The Coney Island USA Annual Spring Gala is a magical evening of spectacle and fantasy in support of the not-for-profit arts organization that makes Brooklyn’s famous beach so special. This year’s benefit will honor MFAD faculty member Fred Kahl,  a.k.a. the Great Fredini who has been an active part of the fabric of Coney Island for over 30 years.

A veteran of the Coney Island Circus Sideshow, founder and executive producer of New York’s longest running burlesque series, Burlesque at the Beach, he is an artist, magician, sword swallower and technological visionary. Creator of Coney Island’s long running off off off Broadway, public access TV cult hit America’s Favorite Burlesque Gameshow- This or That!, Fred’s recent projects include the Scan-A-Rama 3D Portrait Studio and the world’s largest desktop 3D printed art installation; Thompson & Dundy’s Luna Park:3D Printed, currently on view in the Coney Island Museum. This special evening of magic and mayhem will feature signature performances by superstars of the Burlesque and Sideshow movements, as well as go-go dancers and live music. Food and an open bar are included.

The Annual Spring Gala (Saturday, March 19, 2016, 8:00pm) is, say the organizers “the most fun you can legally have while still supporting the arts, and this year’s event is not to be missed!” exclaimed Dick D. Zigun, Founder of Coney Island USA. “We’re a lean organization and rely on this to help fund fantastic events like The Mermaid Parade. We’re dedicated to preserving Coney Island’s historic wonder while expanding its contemporary arts cultural development.”