Theater calls on ‘Power of Love’ to raise money

By Haley DiFonzo

Broadway Dallas welcomed more than 380 Dallas leaders, philanthropists and lovers of the arts to celebrate the magic of musical theater at Broadway Dallas’ 2025 Gala featuring a full performance of “Back to The Future: The Musical,” raising a record-breaking $1.1 million in support of Broadway Dallas’ education and community outreach programs.

The Music Hall’s Crystal Terrace dining room was transformed into a creative, modern version of the 1980s. Sophisticated neons, clean lines, scientific energy and the “Power of Love” for Broadway made the space a spectacle to see. During dinner, guests were treated to a performance of “The Power of Love” by Damson Chola Jr., deemed Best High School Actor in the Country at the national JIMMY Awards and winner of the Broadway Dallas 2024 National High School Musical Theatre Awards, and 25 students from Damson’s alma mater, Cleburn High School, who participate annually in Broadway Dallas’ High School Musical Theatre Awards (HSTMA). 

Then, paddles throughout the room began to rise in a thrilling live auction sponsored by The Rosewood Corporation.

Gala proceeds support the nonprofit’s mission to spread the gift of Broadway to more than 60,000 students and their families each year, including 6,800 Dallas County students. This September, students will experience a Broadway production at the Music Hall and STEM curriculum in their classrooms inspired by the show, and more than 5,000 students from 81 schools will participate in the Broadway Dallas High School Musical Theatre Awards.

In 2022, Dallas Summer Musicals changed its name to Broadway Dallas. Since 1941, the non-profit Broadway Dallas has presented the Best of Broadway to North Texas audiences. Located in the historic Music Hall at Fair Park, Broadway Dallas promotes excellence in live musical theatre with year-round performances for diverse audiences of all ages, impacting the lives of children and families through education and community outreach programs, while enriching the cultural landscape of North Texas and the Southwest Region.

 As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Broadway Dallas relies on a variety of funding sources to offer affordable ticket prices, preserve the beautiful historic theatre, educate young audiences and develop impactful community programs.

For more information about Broadway Dallas, visit BroadwayDallas.org.