The grand opening of the Dr. Stacie J. & Richard J Stephenson Theatre ushers in a historic new chapter for Arizona arts 

(November 7, 2025 – PHOENIX) The Phoenix Theatre Company proudly announces Applause! Gala 2025: Grand Opening a night dedicated to honoring the visionaries, humanitarians, and dreamers who have helped shape Arizona’s arts landscape. The annual celebration also marks the grand opening of the Dr. Stacie J. & Richard J Stephenson Theatre, ushering in a new chapter for the 105-year-old institution.

Led by Honorary Chair Sally Pope, the black-tie gala will bring together supporters for an unforgettable evening featuring a one-of-a-kind musical production written and directed by Producing Artistic Director Michael Barnard, performed inside the state-of-the-art Dr. Stacie J. & Richard J Stephenson Theatre. Guests will enjoy a curated dinner and live entertainment, honoring those who have made a lasting impact on Arizona’s arts and education community.

The 2025 honorees include Michael Kruke (Visionary Award), Jan and Tom Lewis (Humanitarian Award), Catherine Tuton (Woman Who Cares), Fred and Jami Pryor (Lifetime Achievement), Jeff and Nancy Werner (Angels of Our Art), and Jay Franke and David Herro (Men of Character).

“This moment is the bridge between where we’ve been and where we’re going. The Dr. Stacie J. & Richard J Stephenson Theatre is our leap toward the next century of creativity,” said Michael Barnard, Producing Artistic Director. “This theatre stands as a beacon for what’s possible when art and community move in harmony.” 

The evening’s success builds upon decades of community investment. Since its founding in 1920, The Phoenix Theatre Company has grown from a single-stage operation into Arizona’s largest producing theatre, serving thousands each year through its productions and outreach initiatives like Partners That Heal, which brings therapeutic theatre into hospitals and care centers statewide.

“This milestone belongs to everyone who believes in the transformative impact of live theatre,” said Vincent VanVleet, Executive Director. 

“Reaching our $1 million Gala Fundraising goal ahead of this momentous evening demonstrates the extraordinary generosity of our supporters. Every gift sustains the programs that define our mission and fuels the continued growth of this new home for the arts.”

Funds from the gala benefit the Theatre’s annual fund, which sustains year-round productions and outreach programs like Partners That Heal and the inclusive Summer Camp, providing creative opportunities for children of all abilities. Additional giving opportunities remain available and will be matched to support the final stages of the Stephenson Theatre campaign.

“Standing inside this new theatre, you can feel the decades of passion and perseverance that led us here,” said Sally Pope, Gala Chair. “Every artist, donor, and audience member has played a role in building this legacy. Together, we’ve created a home where art continues to uplift and unite us all.”

As the curtain rises on this new era, Applause! Gala 2025 stands as both a tribute to the Theatre’s legacy and a promise of what’s still to come, a future where the arts in Arizona continue to thrive.

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ABOUT THE PHOENIX THEATRE COMPANY The Phoenix Theatre Company is not only the largest professional regional theatre company in the state, with nearly 600 performances each year on multiple stages, but it’s also the first arts organization in Arizona and a founding member of the Central Arts District. Committed to advancing the performing arts in the Valley, The Phoenix Theatre Company’s mission is to create exceptional theatrical experiences that inspire hope and understanding. For more information about our upcoming shows, outreach programs, and more, visit www.phoenixtheatre.com.

Visit www.phoenixtheatre.com for event details and the 2025/26 Season lineup.