A live vocal musical performance by Cleveland’s Opera Per Tutti, added to the elegance of the evening at the first Cherry Blossom Ball Thursday night at the Akron Civic Theatre to benefit the group Dream Days.
“We wanted to have this here because of the unique atmosphere and attendees will enjoy their meal on the stage,” said Executive Director Jonathan Schulz.
Singers Andrea Anelli, Rebecca Freshwater, Paulette Penzvalto and pianist Patrick Wickliffe donated their talents.
Dream Days is an organization dedicated to planning, facilitating and providing events for those with developmental and physical disabilities and other chronic conditions.
“This ball will allow us to fund nearly 30 unique events in 2014 for the special needs communities of Northeast Ohio,” Development Director Lindsey Schulz said. “The more events we are able to create, the more lives we can touch, which is exactly what our mission is all about.”
The evening also included a dance performance by Mary Verdi-Fletcher of Dancing Wheels, who did a wheelchair performance for the group. The 50 guests enjoyed a catered menu, heavy hors d’oeuvres, DJ Jeff Edwards and a silent auction.
Bob, Tina and Anne Marie Anelli traveled from Sagamore Hills for the gala.
“They bring sports, music and entertainment to those with handicaps in a very dignified way,” Tina Anelli said.
“I love seeing the faces of the people who get to do normal activities like playing baseball games,” said Candy Smith of Cuyahoga Falls.
Her husband, Todd Smith, said, “Dream Days really reaches out to many people.”
Gina Pedulla attended with her parents, Judy and Dominic Pedulla, and niece Missy Pedulla.
“They have a strong heart in this group for kids who are less fortunate, and it just brings them so many opportunities that they wouldn’t normally have,” Gina Pedulla said.