2026 Applause for the Cause: Gustavus Performing Arts Giving Days

$233,557
Donated
106% of $220,000 goal
377
Donors
This campaign ended on February 26, 2026
About



Behind every excellent performance is a community of supporters.

Welcome to Applause for the Cause, our annual Giving Days for Performing Arts at Gustavus! This is your chance to make a lasting impact on the incredible music, theater, and dance programs that bring our campus—and audiences—to life.

Our Goal: $220,000 in 36 Hours!

Performing arts are at the heart of Gustavus, where 400+ students shine on stage and beyond. From soul-stirring concerts and dynamic theater productions to breathtaking dance performances and our beloved Christmas in Christ Chapel, the arts create unforgettable moments that inspire and transform.

And behind every outstanding performance is a community of supporters—like YOU—who make it all possible!

We’re rallying together to raise support for our talented students. You can choose where your gift makes an impact—whether in a specific area or across multiple opportunities:

🎵 International tours for our musical ensembles, sharing Gustavus’s world-class music across the globe.

🎭 Gustavus Theatre, providing essential funding for production and equipment.

🎭 Gustavus Dance Company, supporting guest artists who enrich the student experience.

🎵 Christmas in Christ Chapel, keeping this cherished Gustavus tradition strong.

Special guest artists, and celebrations—so many ways to support our performers! Every gift—big or small—makes a difference. Join us and be a part of this extraordinary moment to help ensure the arts continue to thrive at Gustavus.

Raise YOUR Applause—Make Your Gift Today!

Go Gusties!

Center Stage
Updates
The impact of Performing Arts at Gustavus from Alex Kane '27 and Leo Mellum '28

108 days ago by Kelsey Backer
Donor spotlight

Thanks so much to our donors Bob Peterson '74 and Cindy Peterson for your generous support of Applause for the Cause!

108 days ago by Gwen Donev
Welcome to Applause for the Cause!

109 days ago by Kelsey Backer

Advocates

Mike Johander '99 and Holli Johander

Offered a $10,000 match

Joel Wiberg '60

Offered a $10,000 match

Erik Thorsell '89

Offered a $6,000 match

Erik Thorsell '89

Offered a $6,000 match

Anonymous Donor

Gave $6,000 during a Challenge!

Erik Thorsell '89

Generated 1 gift, totaling $100
Offered a $5,000 match

Erik Thorsell '89

Generated 1 gift, totaling $100
Offered a $5,000 match

Philip Eidsvold '99 and Ty Baucum

Offered a $5,000 match

Philip Eidsvold '99 and Ty Baucum

Gave $5,000 during a Challenge!

Erik Thorsell '89

Offered a $5,000 match

Donor Affiliations
Gradhat icon73%Alumni
Parent icon22%Parents
Suitcase icon10%Faculty/Staff
Friends icon10%Friends
Gradhat icon1%Current Student
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