On April 26, 2025, the Creative Alliance celebrated its 30th anniversary with the Marquee Ball, an annual fundraiser that has become a cornerstone of Baltimore’s arts calendar. Held at The Patterson, a historic venue once known as a movie palace, this year’s event embraced the theme The Enchanted Forest, inviting guests into a world of magic, wonder, and wild imagination. Attendees donned elaborate costumes inspired by myth, fantasy, and films like Where the Wild Things Are, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, FernGully, and Princess Mononoke. The evening featured a VIP dinner, silent art auction, open studios, and a lively dance party, all supporting the Creative Alliance’s free youth education and community arts programs.

The 2025 Marquee Ball honored two notable figures in Baltimore’s arts community. Linda DePalma, the Creative Alliance’s first Director of Education, received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her pioneering work in arts education, including the founding of the Open Minds and Kerplunk! programs. Photographer Joseph M. Giordano was presented with the Golden Formstone Award for his impactful photojournalism capturing Baltimore’s nightlife and social landscape.

Entertainment throughout the night included performances by Craig Alston Solvolution, DJ Wendel Patrick, Dark Circus Arts, and dancers from the Baltimore Rock Opera Society. Guests enjoyed specialty cocktails, gourmet catering by Eleven Courses, a pop-up costume contest, and interactive photo booths. Beyond celebrating three decades of creativity, the Marquee Ball reaffirmed the Creative Alliance’s vital role in nurturing imagination and community in Baltimore.

 

Preview and Dinner Photos by E. Brady Robinson with After Party Photos by Crystal Whitman