Blacklight Productions Presents First-Ever Masquerade Gala
Backlight Productions, Tennessee’s leading theatre company for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), will host its inaugural fundraising gala on Saturday, Oct. 26, at Liberty Hall in The Factory at Franklin.
The event will be staged as a Phantom of the Opera-inspired masquerade ball. Guests are invited to wear cocktail attire and masks for an evening that will feature dinner, drinks, a silent auction, and a program of live performances. Highlights will include selections from Backlight’s past productions, appearances by local artists, and a special performance by two-time Tony Award® nominee Laura Osnes.
The gala is a first for Backlight Productions, which has been serving the Middle Tennessee community since 2013. Founded as a nonprofit organization, its mission is to provide opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to explore and participate in the arts. Over the past decade, Backlight has staged numerous public productions, often integrating its participants with professional artists to create inclusive, high-quality theatre.
In addition to public productions, Backlight runs a schedule of weekly classes in theatre, music, and dance. The organization also offers an apprenticeship program, designed to equip participants with practical skills in stagecraft and performance. But its classes aren’t limited to adults — It’s newly introduced Blacklight Production Kids aims to create a “safe and supportive environment for young performers”. Make sure to keep an eye out for their appearances in The Sound of Music and The Chronicles of Narnia this season!
Sponsorship opportunities and individual tickets remain available for those wishing to be part of this inaugural event. For businesses and individuals alike, it’s an opportunity to support Tennessee’s vibrant art community while enjoying an exciting night. Proceeds will support existing programming and help expand Backlight’s mission across Middle Tennessee.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, October 26, 2025
- Location: Liberty Hall, The Factory at Franklin
- Theme: Phantom of the Opera Masquerade Ball (cocktail attire and masks encouraged)
Schedule of Events
- 5:30pm – Check-In & Cocktails
- 6:00pm – Dinner
- 6:30pm – World Class Entertainment featuring Broadway’s best, local professionals and Backlight artists
- 8:00pm – Auction Closes
The event details and schedule is provided directly by Blacklight Productions, and are subject to change. For more information, visit backlightproductions.org.
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Nastassja is a Hong Kong native who called Boston home for 7 years. She graduated with a BS in Journalism from Emerson College and is currently located in Fort Smith, Arkansas. When she isn’t writing or reading, you can find her crocheting and spending time with her husband, dog, and two cats.
