frostick & Nishanian; Walsh, Colucci, Lubeley & Walsh
Boarding Sponsor-Chantilly Air
Club on Cloud 9 Sponsor-Appliance Connection
Cumulus Lounge Sponsor-Avports
Inflight Beverage Sponsor-Whitlock Wealth, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC
Raise Your Paddle Sponsor-APP Jet Center
Wine and Whiskey Pull Sponsor-The Meredith House
Silent Auction Sponsor-Todos Neighborhood Market
Honoree Reception Sponsor-Ron Harris