Gwen Stefani performed at the Save Our Musicians Foundation Dinner

Three-time Grammy winner Gwen Stefani performed at the Save Our Musicians Foundation Dinner Gala at the Ballpark of the Palm Beaches

Review and Photos by Jay Skolnick

The April 29th gala to benefit the Dreyfoos School of the Arts, an audition based magnet high school, raised a whopping $350,000. Save our Musicians Foundation is a nonprofit working to help cultivate the next generation of talent, as well as support independent artists throughout their careers. “Nothing like this has ever been done before,” said Dennis Cunningham, President of the Save Our Musicians Foundation. “We are thrilled that we are going to help these students in a way Palm Beach County has never seen before.”

The event featuring the iconic superstar, Gwen Stefani, included a white tablecloth dinner and drinks on the ballfield. She performed in front of the stage for donors and VIPs to enjoy a truly intimate experience. The event also included Dreyfoos student musical performances, along with student artwork being auctioned off.

As the day began, students performed at the ballpark as attendees began filling the stands. The field was abuzz with tables starting to fill. Attendees included impeccably dressed donors and their kids greeting each other in anticipation of the show. The open-air festivities began on time, despite the menacing weather only a few miles from the ballpark. Mother Nature smiled kindly on this event, and it went on without a hitch. Donors were invited to a friendly Meet and Greet shortly before the main event. The accommodating artist patiently welcomed everyone young and old before getting ready to hit the stage.

Sharing the main stage and opening the show were The Dreyfoos Jazz Band and their talented dance troupe. Local favorites Sons of a Tradesman backed up Taylor Norris, Ava Camejo and Josh Miles before kicking it up a notch with a spirited set of their own. Next to take the stage was the Nashville-based artist Leanna Firestone with an endearing solo set. “We were honored to share the stage with Gwen Stefani and to help raise money for two incredible organizations, like Save Our Musicians and Dreyfoos School of the Arts. Music has the power to change lives, and we are grateful to be able to use our music to make a difference,” said Alexis Terrosa of Sons of a Tradesman.

Stefani hit the stage in a white feather coat and ripped camouflage cargo pants with black platform boots. In no time, the event moved to another level. The crowd got up from their tables, kicked off their heels and moved to the front of the stage in order to dance. Stefani thanked them for their support, remarking just how amazing it is that live music is back. “I finally get to see you,” she screamed. “Where are my 11-year-olds? Move closer.”

The diva leaned forward and sang many of her hits, including “I’m Just a Girl,” “Don’t Speak” and “Hollaback Girl.” In total command with her tight band and well-choreographed dancers, Stefani had every concertgoer on their feet. Recognizing the Dreyfoos School’s fantastic work in the community, she wondered aloud where her life might have been with that type of education? “If I went to Dreyfoos School, where would I be today,” Stefani pondered.

An “intimate” performance as promised by the Foundation, it certainly was. “No doubt,” the Save Our Musicians Foundation must be commended for delivering a stellar evening.