The Oconee Performing Arts Society (OPAS) hosted its annual Winter Ball Jan. 31 at the Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee.
The evening’s headliner, legendary singer and cultural preservationist Michael Feinstein, gave a masterful performance demonstrating his command of American popular standards.
The heart of the evening belonged to the next generation when OPAS Scholarship recipient and former Youth Chorus student Helen Garcia took the stage. In a display of singing, tap dancing, guitar, ukulele, drums, and trumpet(!), she performed alongside the OPAS Big Band.
Not simply a performance, Garcia presented living proof of what access to arts education can produce.
“Arts education changes lives,” Artistic Director Doug LaBrecque declared. “When a child is given access to music, theater, or dance, they gain far more than performance skills. They gain self-belief, resilience, and a sense of belonging. That is what tonight is truly about.”
The live auction also offered unique experiences.
“Luau at the Farm at Oconee,” won by OPAS supporters Tammy and Jim Beatty, promises an evening for 50 guests and a performance by Grammy Awardwinner Matt Catingub.
“An Evening of Broadway in Your Home,” won by Louie Seabolt and Jane Hutterly, secured a private concert featuring Broadway conductor Evan Roider and Tony Award winner Debbie Gravitte.
The Fund-the-Need/Paddle Raise segment raised funds for free music lessons, the new OPAS Piano Lab currently in residence at The Atlas Academy, OPAS masterclasses, and expanded college performing arts scholarships.
OPAS Board Chair Barry Selvidge thanked OPAS season sponsors Signature FD, Reynolds Lake Oconee, Bo Fears, and Luxury Lake Oconee Real Estate Group for their continued partnerships.
“OPAS has transformed this community,” OPAS Winter Ball Chair Riezl Baker said. “When we moved here in 1997, arts education options were limited. This evening proves that our community values creativity, believes in young people, and understands that the arts are essential.”
The next OPAS event on the 2026 schedule is Feb. 20, when Doreen Ketchens — “The Queen of New Orleans” — takes over the stage at Barrel 118 in downtown Eatonton, with limited tickets available at tix.com/ticket-sales/opas/4689/event/1446061.