Dress to impress!

All proceeds from the evening support our annual year-end fundraiser to help sustain the arts for another 20 years to come!

For all first-time donors, buying a ticket gets you a FREE YEAR of Englert membership! Get access to advanced presales and discounted tickets to almost all Englert Presents shows in 2025 with the purchase of an Emerald Ball ticket.

As part of our long-running commitment to increase access to arts programming for youth and young professionals, anyone under the age of 30 gets 50% off their ticket!

If you are a current member, a former Englert staff or board member, or one of our community partners, please contact [email protected] for information on discounted prices.

Your ticket to the Englert’s 20th Anniversary Emerald Ball includes:

• ✨ A stunning portrait taken by Jason Smith in front of an emerald backdrop
• Delicious hors d’oeuvres provided by Bread Garden
•  Exclusive Perks for Members: Enjoy two complimentary drink tickets
•  Special Offer for First-Time Donors: Join the celebration and receive a free year of membership with your donation!
• Doors open at 6:30pm
• Afterparty begins at 10:00pm

The Englert Theatre invites the community to its 20th Anniversary Emerald Ball, a glamorous celebration of two decades as a cornerstone of Iowa City’s arts scene. The event, which takes place on Friday, December 20, promises an evening of elegance, entertainment, and opportunities to support the arts.

Doors open at 6:30 PM, welcoming guests to a night that features delicious hors d’oeuvres and amazing performances. The Emerald Ball will feature a lineup of dazzling performances, including live music by Deb Talan, the Dunn Quartet, and captivating performance art by Luther Bangert. From 10pm to midnight, there will be a dance party on stage with a DJ set by Ahzia.

“This milestone is not just a celebration of the Englert’s past but a reflection of the vibrant community that makes this work possible,” said Executive Director John Schickedanz. “The Emerald Ball is our way of honoring the supporters, artists, and patrons who’ve kept the arts alive and thriving in Iowa City.”

Development Director Paige Harwell Samek added,  “This event is truly a community celebration – a testament to the many local businesses and artists who have generously contributed to our silent auction and grab bags, the performers with deep roots in Iowa City, and the incredible Englert staff whose teamwork brings these events to life. Your participation helps sustain our mission to provide inclusive, engaging arts experiences for everyone. Together, we’re building a stronger foundation for the next generation of artists and audiences. We have so much to celebrate, and I hope you’ll join us.”

This year, in honor of expanding access to the arts, the event offers a 50% discount on tickets for attendees under 30. First-time donors will also receive a free year of membership, granting them access to exclusive presales and discounts on 2025 Englert Presents shows.

All proceeds from the Emerald Ball will benefit The Englert’s annual fundraising efforts, ensuring the theater’s ability to nurture local talent and provide outstanding programming for another 20 years.

Tickets are now available. For more information or to secure your spot, visit The Englert’s website.

Thank you to our sponsors: Field Day Brewing, Hands Jewelers, Willow & Stock, and Ulysses Modern, for making this memorable evening possible.