Wolf Trap Bollywood Ball Raises Record $2.3 Million+ For Foundation's Programs

VIENNA, VA — The entertainment of India's Bollywood was the backdrop for Wolf Trap's latest fundraising gala, which raised record donations. The Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts received more than $2.3 million to support its arts and education programs.

The 2025 ball was held as Wolf Trap recently closed out its Filene Center summer concert season and continues live performances into the winter and spring at the Barns at Wolf Trap. The Bollywood Ball was held at the Filene Center, drawing more than 800 guests. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin and First Lady Suzanne Youngkin were among the attendees.

"Just as our founder Catherine Filene Shouse envisioned, we continue to be a place where music and nature foster connection," said Arvind Manocha, president & CEO of Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts. "Between artists and audiences, between friends old and new, and between neighbors across the globe."

The guests were treated to music, dance, cuisine and decor inspired by India's artistic culture. Highlights included a performance by "Bombay Dreams" singer and actor Manu Narayan and flash mob by Rhythmaya Dance. Silver Lining provided the decor, Flowers at 38 provided floral arrangements. DJ Ravi Prasad provided music for guests to dance throughout the night. Skylark Entertainment provided live cocktail hour celebrations, and James Beard Award-winning Executive Chef Vikram Sunderam of Rasika provided cocktails and food.

Margaret and Shashi Gupta and Alka and Sudhakar Kesavan served as the Bollywood Ball co-chairs.

"Wolf Trap’s significant work beyond its stages and in the community inspires us,” said Ball co-chair Margaret Gupta. "Education is central to our identity, and the Foundation’s flagship program, the Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning Through the Arts, empowers teachers locally, across the nation, and internationally with arts-based teaching tools to positively impact our earliest learners."

Along with hosting performances, Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts hosts the Wolf Trap Opera summer residency program, and supports education through programs like arts education classes, Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning Through the Arts, teacher grants and more. Wolf Trap's Filene Center and Children's Theatre-in-the-Woods are located within the Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts. The third venue, The Barns at Wolf Trap, is located down the road from the national park and is operated year round by the foundation.