Ocala’s Reilly Arts Center surpasses fundraising goal
Gala event raises more than $140K to support community access to the arts.
The Reilly Arts Center, Ocala’s largest music arts venue, celebrated a successful fundraising gala on Feb. 13, exceeding its goal of raising $125,000 and bringing in more than $140,000 to support its mission of providing access to the arts for the community.
“The Reilly Arts Center is an important part of my life and the lives of many others in Ocala. It represents a commitment to diversity, unity and quality of life, reminding us of the power of the arts to connect, inspire and uplift. Through its offerings, the Reilly not only enriches our cultural experience but also strengthens the fabric of our community, making it a cherished gem that I will always support and advocate for,” wrote Angie Lewis, chair of the center’s board of directors, following the event.
The fundraising efforts come at a crucial time for the arts in Florida, following Gov. Ron DeSantis’ veto of $26 million in state arts funding for the 2024-2025 cycle. The 2025-2026 budget similarly slashed funding for arts organizations across the state. This has led to an even greater need for arts organizations like the Reilly Arts Center to have a sustaining base of local supporters.
“At a time when local investment in the arts is so critical, our community truly stepped up to meaningfully contribute to the work we do every day. We feel privileged to be a part of the cultural fabric of Ocala, growing our programming and educational outreach as our community grows with it,” Natalie McComb, the Reilly’s executive director, wrote to attendees in a follow up “thank you” email.
The Reilly Arts Center is a 705-seat venue located just five blocks from Ocala’s Historic Downtown Square, inside Tuscawilla Park. The venue serves as home to the Ocala Symphony Orchestra in addition to providing spaces utilized for a diverse array of events, concerts, meetings and celebrations.
The Reilly also is home to the Community Music Conservatory, which was launched in Spring 2022 and offers group classes and private instruction in music for students of all ages and skill levels. The conservatory provides teaching studios, professional staff and faculty.
Jack Covell, from the conservatory, introduced attendees of the gala to the emerging talent of Hector Martinez-Johnson, 16, a student at Trinity Catholic High School. The teacher and student performed “Naima,” by John Coltrane and “Four,” by Miles Davis.
McComb indicated that the need is great for continuing sponsorships since many students want to continue their music studies after their sponsored year ends but are without the means to pay for them.
The enthusiastic generous spirit of gala participants also fueled the Ocala Symphony Orchestra’s weekend performances of “Sound and Fury” on Feb. 15 and 16. The performances featured Mendelssohn’s “Hebrides Overture,” Anna Clyne’s “Sound and Fury,” with Ocala Civic Theatre Artistic Director Greg Thompson reciting a portion of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” to the music, and concluded with Beethoven’s “Eroica” symphony.
“Last night’s Ocala Symphony performance was truly one of my favorite experiences on the podium,” said Matthew Wardell, conductor of the OSO and music director for the Reilly. “Being surrounded by musicians who have become dear parts of my life over the last 16 years, in front of an audience who is so incredibly supportive of their orchestra, and bringing so much energy and vitality to three great works, was truly a night I will not forget. I love performing and it’s always fun, but some just stick with you.”
To learn more about the center, including ways to offer support, go to reillyartscenter. com
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