WaterFire’s FireBall Gala: Phoenix Rising Set for October 16 at the WaterFire Arts Center

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, September 24, 2025

Media Contact
Kellie J. Martin, Manager of Community and Corporate Relations
kellie@waterfire.org | 401.443.5534

WaterFire’s FireBall Gala: Phoenix Rising Set for October 16 at the WaterFire Arts Center
Tickets and Sponsorships Still Available

Providence, RI - On Thursday, October 16, 2025, the WaterFire Arts Center will host the FireBall Gala: Phoenix Rising, WaterFire Providence’s 9th annual gala and fundraiser. This inspiring evening will bring together more than 400 guests for a celebration of art, community, and impact in support of WaterFire’s mission.

In 2025, WaterFire rises, renewed like a phoenix from the ashes. This year’s FireBall Gala, Phoenix Rising, celebrates transformation, resilience, and the beginning of a bold new chapter for WaterFire Providence.

"FireBall is always a glorious evening where we thank our many donors, partners, and sponsors while we celebrate some of our community's greatest leaders. Please join us for this celebration, as it is a critical investment in WaterFire's future. FireBall continues our engagement with transformative experiences. Your support helps ensure that WaterFire will remain a crucial part of Providence for years to come," says Barnaby Evans, Executive Artistic Director of WaterFire Providence.

Guests will enjoy a red carpet welcome, a seated dinner by Russell Morin Catering & Events, the presentation of WaterFire Impact Awards, performances, and a closing party with dessert, DJ, and dancing. Attire is Black Tie Optional, with guests encouraged to embrace the “Feathers and Flames” dress theme. 

Performances include storytelling, live music, dance, and pop-up glow performances by community favorites Rhode Island Black StorytellersCirque de LightRevolve Dance Project, and more. 

The evening will also include an awards ceremony for the 2025 FireBall Honorees. The amazing Rhode Islanders being honored are Malcolm G. Chase III and Family, Cortney Nicolato, J.L. “Lynn” Singleton, and Valerie Tutson. Their dedication to the community has shown impacts across all fronts.

Every ticket purchase directly supports WaterFire’s mission to inspire Providence and beyond through world-class art installations, community programming, and accessible cultural experiences.

Events Details
Thursday, October 16, 2025
WaterFire Arts Center, 475 Valley Street, Providence
Tickets: $175 Gala (7 PM - 10 PM) and $325 VIP Reception & Gala (6 PM - 10 PM) 
Tickets will remain on sale until October 9 or until sold out.
https://waterfire.org/fireball 

2025 FireBall Sponsors
Russell Morin Catering and EventsRhode Island MonthlyHigh Output; Barbara Sokoloff and Herb Rakatansky; Bank of AmericaDimeo ConstructionAT CrossLatina 100.3 FMBOATSLisa Corrado DesignStarkweather & ShepleyGoProvidenceUnited Parking Valet; Michael and Beth Huber; Luke Renchan EntertainmentThe Industrious Spirit Company; Arnell Millhouse; H3O Productions; Elaine and Barry Fain; Papitto Opportunity ConnectionGather Glass and Gather Ice CreamImage PrintingPranzi Catering & EventsBrassard EventsUnited Way of Rhode Island; and Providence Drum Troupe.

Committee Chair
Margaret Brassard

Host Committee
Jude Amoako; Sara Firetto; Erin Hanson; Sean Holley; Chris Morra; Angie Santana, and Hilda Vargas.

Honorary Committee
Kristen Adamo; Mark Allan; Ting Barnard; Kate Bramson; Ed Cabral and Tripp Evans; Russ Cooney; Barnaby Evans; Chris Marsella; Emily Martineau; Lt. Governor Sabina Matos; Audrey McClellend; Charlie Meyers; Rosanna Ortiz; Diana Rochefort; Ann Scott; Rick Simone; Robert A. Walsh Jr.; Joe Wilson Jr., and Vicki Veh.

Media Resources
FireBall Graphics & Photo Collection
More information about FireBall can be found on our website: https://waterfire.org/fireball
Tickets can be purchased here: https://events.humanitix.com/9th-annual-fireball-gala

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About WaterFire Providence
WaterFire Providence® is an independent, 501(c)3 non-profit arts organization whose mission is to inspire Providence and its visitors by revitalizing the urban experience, fostering community engagement, and creatively transforming the city by presenting WaterFire for all to enjoy. Each year nearly 1 million people come to downtown Providence to experience WaterFire contributing over $149,000,000 to the local economy, generating over $9,000,000 of direct tax revenue for the State of Rhode Island and supporting 1,294 jobs for community residents and strengthening Providence’s Creative Capital and Rhode Island’s State for the Arts brands. For information about WaterFire Providence and the WaterFire Arts Center visit https://waterfire.org/

About the WaterFire Arts Center
WaterFire Providence purchased the Art Center in 2012 and began rehabilitation for the vacant, historic, industrial building in the underserved Olneyville/Valley neighborhood of Providence. The 37,000 sq. ft. multi-use arts center has become WaterFire’s first permanent home in the community and serves as its headquarters, production complex, and a multi-purpose arts venue as well as a social enterprise platform strengthening the organization’s long-term financial sustainability. Exhibitions presented at WaterFire Arts Center will further the organization’s agenda of providing arts and culture opportunities and experiences for all, regardless of social, cultural, or economic background. For more information about the WaterFire Arts Center including rental inquiries, please visit: https://waterfire.org/wfac