Manhattan, KS— Mark your calendar now for some holiday cheer as the Friends of McCain Auditorium will host two separate fundraising events for the McCain Performance Series and its education programs in December.
McCain’s first-ever Holiday Gala and Auction will be at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, while the return of the Holiday Home Tour returns from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4. Both events will help the McCain Performance Series and its education programs with recovering from the financial devastation of the pandemic. The McCain Performance Series and its education programs are completely funded through donations, ticket sales and event sponsorships. They receive no funding through the university or the state of Kansas.
The McCain Holiday Auction and Gala will start with a reception in the new Jack and Joann Goldstein Grand Lobby. Enjoy an open bar and delicious food and bid on unique must-have silent auction items while being entertained by local performers. Next, proceed to the theatre and experience spectacular live stage performances while live-bidding on incredible arts trips and other exclusive experiences, many of which will only be available at the McCain auction. Finally, dance the night away to the upbeat music of Aye Oh!, one of Manhattan’s favorite local bands. Tickets are $125 per person and will go on sale later in the fall. McCain is still accepting sponsorships and donation items. Chairing this event is Amanda Purdom. Call the McCain office at 785-532-6525 for more information.
This year’s Holiday Home Tour will feature four highly unique area residences decorated for the holiday season. Selection and coordination of homes begin more than a year in advance to allow homeowners adequate time to plan and prepare for the event. The tour will feature Todd and Teri Holmberg’s home on Humboldt Street. Affectionately known as “The Bee’s Knees,” this 1920s cottage features a unique combination of historic and modern features and décor, artifacts salvaged during the renovation and the couple’s collectibles, including Todd Holmberg’s photo and autograph collection from a career in show business.
The tour will also feature Jake and Barb Wassenberg’s Colbert Hills home. Sitting high on a hill, this modern Nantucket is a blend of classic architecture with clean lines and fun accents of navy and brass. Designed with an active family in mind, this home is the perfect setting for large gatherings and family get-togethers.
Settled in the Sharingbrook neighborhood, Chuck and Susie Grier’s newly remodeled home expanded its original footprint by adding a primary suite on the main level. The working butler’s kitchen and multi-dining spaces are perfect for entertaining. The home’s curated art and family antiques help make it an inviting and comfortable place.
The StoneHouse, one-half mile outside of Manhattan on Anderson Avenue, is an exquisite 1860s guest residence that has been elegantly restored with today’s modern amenities. The limestone estate creates an intimate retreat-like environment that is both restful and inspiring. The 150-year-old hand-hewn timber beams, a kitchen with a large farmhouse center island and 48-inch Italian range, as well as original floors, vaulted ceilings and an elegantly landscaped courtyard paired with a roofless barn patio and a spring-fed pond, make for a truly distinctive experience.
The variety of homes and decorations will offer inspiration to tour-goers. Tickets will be $25 in advance, $30 at the door, and will go on sale later this fall. Chairing this event is Julie Keenan.
