Performing Arts Gala

The Savannah Performing Arts Festival’s inaugural Gala, themed ‘A Rising Tide’, celebrated the performing arts in Savannah with live performances, community awards, a delicious dinner, and a few surprises.

The Gala was held from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 20 at the Savannah Cultural Arts Center, located at 201 Montgomery Street.

The 2025 Gala awards recognized individuals from across the Savannah landscape, nominated and chosen by their community. The awards and presenters are specified as follows: 

• Bill Irwin Trailblazer Award
• Jin Hi Soucy Rand Community Vanguard Award presented by Jin Hi Soucy Rand 
• Pen to Paper Award presented by I-95: The Rock of Savannah’s Reneé LaSalle 
• Technical Excellence Award presented by Kareem McMichael 
• Next Generation Award presented by SCCPSS Board President Roger Moss 
• Princess Grace Nominee presented by Alderman Nick Palumbo 
• Rising Star Awards presented by Alderman Nick Palumbo.

Photo credit: Kaitlin Sells and Bunny Ware