On Friday, May 19, 2017, Seattle Repertory Theatre threw their annual fundraising gala, Deconstructed, which drew 260 enthusiastic patrons and netted a record-breaking $780,000, shattering previous records. The Rep’s glamorous event took place on the set of their spectacular production Here Lies Love, complete with champagne-pouring aerialists, go-go dancers, and the cast of Here Lies Love performing a rousing dance number. The dinner, auction, and Raise the Paddle giving event were set in the Rep’s production shop, completely transformed with vine-bedecked chandeliers and sparkling dinnerware, and even a “deconstructed” menu courtesy of City Catering. Longtime Rep subscribers Allan and Nora Davis were recognized for their 50 years of dedication to the theatre and they responded with a surprise $50k contribution to honor the evening. Managing Director Jeffrey Herrmann and Artistic Director Braden Abraham spoke passionately about how theatre serves as a mechanism for bringing people together, and how it builds community through art, and this year, the patrons answered with their overwhelmingly warm support.