The New Children’s Museum welcomed 525 guests and brought in over $750K at its Circus Spectacular fundraising gala co-chaired by Ellen Moxham, Jennifer Luce and Laurie Mitchell. Proceeds from the November 5 event support the Museum’s access programs providing free or discounted admission for 30% of its visitors, ensuring more children in San Diego can experience art and play.

Known for its themed galas, The New Children’s Museum completely transformed into a circus, with guests dressed in “circus chic” attire being entertained by pop up performances including jugglers, stilt walkers, a tightrope walker, a silk aerialist and more.

Outside on Island Avenue, gala guests were able to ride on a 40-foot lighted Ferris wheel with spectacular views of the Museum and downtown skyline. Other highlights included guests trying their hand at carnival games, singing karaoke in the Museum’s art installation, Teatro Piñata, and dancing the night away to live music by ’80s band BetaMAXX.

“The incredible turnout and record funds raised at this year’s event demonstrates the tremendous community support of The New Children’s Museum and belief in the importance of providing access to art for all children in San Diego,” said Elizabeth Yang-Hellewell, Executive Director and CEO of The New Children’s Museum.

The Museum also hosted an art auction featuring work by several nationally renowned artists, including Ryan McGinness, Michelle Montjoy, Eva Struble, Regan Russell, David Reynoso, Marisol Rendón, Ingram Ober, Wes Bruce, Christian Garcia-Olivo, Carlos Castro Arias, Andrea Chung, Ernest Silva, Jennifer Luce, Katie Ruiz, and Louis M. Schmidt. Artists in attendance at the event included Marisol Rendón (Wobbleland), Michelle Montjoy (Breathing Room), Regan Russell (Energized), Ingram Ober, Christian Garcia-Olivo, and event co-chair Jennifer Luce.

Presenting sponsors were the Albatross Foundation and Maryanne and Irwin Pfister.