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Circus Arts Conservatory Gala

The bright lights were shining outside Circus Sarasota and performers greeted more than 350 guests as they arrived for The Circus Arts Conservatory Gala Friday, Jan. 24.

The Circus Sarasota Big Top was transformed into a magical celebration — the bright, colorful lights and festive centerpieces by Victoria Bloom set the perfect vibe for the entertaining evening. Guests paid attention to the suggested attire, “Circus glamorous with sensible shoes,” making this gala one of the most visually fun of the year.

Guests enjoyed cocktails and interactive circus fun while listening to The Kara Nally Band (scroll down for video) prior to being seated for the dinner. Following dinner, costume winners were announced and guests were blown away by the circus entertainment. Along with the performances, a surprise video showing old footage of “Queen of the Air” and Circus Co-Founder Dolly Jacobs and her father, Lou Jacobs, was shown at the event.

25th Anniversary Catholic Charities Ball

It was a heavenly scene at the 25th Anniversary Catholic Charities Ball Saturday, Jan. 25, where more than 425 guests gathered at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota to show their support for Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice.

Guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres prior to being seated in the ballroom for dinner. Students from Incarnation School and Cardinal Mooney High School sold tickets or the tuition raffle.

Jacqueline Crombie and Peter Routsis-Arroyo of Catholic Charities and Bishop Frank J. Dewane welcomed the guests to the event and following the dinner, they enjoyed a special performance by Sarasota Opera.