Jazzy folk, emotional piano and raucous comedy top the menu of entertainment that will greet goers to the second annual Paint the Town Red Gala this October 3rd. The Pride Centre of Edmonton puts on the event to raise funds for the great programs they offer year round.

"[The gala] helps fund all of our programming," says the Pride Centre’s Executive Director Mickey Wilson. "The proceeds won’t be required to go into a particular programming, but rather to support the infrastructure of the organization."

He says this differs from say, grant moneys, which are usually designated toward specific programs or some salary. The moneys raised at Paint the Town Red are the biggest sum the organization will receive from fundraising all year; its revenue is vital for the services it provides.

Tickets are available for $100 per person, which will gain you entrance to the event starting at 7:30pm, for a fun night of hors d’oeuvres, music and silent auction. Corporate tables sell for $1000 and tables of eight go for a slightly discounted rate.

Wilson says roughly 75 tickets were sold in August; meaning 175 were still up for grabs. It is hoped the night will earn the Centre $25,000 total from ticket sales.

If this sounds like a night you want to be involved with in a volunteering capacity, a volunteer call will be going out through social media and Charity Village some time early this month. Wilson said about 24 volunteers will be required to see the night run smoothly.

The jazz influenced singer Billi Zizi will start off the evening, followed by piano player and solo vocalist David Sereda, concluding with headliner Trevor Borris. The latter comedian is a star and producer of MuchMusic’s Video on Trial, and has performed his ‘hip and edgy style of comedy’ across the continent.

For those still up for more fun as the gala winds down, limousine busses will be available for hire to take guests to Buddy’s for a revving after party.

Asked what the suggested attire for the night is, Wilson was quick to respond: "fabulous – and perhaps some red."

"People come in a vast array of attire... little red bow ties to tuxedos and ball gowns," he describes. "Last year about 90 per cent of the participants wore some red."

You still have a few weeks to get your ensemble together, but get your tickets fast. Gala tickets can be purchased online through the Centre’s website, from a board member, or in person during office hours. Attendees will also be given a $60 charitable donation tax receipt.

The Centre is currently running Queer Lens, a free education program open to the public and held every Wednesday from 7pm to 8:30pm. A schedule is available on their website.