Each November at Darkness to Light we have our “Circle of Light Gala.” The Circle of Light Gala is always an unforgettable evening of fine wine, gourmet cuisine, and breathtaking entertainment. This black tie affair takes place underneath the stars in Marion Square with Charleston’s premier chefs showing off their culinary talents. Best of all, the event raises hundreds of thousands of dollars to prevent child sexual abuse. 
Our Circle of Light Gala is consistently voted the best party in Charleston and it never fails to impress. This year our theme is “Passage to India: Bollywood Bound! Bollywood films are known for pop music and exuberant dance scenes featuring scores of dancers dressed in dazzling Indian costumes. This years Circle of Light Gala will capture this lively atmosphere with exotic décor and Bollywood-style entertainment.
On Thursday, November 19, 2009, Marion Square transforms into a full-blown Bollywood production. This glamorous evening begins with a cocktail party at 6:30 with specialty drinks for guests arriving in the port of Mumbia. Guests will enjoy a silent auction and entertainment. Street vendors, henna artists and exotic performers will engage guests in high energy acts.
Charleston’s most talented and generous chefs will prepare dinner for 630 guests under the main event tent. Once again, PDA‘s spectacular visual displays and Soiree’s breathtaking décor will transport guests three-thousand miles away from Charleston.The night features traditional Indian music and dancers. The dinner hour ends with a high spirit performance by belly dancers.
Guests will place their bid on the many luxurious live auction items including vacations to Cabo San Lucas, Montana and Saint Marteen. Golf lovers will vie for the golf package that includes rounds at the top private courses in the area, including Briar Creek and Bull’s Bay.
Following dinner and the conclusion of the live auction, the evening kicks into full party mode as our Bollywood dancers take the floor to kick the party up to the next level. Our favorite DJ returns from last year’s successful Studio 54 after party. DJ C. Nile promises to take the Bollywood theme on a nightlong ride of fun.
Over the past seven years, the Circle of Light Gala has raised over 2 million dollars towards Darkness to Light’s mission. This national nonprofit organization educates adults to prevent, recognize and react responsibly to child sexual abuse. They are now serving communities in 48 states and 9 countries.
For more information on the Gala or Darkness to Light, please contact Rebecca Gosnell at bgosnell@D2L.org or call 843-965-5444 ext 21.
