The Rye Arts Center Celebrates Arts, Self-Expression, and Community at Studio 51
The Rye Arts Center’s annual benefit, Studio 51, lit up The Capitol Theatre on May 15, drawing over 300 guests and raising over $320,000. All net proceeds will support The Rye Arts Center’s mission to provide accessible, high-quality arts education and programming to the community.
“The arts are not optional; they are essential. Essential to our very core. Throughout communities, the arts uplift, energize and heal.” Said Adam Levi, Rye Arts Center Executive Director and one of the night’s honorees. “There is a full-on assault currently happening to the arts landscape across our country. Funding for museums, galleries, and arts centers like ours is rapidly disappearing, leaving an uncertain future for so many. This is why the support of our community is so critical in this moment.”
Inspired by the glamour of Studio 54, the evening blended music, art, and unfiltered creativity into one unforgettable celebration. Guests were welcomed with a vibrant cocktail hour featuring signature cocktails, delicious bites by Marcia Selden Catering, and a retro-cool DJ set. The iconic Capitol Theatre was transformed with glamorous lounges, swanky lighting, and a packed dance floor. It even featured a curated gallery showcasing original works by local artists connected to The Rye Arts Center.
The energy peaked during a spirited live auction hosted by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Kyle Brandt. Guests waved fiber optic glow wands—replacing traditional paddles—for a twist worthy of the venue. With enthusiastic bidding and playful competition, the auction became one of the night’s most talked-about highlights, featuring exclusive experiences and one-of-a-kind items.
“It’s wonderful to see how deeply the Rye Arts Center connects with our community, spanning generations and diverse interests. The fundraiser brought everyone together to support our shared passion for the arts,” said Event Co-Chairs Whitney Whipple and Leah Rapoport.
The celebration continued with immersive décor, live music, and a heartfelt awards ceremony. Honored for his 25 years of visionary leadership, Executive Director Adam Levi was recognized alongside longtime supporters Laurie & Rob Platek and Rob & Nicole Weber. Acclaimed painter Jill Parry received the Visionary Artist Award—only the second artist ever to be honored.
“Studio 51 wasn’t just a fundraiser; it was an expression of tremendous community support for our beloved Arts Center – for what it is today and what it will be in the future”, said Board President Tom Stokes.
The night concluded with a high-octane dance party as Rubix Kube, the ultimate ’80s tribute band, transformed The Capitol Theatre into a neon-lit time machine.
The Rye Arts Center had the support of a record number of sponsors for this event, including lead sponsors; Andrew Belluscio of A&M Management & Construction, longtime supporter Fiona Dogan, Consigli Construction, Julia B Fee, Ryemarkable Moms, Carpet Trends, Smart Playrooms, and MKDA. Another six local businesses contributed as “Friends of the Arts” Sponsors, including The Osbourne, Langan, Rye Ballet Conservatory, Landsberg Jewelers, Kings Capitol Construction, and Patti Neave of Compass’s April, May, June team.
For more information or to donate, visit www.ryeartscenter.org.