The Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF) proudly announces the return of The Chic and Unique Ball on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood. This year’s theme, “Wild Elegance,” invites guests to dress daringly and arrive glamorously for a night of jungle-inspired celebration. The event opens GMCSF’s Season 17, themed “Believe.”
Since it made its debut in 2023, GMCSF’s Chic and Unique Ball has become a dazzling highlight of South Florida’s social season, known for its unique entertainment, fast-paced programming, and incredible, immersive experiences. The Ball welcomes over 400 guests each year.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood returns as our Season Sponsor and the host venue for this year’s gala. What began as a landmark holiday concert partnership in December 2016 has evolved into a dynamic ten-year relationship rooted in music, visibility, and community impact. Today, Seminole Hard Rock continues to amplify GMCSF’s mission as the Amplified Season Sponsor and home of The Chic and Unique Ball.
CAN Community Health joins as an Amplified Season Sponsor for Season 17. “The Chic and Unique Ball was the best ball of 2025,” said Kal Gajraj, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of CAN Community Health. “We are proud to deepen our partnership with GMCSF and support an event that brings our community together in such a powerful way. Supporting initiatives that strengthen and celebrate our community is central to CAN Community Health’s mission.” The Bears of South Florida and Brand g Vacations also return as proud sponsors of the ball. Brand g has donated a spectacular seven-night all-LGBT+ Burgundy and Provence river cruise for two as a featured live auction item, valued at $14,398.
Ball Co-Chairs Robert Beaulieu and Erick Eldridge lead this year’s event, bringing a shared vision for an unforgettable evening. “Wild Elegance captures everything GMCSF represents: boldness, artistry, and community pride,” said Robert Beaulieu, Ball Co-Chair and GMCSF Board Member. “We are honored to celebrate ten years of partnership with Seminole Hard Rock. The energy of this night will launch our Season 17 in spectacular fashion.”
“The Chic and Unique Ball is where our community shows up for each other,” said Dr. Kerry Waldee, GMCSF Board Chair. “Every ticket, every sponsorship, and every bid directly fuels the music and outreach that change lives across South Florida. We are deeply grateful to the community that continues to stand with us.”
The evening comes alive beginning at 6:30 p.m. with a red-carpet arrival, open-bar cocktails, a curated silent auction, and instant-win surprises throughout the night. Guests will savor a gourmet dinner before a captivating live performance, a live auction led by auctioneer Whitney J. Dutton, and the iconic Golden Ticket Drawing. Non-stop entertainment continues as a live band takes the stage and guests dance the night away. Curated by GMCSF Artistic Director Gabe Salazar, the night’s entertainment features the Chorus and special guest artists, including dueling electric violinists, The Synergy Twins. VIP guests arrive at 6 p.m. for an exclusive reception featuring an open bar, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, and a premium raffle.
VIP tickets are $500 per person or $5,000 per table. Premium Admissions are $300 per person or $3,000 per table. Tickets are available now at thechicanduniqueball.com. Sponsorship opportunities range from $500 to $50,000 and can be explored at thechicanduniqueball.com/sponsorship.
The Chic and Unique Ball will also serve as an official welcome for GMCSF’s new Executive Director, Justin Fyala, who takes the helm on October 19, 2026. Fyala brings a decade of leadership from the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC, along with arts management experience spanning the Kennedy Center, IMG Artists, and the Dallas Opera. “Nothing reflects the spirit of GMCSF quite like The Chic and Unique Ball,” said Fyala. “This night brings our mission, our partners, and our community together in full force. Stepping into this role at such a defining moment is an absolute privilege, and I’m excited to celebrate the amazing people who make our powerful music possible.”
