By Akia Uwanda McDaniel and Dr. Darryl Reuben Hall | The energy inside WJCT Studios was nothing short of electric as Stage Aurora Theatrical Company, the brainchild of Dr. Darryl Reuben Hall,  marked its 25th year of theatre-making in Jacksonville with its 25th Year Stage Aurora Celebration Gala, honoring a quarter century of excellence in the arts, culture, and community. Nearly 200 guests filled the transformed studio for an evening that embodied the organization’s goal to produce “Theatre that Enlightens.” Guests enjoyed gourmet refreshments and soul food favorites catered by Annie Ru’s that delighted the palate, complemented by an atmosphere of community, elegance, and gratitude. Hosted by actress Angela Robinson of Tyler Perry’s The Haves and the Have Nots, the evening featured a seamless mix of entertainment and reflection. Special guest presenters Renee Lawless (also of The Haves and the Have Nots) and Craig Smith of the Alhambra Dinner Theatre brought charm and charisma to the stage, while performances by Lisa Lockhart, Anthony Mincey, Jr., Jazz Zamor, and Nevaeh Camacho captivated the audience with their musical brilliance. A touching testimonial of participation in the 100 Youth Voices Program was provided by Andre’ Troutman, a Grammy nominated/Multiplatinum professional musician.

The evening’s Aurora VIP Honorees are: Tod Booth, Dr. Barbara A. Darby,Dr. Dolores and Mr. Edward Hall, Carlton Jones, City Councilwoman, Ju’Coby Pittman, and Delores Barr Weaver—were celebrated for their extraordinary support, philanthropy, and guidance provided to Stage Aurora over these years. In total, more than 25 honorees were recognized for their invaluable impact on Stage Aurora’s 25-year legacy. STAR Honorees included: Valerie Bellamy Bailey, Helen Chestnut, Dr. Alvenia Derban, Sandra Levy-Donawa, J. E. Fralin. Bishop Terry L Hill Jr., Dr. Rahman Johnson, Missy Peters of Community First Cares Foundation,  Dee Quaranta, Glinda Groover-Roberts with Greater Refuge Temple, Akia Uwanda, and Hal Weston. Board Honorees included Chairman DeWitt Hughes III, Jann Clark, Rod Hill, Tarana Cox, Valerie Johnson-Johnson, Wanda Patterson, Angela Robinson and Gloria Stephens – Posthumously. Behind the scenes, the event’s success was orchestrated by  the Gala Committee, whose vision created an atmosphere that was both intimate and grand.

As a highlight of the evening, a resolution was presented to honor Darryl Reuben Hall and celebrate Stage Aurora Theatrical Company’s 25th Anniversary, along with a  a surprise Honorary Doctorate from St. Thomas Christian University awarded to Founder and Executive Director  Dr. Darryl Reuben Hall. Next on stage at Stage Aurora is the hit classic opera PORGY and BESS performing November 7-8 at the FSCJ Kent Campus Auditorium.