The Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus will host its second-annual jazz-themed Fall Ball Masquerade Fundraiser next week, and in a new location. The fundraiser will be held from 8-11 p.m. Oct. 19 at the Marriott Philadelphia Downtown’s Liberty Ballroom, 1201 Market St. PGMC director of special events Avery Taylor said the ball was moved from its inaugural digs at the Ethical Society Building to accommodate the volume of supporters expected. “We actually outgrew the space from last year,” he said. “We had to cut off sales because we couldn’t accommodate the large amount of guests. PGMC wanted to increase our space and, given Marriott’s location and opulence, it was a perfect fit for the event.” This year, doors will open at 7:15 p.m. for a new VIP reception. featuring an open bar, hors d’oeuvres and a live jazz ensemble. Magician and impersonator Cashetta will also perform a special number for VIP guests. Brotherly Love, a smaller ensemble within PGMC, will perform during Fall Ball, with a masquerade dance to finish the event. PGMC is expecting about 250 guests, but Taylor said the space can also hold more. “We’re focused on fundraising while at the same time we want our guests to have a great time and see the wonderful work we are doing and appreciate all of our efforts,” he said. Last year was the first for the fundraiser, which Taylor said was created as part of the effort to support the expansion of PGMC’s programming. “We are looking to grow the chorus internally and externally and improve upon the already-terrific concerts we do,” he said. “We want to expand our youth outreach and community-outreach programs. We knew we needed significant financial support to grow the chorus in a way we want to and the LGBT community in Philly needs it to be.” Avery said money raised will go towards choreography, costumes and set designs as well as complimentary concert tickets PGMC gives out to different colleges, universities and high schools in the Delaware Valley region. There will be a silent auction with an expanded diversity of items. Taylor said Fall Ball will showcase the chorus’s goal of providing an entertaining support system for the LGBT community in Philadelphia. “We want to foster acceptance through musical performances and we know our guests will have a great time. We have many wonderful things planned for this year, so this evening will be a lot of fun and proceeds will help PGMC to grow concerts and programs and continue to strengthen the already-strong organization.” Tickets for the event are $100 for the cocktail reception with open bar, $150 for the VIP entrance and $250 for sponsorship of the event. Ticket packages are also available. Tickets can be purchased at www.pgmc.org.
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