Social Scene: Wolf Trap Bollywood Ball Raises Record $2.3 Million

The Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts celebrated the close of its 2025 summer season with the Wolf Trap Bollywood Ball, held on Friday, September 26. The evening spectacular gala raised a record-breaking $2.3 million in support of Wolf Trap’s arts and education programs, which reach more than half a million people of all ages annually.

The Filene Center stage was transformed to capture the spirited music, cuisine, and culture of India. Guests were immersed in vibrant décor and Bollywood beats that brought the space to life. The evening program began with a memorable performance by acclaimed stage and screen actor Manu Narayan, who performed the “Star-Spangled Banner” and “The Journey Home” from Bombay Dreams, written by A.R. Rahman and Andrew Lloyd Webber.Wolf Trap Foundation President and CEO Arvind Manocha welcomed donors, patrons, and partners, sharing heartfelt thanks for their ongoing commitment to the arts. Ball Co-Chairs Margaret & Shashi Gupta and Alka & Sudhakar Kesavan, were recognized with gratitude. Followed by the remarks of ‘trailblazing’ Chairman of the Board, Daniel A. D’Aniello who referenced the memorable experiences and worldclass performances provided by this National treasure that is unique in its partnership with the National Park Service.

Dinner featured a South Asian-influenced menu created by James Beard Award-winning Chef Vikram Sunderam, known for his celebrated Washington, D.C. restaurants Rasika, Rasika West End, and Bindass. The evening concluded with an energetic, dance party led by DJ Ravi
Prasad.

It is revered as a powerful force for the community. Ticket sales only cover 50% of the operating costs. It is the generosity of supporters that allows for Wolf Trap to bring world-class performances to the region while making arts education accessible for learners of all ages.

Special thanks to the evening’s sponsors:

• Capital One – Official Event & VIP Reception Sponsor

• La’ Agra – Cocktail Reception Sponsor

• Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts is the official partner to the National Park Service
at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts—the only national park dedicated to
presenting the performing arts. The mission of Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts is
to present and create excellent and innovative performing arts programs for the enrichment,
education, and enjoyment of diverse audiences and participants.

The Wolf Trap hosts generations of arts lovers from the here and now and for the future.
Support the Wolf Trap experience and help make arts and education programs available to all!!
Donate today at WolfTrap.org/GiveNow.

See a gallery of photos from the event below.

tagsballs and galassocialsocial sceneWolf TrapWolf Trap Ball