OPAS Encore! 2025 Gala: Supporting the Arts in Brazos County

January 20, 2025

For over five decades, OPAS Encore! has enriched Brazos County with the transformative power of the performing arts. What began as the OPAS Guild in 1973 has evolved into a cornerstone of cultural and educational programming, introducing thousands of children to the magic of live theater at Rudder Theater and bringing world-class performances to the Texas A&M University campus. This January, OPAS Encore! will host its highly anticipated annual gala, OPAS Encore!, a black-tie affair that combines elegance, creativity, and community spirit.

At David Gardner’s Jewelers in College Station, TX, we are proud to support the mission of OPAS Encore! Our team is celebrating our longstanding partnership with an organization that has brought so much joy and inspiration to Brazos Valley.

About OPAS Encore!

OPAS Encore! is a movement dedicated to promoting and supporting OPAS at Texas A&M University. Through its tireless efforts, OPAS Encore! funds family programming, special educational initiatives for children, and enhanced performances that elevate the cultural landscape of Brazos Valley.

One of its most impactful contributions is providing students at over 40 campuses across seven counties access to live theater. These experiences are gateways to imagination, creativity, and lifelong appreciation for the arts.

But keeping the arts alive and accessible comes with challenges. The cost of presenting world-class performances rises every year, making fundraising efforts like the OPAS Gala more critical than ever.

Opa's Encore dancer performing

DG:

At David Gardner’s Jewelers, we believe in the power of giving back to the community. Our partnership with OPAS is a testament to that commitment, as we work together to support and sustain the arts in the Brazos Valley. From fundraising initiatives to direct sponsorships, we are honored to help ensure that OPAS Encore! can keep inspiring future generations.

Philanthropy is woven into our mission, and we are proud to support not only OPAS Encore! but also a wide range of organizations dedicated to enriching the lives of our community in Brazos Valley.

Ballroom, flyer and singer performing for Opa's Encore event in Brazos County

The 2025 OPAS Gala:

Every January, the OPAS Gala dazzles the community with a creative theme that never fails to amaze. This year’s theme, The Back Room Speakeasy featuring a tribute to Anne Black, promises an unforgettable evening of roaring ’20s glamour and vintage sophistication. From themed décor to immersive entertainment, the OPAS gala is always a night to remember.

The gala is more than just an evening of fun. It’s the primary fundraising event for OPAS Encore! Patrons of the arts come together not only to celebrate but also to support programs that make a profound impact on local children and families.

Julia Gardner of David Gardner's at Opa's Encore Gala in Brazos County

This year, the gala includes an incredible raffle with prizes that elevate the excitement:

  • Two tickets will be drawn at the event, and each winner will receive a $7,000 shopping spree at David Gardner’s Jewelers.*
  • As ticket sales grow, so do the prizes:
    • When 600 tickets are sold, a third $7,000 shopping spree will be added.
    • When 800 tickets are sold, a fourth drawing will award an $8,000 shopping spree.
    • When 1,000 tickets are sold, a fifth ticket will grant an $8,000 shopping spree.
    • When 1,200 tickets are sold, a final $8,000 shopping spree will be awarded.

*Note: Shopping sprees exclude Rolex purchases.

The funds raised through the gala and raffle directly support world-class performances, so audiences in the Brazos Valley continue to experience the best in theater, music, and dance. By attending the gala, you help fund educational outreach programs that introduce thousands of children to live performances, sparking creativity and fostering a lifelong love of the arts. These initiatives not only enrich individual lives but also strengthen the cultural fabric of our community, leaving a lasting impact.

This year’s gala is also an opportunity to honor the dedication of individuals like Anne Black, Executive Director of OPAS, who has played a pivotal role in enhancing the performing arts in Brazos County. Her leadership is a testament to the spirit of generosity and vision that defines OPAS Encore!

The arts have a unique ability to connect, inspire, and transform. David Gardner’s local jeweler is honored to stand alongside OPAS Encore! in this endeavor, and we invite you to join us in supporting this remarkable organization. Together, we can make the arts shine even brighter in the Brazos Valley.

Julia Gardner of David Gardner's pulling raffle ticket at Opa's Encore Gala in Brazos County