STAND Performing Arts 2026 Gala

You’re invited to the 2026 STAND Gala.

Join us on October 8, 2026, 6-10 PM, for an unforgettable evening of elegance, artistry, and storytelling.

This year’s masquerade-inspired gala explores the stories we carry, the roles we play, and the moments that shape who we become. Beneath the masks, behind the costumes, and beyond the stage lights, we find stories of courage, creativity, belonging, and transformation.

Join us for an immersive evening featuring:
• Cocktails and dinner
• Live theatrical performances
• Silent and live auction experiences
• Inspiring moments of impact and testimony

This special evening will honor Bishop Ackerman for a lifetime of dedication, leadership, and investment in the performing arts.

For over 21 years, STAND Ministries has empowered artists to discover their voice, develop their gifts, and use the performing arts to tell meaningful stories that matter. Your presence at this gala helps provide opportunities for the next generation of artists, leaders, and storytellers.

Guests are invited to step into a formal evening where beauty, theatre, and authenticity collide.

Because every performance tells a story.
Every person carries one.
And every mask holds a story.

Reserve your seat today.

Group of nine people posing in front of a black backdrop with the words 'Performing Arts Ministry Stand' printed repeatedly, with balloons and a star decoration on the right.
A group of six people on stage, dressed in costumes, smiling and holding hands during a theatrical performance. There are balloons and lit letters in the background.
A woman with glasses, wearing a dark off-the-shoulder dress, smiling and shaking hands with someone seated at a table during an event.
Four young actors in costume on stage, with large illuminated letters spelling 'STAGE' behind them, and red, black, and gold balloons at the base of the letters, during a theatrical performance.
Young man kneeling on stage during a performance or speech, with illuminated sign spelling 'STAND' behind him and a backdrop of red, black, and gold balloons, audience in foreground.
Two actors on stage performing in front of illuminated letters spelling 'STAY' and decorated with red, gold, and black balloons.
An older man with white hair, beard, and glasses wearing a blue patterned tuxedo jacket, using a smartphone and a tablet while standing in a row of black chairs at an event, with other people sitting and looking at devices in the background.
A woman in a long red dress speaking into a microphone on stage with illuminated letters spelling 'STAND' and red, black, and gold balloons behind her.
A woman speaking at a podium on stage during an event celebrating the 20th anniversary of an organization called Stance, with large illuminated letters spelling Stance and a display screen showing the same event info. Decorative balloons in red, blac
Three women standing on stage with illuminated letters and balloons in the background. One woman is speaking while the other two listen.
A group of six women dressed as nuns performing on stage, pointing and singing, with illuminated letters, balloons, and audience in the foreground.
The cast of Shrek the Musical on stage, with a large screen in the background displaying the show's logo.

Why give?

  • ✽

    Empower Young Artists – Your gift helps students grow in confidence, creativity, and skill through training in acting, dance, and voice.

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    Build Christ-Centered Leaders – STAND is more than the stage. We develop students to lead with integrity, compassion, and faith.

  • ✽

    Support Arts Education – Your donation funds scholarships, costumes, sets, and resources that make quality arts education accessible to all.

  • ✽

    Expand Kingdom Impact – Through performances, missions, and outreach, STAND brings the message of hope and truth to communities near and far.

  • ✽

    Celebrate 20 Years of Impact – This milestone year marks two decades of life-changing experiences—your support helps us launch into the next 20 with strength.

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    Invest in the Future – Every dollar you give sows into the next generation of storytellers, dreamers, and difference-makers.