A.C.T.’s 2nd Annual All Hallows’ Gala: Zombie Ball 2023

American Conservatory Theater (A.C.T.) and gala co-chairs Heather Stallings Little & John Little and David Jones & Joe D’Alessandro hosted Zombie Ball, the second annual All Hallows’ Gala that was held on Friday, October 27 at San Francisco’s August Hall. Hailed as San Francisco’s best costume party fundraiser, the All Hallows’ Gala Zombie Ball presented guests with a frightfully elegant and theatrical night full of fun, gourmet food and wine, and dancing and games. The evening is the sole annual fundraising event for A.C.T., providing essential funds for the theater’s artistic, actor training, and education and community programs. Guests at this year’s Zombie Ball were encouraged to dress in costume or cocktail attire.

The wonderfully frightening evening began with a cocktail reception where guests enjoyed live music and conversation on the mezzanine, or escaped to the “scream-easy” for a luxe respite.  Guests were ushered to the historic music hall and treated to an autumnal-inspired menu created by Gold Leaf Catering. Afterwards, A.C.T. Young Conservatory alum and award-winning stage, screen, and music recording artist Darren Criss (American Buffalo, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, American Crime Story: The Assassination of Gianni Versace, Glee) regaled guests with some thrilling, Halloween-themed programming! Capping off the festive evening was the After-Life Party, featuring ultimate dance band Vinyl Project and the opportunity to play retro-games in the cool underground haunt, which included bowling, hoops, skee-ball, and late-night bites, tricks, and treats. Gala special guest Darren Criss joined the band on vocals and guitar, treating guests to an impromptu mini-concert!