Ooh la la! Whisk yourself away to an unforgettable Nuit à Paris where curated performances meet French-inspired delights—at RPAA’s premier fundraiser of the season, all in support of a vibrant performing arts community.

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Dominion Energy Center 

November 20, 2025

6:00 PM

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performances by Richmond artists + heavy hors d'oeuvres + complimentary beverages + silent auction + more!

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EVENT TIMELINE 

5:45 PM                            Welcome + Registration

6:00 PM                           Cocktail Hour     

7:45 PM                            Arts Education Awards Presentation 

8:00 PM                            Performance by Hot Club of Baltimore!

9:00 PM                            Dessert + Dancing Reception           

Attire: Chic, modern attire inspired by French style!

(No costumes please)

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ARTS EDUCATION AWARDS PRESENTATION

Presented by Richmond Times-Dispatch

Once again, we are excited to honor three individuals who exemplify arts education in the greater Richmond community with the following awards:

• The SUPPORT AWARD, sponsored by Genworth, will be given to a teaching artist who models high-quality arts integration in their residencies, in SUPPORT of classroom teachers. 
• The NURTURE AWARD, sponsored by Atlantic Union Bank, will be given to a performing arts educator who NURTURES the artists of tomorrow through exemplary arts instruction in the K-12 classroom. 
• The THRIVE AWARD, sponsored by Kinsale, will be given to a leader in arts education who creates spaces in the community for the arts to THRIVE.  

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ABOUT RPAA

Advancing the performing arts in the Richmond region through programs and resources that SUPPORT the artists of today, NURTURE the artists of tomorrow, and provide spaces for the arts to THRIVE.

Our vision is to create a vibrant community where the performing arts flourish and strengthen Richmond's cultural, social, and economic vitality. Students, educators, and community members have equitable access to high-quality arts education and learning opportunities. Artists and arts organizations from all backgrounds have affordable and professional performance spaces and the capacity and resources to grow their programs and reach new audiences. And, patrons from all areas of the region see themselves reflected in the programs presented and enjoy diverse arts experiences in welcoming spaces, including our venues—Altria Theater and Dominion Energy Center.

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Proceeds support RPAA's vision to create a vibrant community where the performing arts flourish.

Your Presence is Your Permission: Photographers and videographers will be capturing RPAA events throughout the year. Some media (images/video) may be used in later promotional materials, publications, news releases, or other communications related to the mission of Richmond Performing Arts Alliance. Your presence at this event is seen as your permission for such promotional use by RPAA.

RPAA has adopted Community Agreements for all of its events and programming to ensure a welcoming & inclusive environment. 

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THE HEADLINER: HOT CLUB OF BALTIMORE

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Hot Club of Baltimore is a celebrated collective of jazz musicians dedicated to the music of Django Reinhardt and the swing traditions of the 1930s and 40s. The ensemble has released multiple acclaimed albums, toured nationally and internationally, and performed at major festivals including Festival Django Reinhardt in France and the Preston Jazz and Improvisation Festival in England. Known for blending authentic swing repertoire with original compositions, Hot Club of Baltimore frequently collaborates with top vocalists and guest artists from around the world. Recognized as one of Baltimore’s top musicians by Baltimore Style Magazine and featured in The Baltimore Sun, Hot Club of Baltimore is both a leading voice for Gypsy Jazz and a vibrant hub for the city’s jazz community.

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PRE-PERFORMANCE ENTERTAINMENT FEATURING: 

CARICATURES BY MATT

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Matt received his B.F.A in Communication Arts at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia. He has provided his caricature talents for celebrities like Buddy Valastro from Cake Boss. In 2011, he started drawing caricatures at the Philadelphia Zoo under the caricature company, Goofy Faces. Now, he has drawn over 15,000 caricatures and has traveled through the east coast drawing for parties and events.

CIRQUE DE SACRILOSA

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Cirque de Sacrilosa is a boundary-pushing performance arts company weaving circus, flow arts, and ritual into immersive experiences that ignite both stage and spirit. Rooted in Richmond and beyond, they transform fire, aerial, and movement into medicine—blending artistry, storytelling, and community connection. 

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DJANGO TANGO

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Django Tango is a Richmond based gypsy jazz swing trio formed to celebrate the music of legendary French guitarist Django Reinhardt and the Quintette du Hot Club de France. Guitarist, Russ Hanchin leads the trio.

MKMUSICVA

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In the 1960s, when the accordion was a staple at weddings and community gatherings, Mike Klemen fell in love with its sound and began lessons with Basil Ronzitti. He then went on to compete and perform in symphonies and quartets. As the accordion’s popularity faded, he focused on family and career, but later returned to the instrument with renewed passion. Today, he performs to share its beauty and expressive power.

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DESSERT & DANCING RECEPTION FEATURING:

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MARC J ENTERTAINMENT

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Marc J Entertainment is a premier DJ and entertainment company serving Richmond, VA and the surrounding areas. With over 25 years of professional experience, Marc J is known for delivering unforgettable performances at weddings, corporate events, clubs, and private parties. Specializing in interactive entertainment, lighting, and photo booth services, the company creates a high-energy atmosphere tailored to every crowd.

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Cocktail Hour Sponsor 

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Silver Sponsors

Bronze Partners

 

      

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Arts Ambassadors

Media Sponsors

Hotel Sponsor

Arts Partner

PARTY FOR THE ARTS COMMITTEE

Julie Flenner

Emilie Forest

Danielle Gilbert

Michael Hinchcliffe

Margaret Hodges

Amanda Prestage

Nate Shepherd

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SILENT AUCTION COMMITTEE

Emilie Forest + Nate Shepherd, Silent Auction Co-Chairs

John O'Malley, Associates Board Chair  

Rasheeda Chambers

Keller Bellotti

Madeline Culbreth

Margaret Hodges

Dixon Muller

Jordan Vonderharr

Liz Watson

Tiffannie Williams

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SILENT AUCTION POLICIES:

Online bidding is available for guests and bidders starting November 17, 2025 through the event on November 20, 2025. Notifications will be sent via email and/or text message.
  
1. All prize packages must be paid for in full by the end of the event. Payments may be made with cash, business or personal checks, or a major credit card.

2. All sales are FINAL. No returns or credits are allowed. Packages must be paid for at the end of the evening unless otherwise specified. If items are not picked up that night, arrangements will be made for the pick-up or shipping of items after the event. We ask that you please cooperate with this provision.

3. All packages are sold “AS IS.” Please read lot descriptions carefully. Travel, special events, and dinner packages expire one year from auction date unless otherwise specified. All hotel accommodations and travel reservations are subject to space availability. Blackout dates may apply. Air travel, when provided, originates from RIC unless otherwise indicated on certificate.

4. The highest bidder will be the buyer. In the event of a dispute between two bidders, the event manager will re-open the bidding between the two disputing bidders only. The event manager’s decision is final.

5. RPAA reserves the right to reject bids not commensurate with the starting bid listed for that item. 

6. Travel and dining packages are subject to blackout and expiration dates in 2025 and 2026.

7. RPAA is not responsible for making travel reservations, event planning, or catering arrangements unless otherwise indicated. The purchaser is responsible for researching all applicable passport and visa requirements on foreign travel packages.

8. Dinners and catered events do not include beverages, taxes, or gratuities unless otherwise stated.

9. All prizes have been donated. Every effort has been made to describe packages as accurately as possible based on the donor’s description. RPAA bears no responsibility should any item donated be unsatisfactory or should it become invalid due to foreclosures or changes in operations. RPAA is not responsible or liable for any personal injury or property damage that may result from an auction package. Once a package has been sold, sole contact is between the purchaser and donor(s).

10. Lots purchased at this auction cannot be sold, bartered, or redeemed for cash.

11. Auction prize packages and confirmed bids are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Please consult your accountant for guidelines. RPAA is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit charitable organization.​