Secret mission: Art of Bond Florida Rep gala is March 28

Time is running out to get your tickets to Florida Repertory Theatre's fund raising event, The Art of Bond. The James Bond Themed Gala will be held Saturday, March 28, at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in the Fort Myers River District from 6:30 to 10 p.m.

The event draws on the iconic style and artistry of the 22 James Bond films, and guests are asked to come dressed for the theme.

"It is going to be the fundraising event of the season," said Jane Lane, event chair. "Last season's Roman Forum was a record-breaking success, and this season we plan to outdo ourselves."

The Art of Bond will allow guests to interpret and enjoy the exciting world of Agent 007 like never before. Guests are encouraged to embrace the theme and arrive in costume, whether as Bond himself, one of the many unforgettable and beguiling Bond Girls or as one of his magnificently malevolent enemies.

"Live your fantasy," said Ms. Lane, "and it will be simpler than ever now that the Halloween Mega Store has come on as a partner, offering a 10 percent discount to Art of Bond guests."

The centerpiece of the event is a live and silent auction that will feature

the best Southwest Florida has to offer from artwork to luxurious getaways, jewelry, makeovers and more. Some of the highlights include a Puerto Vallarta vacation in a six-bedroom villa with servants; a stay at the Historic Collier Inn on Useppa Island; a $500 shopping spree complete with a limousine from the Diamond District; a three-day getaway at Ritz-Carlton in Rose Hall, Jamaica; tickets to see "Wicked" and other events at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall; and a Florida Rep special package, dinner and a show with "The Art of Murder" author and Broadway playwright, Joe DiPietro.

"The auction is only the beginning," said Ms. Lane, "as always, the gala will feature casino games and food from area restaurants — including the River District's newest venue, Vino de Notte at the Hotel Indigo."

A table for 10 at the event is $1,500 and $150 for individuals. Tables and tickets are on sale through the Florida Rep box office at 332-4488. Single tickets are also available online at www.floridarep.org.

The Art of Bond is sponsored by FineMark Bank & Trust, Arthur Zupko, the Fort Myers Redevelopment Agency, Julie K. and Steven B. Smith, Phil Hugh and Hotel Indigo, Bruce Strayhorn and Florida Weekly.