Cast members and guests pose in costume during The Acting Company’s inaugural Bard’s Ball in 2025. The masquerade-style fundraiser returns March 28 at the Tri-Counties Community Center in Marysville, supporting the nonprofit theater’s productions and community arts programs. Photo courtesy of The Acting Company

MARYSVILLE, CA (MPG) - Theater lovers and community supporters are invited to step into a world of masks, music and imagination when The Acting Company hosts its second annual Bard’s Ball on Saturday, March 28, at the Tri-Counties Community Center in Marysville.

The masquerade-style fundraiser, scheduled from 5 p.m. to midnight, will feature an evening of theatrical entertainment, interactive activities and elegant festivities designed to support the nonprofit theater organization’s productions and arts programs.

Now in its 42nd season, The Acting Company continues its mission of enriching the Yuba-Sutter community through live performing arts. Proceeds from the Bard’s Ball help sustain that mission by supporting future productions, educational opportunities and community programming. Organizers say guests can expect a lively and immersive atmosphere inspired by the spirit of Shakespeare and classic masquerade celebrations.

The evening will feature live theatrical performances, along with hors d’oeuvres, desserts and complimentary beverages. Guests will also be able to participate in interactive experiences such as a scavenger hunt and trivia games, as well as compete in a masquerade costume contest and try their luck in a door-prize raffle. Each attendee will also receive a commemorative glass as part of the evening’s festivities.

Attendees are encouraged to embrace the theme with creative costumes or masquerade masks, though formal attire is also welcome. Photos from last year’s inaugural Bard’s Ball show guests embracing the theme with elaborate costumes ranging from Renaissance nobles to woodland fairies and masked characters inspired by fantasy and Shakespearean lore. Organizers say the playful creativity and immersive atmosphere are part of what make the event unique, encouraging attendees to step outside the ordinary for an evening of theater-inspired celebration.

The event will take place at the Tri-Counties Community Center, 1830 B St. in Marysville. Tickets are available at several levels including presale tickets for $40 and $50 tickets at the door, subject to availability. Group tables and sponsorship opportunities are also available. Organizers say community support is vital to keeping local theater thriving.

“By attending or donating, you directly support The Acting Company’s mission to inspire, educate and bring exceptional performances to our community,” organizers shared in the event announcement.

Tickets and additional information are available at www.actingcompany.org.