KAF Fundraiser Raises $80K With Matching Grant
A sold-out Kaleidoscope Arts fundraiser on March 14 raised $80,000, with a new $100,000 matching grant announced to support a permanent home for Bermuda’s children’s creativity.
A spokesperson said, “Art lovers and food enthusiasts gathered in vibrant style on Saturday, March 14, for an unforgettable evening in support of the Kaleidoscope Arts Foundation. The sold-out fundraiser blended creativity across disciplines and raised $80,000 toward the organization’s ambitious goal of securing a new, permanent home. A special announcement was made on the night: Kaleidoscope received a generous matching grant of up to $100,000.
“As you may be aware, Kaleidoscope is in need of a new location starting June 30, 2026. Its Home is Where the Art Is campaign has set a goal of raising $3 million over five years to sustain and grow its impact. To date, $600,000 has been raised, with a goal of reaching $640,000 in the next month, supported by the newly announced matching opportunity.
“Kaleidoscope is a space where young people are encouraged to explore, express, and build confidence through creativity. Serving more than 1,000 children each year, the organization plays a vital role in empowering Bermuda’s children, nurturing imagination, fostering self-expression, and creating a sense of belonging through art, nature, & play.
“For those unable to attend Saturday’s event, Kaleidoscope wants to share highlights from the evening and extended thanks to the many contributors who brought the event to life, including Piran Strange, Graham Foster, the staff of Kaleidoscope, the team at Bolero, Harry’s at the Waterfront’s own Gordon Emmerson , and Karen Plianthos.
“Hosted at Bolero, the event unfolded as a sensory journey inspired by the surrealist Dalí. Guests stepped into a dreamlike world where visual art, theatrical performance, and fine dining intertwined seamlessly. The evening also showcased the culinary talents of Jonny Roberts, Executive Chef at Island Restaurant Group.
“From the moment of arrival, guests were immersed in the surreal. Handmade hats and masks transformed attendees into living artworks, while a whimsical theatrical touch saw glasses of champagne seemingly materialize from mirrors. Inside, performance artists drifted through the space dressed as blooming flowers, becoming living sculptures within the scene.
“The venue itself had been transformed by Kaleidoscope’s team of teachers into a Dalí-inspired dreamscape. Clouds floated overhead, melting clocks adorned the décor, and mirrors created playful distortions of space and perspective. Along the walls, an impressive collection of artwork contributed to the evening’s fundraising auction.
“The surrealist theme extended to the menu, where Chef Roberts and his team presented a four-course dining experience inspired by Dalí’s works. Each dish paid homage to a specific painting, transforming iconic imagery into inventive culinary expressions.
“Cocktail lovers were equally delighted, with Gordon Emmerson of Harry’s at the Waterfront, crafting imaginative drinks that complemented the evening’s surrealist theme, including hit cocktails such as the Kimono Rose and a Crispy Martini.”
A particularly memorable moment came when auctioneer Karen Plianthos shared the story of her child’s first experience at Kaleidoscope, “Mummy, that place is magic,” she recalled, as she launched the live auction.
Kaleidoscope founder Fiona Rodriguez-Roberts reflected on the organization’s future vision. “The search is ongoing for the right permanent home for Kaleidoscope,” she said. “We’re on the path to creating a space that will give all of Bermuda’s children greater access to creative opportunities.” She added, “We are grateful for each person who bought a ticket to this event, volunteered their time, and have been working with us to keep Kaleidoscope going, to do this work and meet the needs of our community.”
A Call to Action
The spokesperson said, “Kaleidoscope invites the community to be part of this transformative journey. Donations made in the coming month will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $100,000, doubling the impact of every contribution. Supporters are encouraged to help Kaleidoscope reach its next milestone and secure a permanent home for creativity in Bermuda. Reach out to Kaleidoscope for more information at info@kaf.bm.”
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