Media Contact: Anna Reynolds anna@vilaszoo.org 608.258.9490
MADISON, Wis. — On Saturday, July 23, Henry Vilas Zoo will revive the cherished Zoo tradition and host an evening dance on Zoo grounds. The Rock ‘N’ Roar Benefit Dance will light up the night with live entertainment, twilight exhibits, animal encounter raffle prizes and more.
Adult community members will get the chance to help their Zoo roar into its next century by commemorating one of the most time honored events in Zoo history. Previous dances include the Birdland Boogie Benefit Dance, the Orangutango, The Mane Event, Rockin’ for the Rainforest and Roaring Nineties. This year’s Rock ‘N’ Roar will reflect these groovy moonlight traditions, but will include new features for guests to enjoy as well.
Fuzzy Side Up, playing songs from the 60s, 70s, and 80s, will keep guests rockin’ all night long as guest host, Michael Feldman from Wisconsin Public Radio’s “Whad’Ya Know?,” will keep them entertained. If guests wish to take a break from the music in the tent, they can take a stroll on Zoo grounds as the sun sets, enjoy beer or wine together under the stars, and capture their memories with an old time photo booth. All Zoo exhibits will be open, including the lovable and interactive Education Animals.
To benefit the Zoo Century Campaign, which seeks to create educational, innovative and crucial Zoo exhibits like the Arctic Passage, the Rock ‘N’ Roar Benefit Dance will include a raffle and silent auction. Guests can buy raffle tickets for the chance to win animal experiences like feeding the otters, seals, polar bears, giraffes and rhinos, and exploring the Zoo behind the scenes. Silent auction items include six framed retro posters from previous dances and a TREK bicycle. Food and desserts will also be available for purchase to support the Zoo.
Tickets for the Rock ‘N’ Roar Benefit Dance are $35 ahead of time and $40 at the door. Tickets may be purchased online at vilaszoo.org or by calling (608) 258-9490.
WHO: Adult community members
WHAT: Rock ‘N’ Roar Zoo Benefit Dance
WHERE: Henry Vilas Zoo Main Tent and grounds
WHEN: Saturday, July 23, 8 p.m. – midnight
TICKETS: $35 ahead of time, $40 at the door
The Friends of the Zoo’s purpose is to build community support and provide funding for Henry Vilas Zoo improvements. This includes the acquisition, conservation, and replacement of animals; refurbishing and creating new exhibits; supporting educational programs; and improving the overall educational and recreational value of the zoo.
For more information, please contact Anna Reynolds at 608.258.9490 or anna@vilaszoo.org.
