Teamwork is key to Sundance success
Each Labor Day weekend, as people flood into CAMP Rehoboth’s Sundance, they are dazzled by the décor, amazed by the sounds and lights, and astonished by the high-energy vibe in the transformed Rehoboth Beach Convention Center. What they don’t see is all that went on behind the scenes to make the event possible.
“For me, Sundance is the ultimate feel-good event,” said Glen C. Pruitt, a Sundance team captain. “I have volunteered at Sundance almost every year since 1995. I've done lots of different tasks with lots of different people there, over the years. However, there is always the same joy in the work, the same excitement when the doors open the night of the event, and the same satisfaction in knowing you are making changes in the community for good.”
Sundance 2019 – Rainbow XXXII: Ultraviolet Disco Day-Glo Sunrise will raise funds to support the health of the local community and the fair and equitable treatment of all, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. In 2018 alone, CAMP Rehoboth outreach programs served over 6,500 individuals and its health and wellness programs served nearly 10,000.
“The Annual CAMP Rehoboth Sundance is a highlight of the summer season,” said Rehoboth Beach Mayor Paul Kuhns. “For many, Sundance is more than just an event; it’s a place to celebrate community, meet new people and embrace old friends. For over 25 years, CAMP’s vision and leadership have become one of the most respected and successful nonprofit organizations in Delaware and contributed greatly to establishing Rehoboth as a widely recognized community with acceptance and room for all. The organization promotes cooperation and understanding among all people as they work to build safe, inclusive communities.”
A favorite part of Sundance is the spectacular sound and lighting effects, which really ramp up the excitement. John Andraka, a lighting production manager from Starlite in Moorestown, N.J., is a Sundance veteran. “If you would have told me in 2011, when I came on board as the lighting vendor for my very first Sundance, that 1) almost two tractor trailers full of lighting and rigging equipment would surely fit in a modest convention center with 14-foot ceilings, and 2) that I would be gaining a whole second family in Delaware, I might not have believed you,” he said. “But that’s what happened. If it’s a true sense of community that you seek or a genuine reminder of what’s truly possible when we come together for a common purpose, then look no further than Sundance.”
Sundance offers two nights of fun. The first event from 6 to 9 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 31, features a silent auction, live auction with auctioneer Lorne Crawford, and an all-night cocktail buffet and open bar. Up for bid will be a dazzling array of enticing items, including art, trips, gifts, sports memorabilia and one-of-a-kind opportunities. The second night is the two-for-one Sundance, which includes the Sundance Disco Twilight Tea from 7 to 10 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 1, featuring DJ legend Robbie Leslie, and the traditional Sundance from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., with music by DJ/Remixer Joe Gauthreaux and lights by Paul Turner. Participants can attend either or both nights of the event; tickets are $50 for one night, $90 for both.
To purchase tickets, go to camprehoboth.com. To learn about hosting and sponsorship opportunities and discuss payment options, call Murray Archibald at 302-227-5620.
All proceeds from Sundance benefit CAMP Rehoboth, a nonprofit corporation, and support the activities and programs it provides to the Rehoboth community. For more information, go to camprehoboth.com.
