Kool & The Gang To Headline The Palace Theatre's 13th Annual Gala

Information via The Palace Theatre

STAMFORD, CT — On Friday, May 16, The Palace Theatre in Stamford will welcome award-winning band and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Kool & the Gang for the nonprofit’s 13th annual gala.

The event is The Palace’s largest annual fundraiser with proceeds benefiting the organization and its arts education programs.

Pioneering R&B and funk, Kool & the Gang has shaped the music landscape for over five decades. Officially inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2024, their unparalleled fusion of jazz, soul, and funk has not only made them one of the most celebrated live acts in history but also the most sampled R&B band of all time, influencing artists across many genres.

Since their debut in 1969, the group has amassed two Grammy Awards, seven American Music Awards, 31 gold and platinum albums, with iconic hits like "Celebration," "Jungle Boogie," and "Cherish."

The red-carpet event will feature a pre-show cocktail party with hearty small plates by Marcia Selden Catering and open bars serving specialty cocktails, including a Mionetto Prosecco spritz station.

Guests can enjoy a best-dressed disco costume contest—with a 15 percent discount at Sophia’s Costume Shop for ticketholders—a silent auction, décor by Lux Poppin’, and the Absolutely Fabulous Photo Booth.

Gala tickets and sponsorships include premium seating to the Kool & the Gang performance, access to the VIP cocktail party, complimentary parking, and more.

"We are proud to present world class entertainment such as Kool & the Gang," said Palace Theatre President and CEO Michael Moran in a news release. "While most people know us for our outstanding shows, they may not know that The Palace is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization. Each year, we provide arts education programming to hundreds of under-resourced youth and award scholarships to many who might not otherwise be able to participate. Our goal this year is to raise $100,000 to support The Palace Theatre and its arts education programs, ensuring we can meet the growing demand in our community."

Additionally, Lynne Colatrella will be recognized as the 2025 Arts Ovation Award recipient and honoree.

"A lifelong Stamford resident, Colatrella has always shown unwavering passion for the arts," the theatre said in a news release.

In addition to creating and producing countless live events in Stamford, Colatrella is also an actor and director.

"I’m honored to have worked with Lynne in various roles over the past 25 years, including the Stamford Arts and Culture Commission," Moran added. "Lynne’s dedication to the arts and her leadership in community engagement has left an indelible mark on Stamford, and this is well deserved!"

Gala tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Director of Philanthropy Laurel Lea at 203-517-3416 or LLea@palacestamford.org for additional information.

The gala will begin at 5:30 p.m., and the performance by Kool & the Gang will begin at 8 p.m. Gala tickets are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.