Worthington Chamber Orchestra to host inaugural gala on May 16 (original) (raw)

May 15, 2026, 6:00 a.m. ET

The Worthington Chamber Orchestra (WCO) is shifting the gears into overdrive for its inaugural gala, “American Rhapsody: A Musical Road Trip.”

A novel experience that director Antoine T. Clark calls “equal parts concert, dinner party and cultural adventure,” the gala is part of WCO’s “American Crossroads” season honoring the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Guests will take a musical tour of America, moving through four areas of the country represented by destination rooms.

Themed “Southern American Charm,” “Viva Las Vegas,” “California Dreamin’,” and “New York, New York,” the rooms will feature live chamber music, and curated décor and cuisine reflecting the respective regions.

The gala will also offer a progressive themed dinner with an open bar, plus silent and live auctions for items including dining outings, original artwork and exclusive getaways such as a stay at a Naples, Florida, condo and a local sightseeing flight.

The evening will wrap with a finale performance by acclaimed pianist Caroline Hong, who will play George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue.”

The Worthington Chamber Orchestra will host its inaugural gala, “American Rhapsody: A Musical Road Trip," on May 16 at the McConnell Arts Center in Worthington.

A Steinway Artist and professor of piano at Ohio State, Hong was described as “one of the greatest pianists I have ever heard” by Pulitzer Prize and Academy Award-winning composer John Corigliano.

Proceeds from the gala will support WCO’s programming including Masterworks concerts, family events and educational initiatives.

Details: “American Rhapsody: A Musical Road Trip” will take place at 5:30 p.m. May 16, McConnell Arts Center, 777 Evening St., Worthington. Tickets cost $125. (bit.ly/4eTNNu3)

Contact features and entertainment reporter Belinda M. Paschal at bpaschal@dispatch.com.