Why This Year's Gala Will Be Wickedly Transformational

There's No Place Like Hope

After a record-shattering evening in November 2024 that turned the Connecticut Convention Center into a candy-colored dreamscape worthy of Willy Wonka himself, it might seem impossible to top last year's Gala. 

But on November 8, 2025, we’re headed somewhere even more magical. Somewhere over the rainbow. Somewhere that proves—even in the darkest storms—children can rise, heal, and soar.

This year, we're getting Wicked.

Get ready to be spellbound at the JohnsonBrunetti Connecticut Children’s Foundation Gala, presented by SouthOcean Capital Partners and ROTHA, where the power of philanthropy meets the wonder of Oz in a dazzling evening that defies gravity. This one-night-only experience—already a five-time Best of Hartford winner for Best Charity Event—unites more than 1,100 passionate supporters, from generous donors to inspiring care families, all committed to transforming the future of pediatric healthcare.

Journey into Oz for an enchanting dinner and Gala program that’s sure to lift your spirits higher than a hot air balloon ride. Be inspired by courageous patient stories and dazzled by Wicked performances by Broadway stars Katie Rose Clarke (Glinda), Jessica Vosk (Elphaba), and Derek Klena (Fiyero). Ticketed attendees have the exclusive opportunity to register for the exclusive Sky-High Reception, where guests will mix-and-mingle and enjoy photo opportunities with our Broadway guests; ESPN personalities, Elle Duncan, Field Yates, Dan Orlovsky, and Hannah Storm; Sirens actress, Meghan O’Leary-Clark, the Connecticut Children’s Executive Management Team and additional celebrity guests (to be announced).

From Emerald City to Unmatched Impact

Last year’s Gala raised an astounding $2.68 million, thanks to the incredible generosity of our community. Guests were treated to a golden night filled with celebrity cameos, live performances, magical giveaways, and a record-setting Bid for Kids appeal, supporting the launch of our cutting-edge Advanced Cellular & Gene Therapy Unit.

It was an evening bursting with joy, purpose, and pure imagination.

A New Chapter in the Land of Oz

This November, the curtain rises on a new chapter, one where every guest becomes a part of something greater. Set against the enchanting backdrop of Wicked, the JohnsonBrunetti Connecticut Children’s Foundation Gala, presented by SouthOcean Capital Partners and ROTHA, invites you to step behind the curtain and help transform the future of pediatric care at Connecticut Children’s. Expect spellbinding performances, once-in-a-lifetime auction packages, heart-stirring patient stories, and surprises worthy of Glinda herself.

Giving with Heart—and Brains and Courage, Too

Your support doesn’t just fund exceptional care—it gives children and families the courage to take the next step on their journey. From breakthrough research and innovative therapies to family-centered programs and healing spaces, your generosity helps Connecticut Children’s remain a place where hope always wins.

So polish your ruby slippers because, on November 8, 2025, we'll follow the yellow brick road straight to the heart of something extraordinary.

When it comes to children’s health, there’s no place like Connecticut Children’s—and no night like the Gala.

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