The Opportunity
Dancing Classrooms, a celebrated NYC-based nonprofit, “brings the ballroom to the classroom,” cultivating essential life skills in students through the art and practice of social dance. To elevate awareness and support for their mission, they hosted an annual fundraiser, the Mad Hot Ball, bringing together 150 to 200 supporters, community leaders, and students for a night of dance, celebration, and philanthropy. In 2023, after several years of pandemic-related disruptions, Dancing Classrooms aimed to reintroduce its expanded programming, honor changemakers in dance, and provide an engaging guest experience that would inspire giving and celebrate the power of inclusive arts education. Dancing Classrooms retained Epiphany Blue to produce an expertly planned, seamlessly executed event that ensured the hospitality experienced by their guests, talent, students, and honorees was top-notch.
Our Approach
Our objective was to curate a well-executed, mission-aligned experience. We provided comprehensive planning and production support, including vendor coordination, program design, talent and honoree hospitality, and onsite logistics. In close collaboration with Dancing Classrooms, we produced an evening that embodied the organization’s core values of connection, inclusion, and joy. The program featured student performances, a live band, interactive dance moments, and both silent and live auctions, all carefully structured to highlight the organization’s impact and encourage guest engagement.
The Results
- Successfully produced a vibrant, mission-driven fundraiser in the heart of Manhattan’s Theater District at Edison Ballroom.
- Elevated guest experience through emotional journey mapping and thoughtful planning, resulting in strong donor engagement and community impact.
- Highlighted Dancing Classrooms’ expanded programming for K–12 students and students who are disabled, drawing increased awareness and support.
- Achieved seamless program execution with well-timed entertainment, inspiring student showcases, and dynamic auction segments that drove participation and donations.
- Reinforced Dancing Classrooms’ mission of fostering inclusive communities through movement, culture, and shared humanity.
