Un Gala in Maschera

1. What is a Virtual Gala?

Un Gala in Maschera is the online version of Merola’s annual Spring Benefit Gala. Since we can’t currently gather in-person, we’re bringing the party directly to you! You’ll enjoy all the entertainment of our traditional Benefit Gala from the comfort of your own home, including a special tribute to our beloved Sheri Greenawald.

2. How can I attend Un Gala in Maschera?

You can purchase your ticket by clicking here. You’ll receive an automatic confirmation from our partner, Accelevents.

You’ll receive your viewing information via email shortly before the event. All you’ll need to do then is click the link and join the party!

3. How long is the Virtual Gala?

Un Gala in Maschera will last approximately 90 minutes. All those who donate $2,500 or more to the Fund a Need, either in advance or the night of the event, can also attend a virtual after-party with artists on Zoom.

4. Do I have to be a Merola member to attend?

Anyone can purchase a ticket to Un Gala in Maschera. In fact, your ticket purchase will automatically be credited to Merola membership, so if you’re not a current Merola member, your attendance will make you one. Purchase of a Regular ticket ($64) or a Young Patron ticket ($25) entitles you to membership at the Basic level. Purchase of a Premium ticket ($125) entitles you to membership at the Founder level.

If you’re already a Merola member, the value of your ticket purchase will be applied to your existing membership credit.

5. Can I buy a ticket for someone else?

Absolutely! Your additional ticket purchase makes a great gift for a music-loving friend or family member, and it’s also a wonderful way to introduce someone to Merola. If you’re buying a ticket for someone else, please be sure to contact the Merola office at (415) 936-2311/akessler@merola.org with the name and email address of the recipient so they’ll be registered as an attendee and receive event updates.

6. When should I buy my ticket?

You can purchase your ticket right up to the day of the Benefit Gala, Saturday, April 10. However, we recommend you make your purchase at least several days beforehand so you don’t miss any event updates. If you register any time after Friday, April 9, or do not receive your viewing link by 10:00 am (PDT) on Gala day, please email info@merola.org for the link.

7. Having trouble seeing the “Buy Tickets” button on the Gala page?

Check to see if all of your pop-up blockers are off. Watch this video for some general troubleshooting tips.

8. How do I get to the event?

Un Gala in Maschera will stream on Vimeo. You can view the event on any device of your choice: desktop, laptop, tablet, smartphones. Merola will send you a viewing link prior to the event, which starts at 5:00 PM (PDT). Be sure to log in at 4:45 pm (PDT) for the pre-show, featuring music and special memories of Sheri!

9. Will other people be able to see me during the event?

No. The Gala itself is a one-way viewing experience, and you won’t be seen or heard. However, if you attend the Zoom after-party, you will be visible and audible.

10. How can I enhance the evening’s experience?

Our friends at Culinary Excellence have created these special meals to enjoy during Un Gala in Maschera. Meals may be purchased directly from Culinary Excellence and are separate from tickets to the event.

To set the party mood, why not hold a pre-or post-event party via Zoom or any other platform you prefer? You can gather with your friends or family who are also attending Un Gala in Maschera, don your chosen party attire, and raise a glass (virtual or otherwise) to honor Sheri!

11. Where can I follow Un Gala in Maschera on social media?

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Share your photos on social media and use the hashtags #MEROLAGALA and #MASCHERA2021

12. What is the Sheri Fund?

To honor Sheri Greenawald, this year’s Fund-a-Need will benefit two of her passions:

✺ The Sheri Greenawald Endowment Fund -- A permanent legacy in Sheri’s honor that will provide support for Merola distinguished faculty (gifts of $500 and above)

✺ The Sheri Greenawald Artists Support Fund -- A fund that will support a living stipend for the 2021 Merola young artists (gifts under $500)

13. Is my gift tax-deductible?

Yes! Your donation is 100% tax-deductible as allowed by law. You’ll receive a written acknowledgment letter from Merola after the event for your tax purposes.

14. Do I have to attend the Gala to donate?

No – you may make a donation to the Sheri Fund before or after the event by clicking here or by contacting Amy Kessler at (415) 936-2311. You can also maximize your gift’s impact by asking your employer to match your donation.

15. How do I donate during the event?

On Gala night, there will be three ways you can submit donations to the Fund a Need:

✺ Give by Click: click the “Pledge” button (located below the concert video) to make a donation.
✺ Give by Text: use your phone to text (817) 697-7938 with the Fund a Need item’s three letter code and donation amount. ex: EFD$500 or ASF$100
✺ Give by Voice: call the Merola phone number on your screen and a staff member will submit your donation on your behalf.

16. I’d rather work with a human being to make my donation. How do I do that?

You can phone the Merola office at (415) 936-2311, Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5PM (PDT).

17. What if I want to make my donation by a method other than a credit card?

No problem! You can mail a check to the Merola office from your personal or business account; you can arrange for a donation from your Donor-Advised Fund; or you may make a gift of stock. Call Amy Kessler at (415) 936-2311 for details.

18. Having technical difficulties?

Email info@merola.org.