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Today's Hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | 316.263.1311
Today's Hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | 316.263.1311
Apr
27
The MOWT Gala 2024

The MOWT Gala Annual Fundraiser

Saturday, April 27, 2024 | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Tickets: $100-$150

Jump To: Tickets | VIP Hour | Dinner | Activities | What to Wear | Sponsors

buy TICKETS


 

event overview

 

Get ready for an unforgettable evening at the second annual MOWT Gala! As our biggest fundraiser of the year, this event is dedicated to supporting our educational mission - to provide a gateway to the past which educates, entertains, and inspires lifelong learning. Join us for an elegant affair, themed around the sophistication of the 1910s and the artistic flair of Art Nouveau. Be sure to get a ticket and prepare to indulge in an evening of sophistication, all for a cause that enriches minds and enriches lives.

 


 

The Evening's Activities

 

VIP Hour

Join us for an exclusive cocktail hour filled with anticipation and sophistication. Immerse yourself in captivating entertainment while enjoying the privilege of early access. VIPs will also receive a commemorative glass with complimentary wine service.

Featured Performer - Christian Manahl of Discord Illusions

 Christian is a magician and comedian based in Wichita, Kansas with a style of silly, irreverent humor and engaging modern magic that will leave any audience laughing and astonished. No stale jokes or dated tricks - Christian delivers top tier entertainment, every time.
 

dinner

Doors open for general admission at 6:00 pm. 

 Live Chef Station

Indulge in culinary excellence at The MOWT Gala with our LIVE Chef Station presented by Blue Moon Caterers! Watch as our talented chefs prepare a mouthwatering Caribbean Saute right before your eyes, featuring an array of meats, vegetables, fruits, sauces, and starches to customize your plate. Don't forget to satisfy your sweet tooth at our dessert table, complete with a mesmerizing chocolate fountain.

 

 

Featured Cocktail - EMPRESS 75

Enjoy a beer, wine, and our featured cocktail Empress 75 at the evening's open bar "The Gismonda." A cocktail made for celebration, the Empress 75 is sparkling, effervescent and deliciously sippable. Think of it as a graduated mimosa.

 

 

DINNER keynote Speaker: Marla Day

Dress for Success: Nelly Don and American Fashion

You can’t mention 20th-century women’s wear without thinking of Nelly Don. The Parsons native built a fashion empire on the vision that women deserved affordable, stylish clothing regardless of means or status. From humble beginnings, Don built a company that treated her workforce of women fairly, brought fashion to millions of American women, and became the largest dressmaker of the century. Ellen “Nell” Quinlan Donnelly’s story is one of innovation, triumph, and hard work—all rooted in her small-town Kansas upbringing. 

Activities

 

One-Night-Only-Exhibit

American Lady Disrupted: A Glimpse Into the mid-century woman

During this one-night-only exhibit, enjoy a microscopic look at the evolution of womanhood throughout the 1930s, 40s, and 50s. Beginning with a young woman grappling to balance the societal expectations of previous generations and the life that she sees ahead of her, this exhibit chronicles the disruption of World War II on young lives and the changing roles women played in the American population.

Go ahead and step into her shoes…”

 

 

Silent & Live Auction

Bid on unique items, showcasing treasures and experiences. These beautiful Swarovski crystal purses and several vacation packages will be available for purchase during the live auction and packages from a variety of local businesses will be available during the silent auction.

 

Live Music

Experience the enchanting melodies of Anne Yap I-Shyuen, a talented pianist and violinist, who has garnered accolades on the competition circuit and is currently studying under Dr. Julie Bees at Wichita State University. With a passion for music and community service, Anne's performances transcend borders, bringing joy and inspiration to audiences worldwide.

 


 

What to Wear

Formal attire is encouraged! Choose an outfit that mirrors your unique style, whether it's the sophistication of a classic gown, the sharpness of a suit, or a creative blend of both. For an extra touch of glamour, feel free to draw inspiration from The MOWT Gala's 1910s and Art Nouveau theme. The stage is yours to express yourself in a way that makes this evening truly yours.

�� View the "What to Wear" Pintrest Board for Inspiration

Special offer! $10 off per tux rental for all MOWT Gala guests at Dress Gallery. Call (316) 264‑6688 to schedule your fitting today! Dress Gallery's wide variety of rental tuxedo & suits styles guarantees you’ll find something both you & your date will love.

Visit Dress Gallery's Website to Schedule A Fitting

 


 

Tickets

 

BUY TICKETS

 

VIP Ticket - $150

VIP attendees' evening begins at 5:00pm and includes all General Admission Benefits PLUS:

  • VIP Hour from 5pm-6pm
  • Comedy Magic Show with Christian Manahl of Discord Illusions
  • Commemorative Glass

 

General Admission - $100

General Admission attendees' evening begins at 6:00pm and includes all General Admission Benefits PLUS:

  • Dinner with Live Chef's Station
  • Open Bar "The Gismonda" with beer, wine, and featured cocktail, the Empress 75.
  • Keynote Address with Marla Day
  • Access to an Exclusive One-Night-Only Exhibit
  • Live Piano Music with Anne Yap I-Shyuen
  • Live and Silent Auction

 


 

Sponsors

 

Cash Sponsors

Lorna Kardatzke

 

In-Kind Sponsors

 

 

Entertainment and vendors

Marla Day | Anne Yap

Additional Support & partners

 

 

Interested in a cash sponsorship? In-kind donation for the raffle or silent auction?

Sponsorship Forms Contact Development Department