You are cordially invited to attend the inaugural Aston Gala on May 17, 2016, at the Hibernian Hall in Charleston. In 2015 The Footlight Players’ Board of Directors established the Anthony Aston Honor, naming it after the British actor, playwright and poet who, in November of 1702, arrived in Charles Towne after being shipwrecked on the Carolina Coast near Port Royal. In 1703, Aston wrote and performed “The Country”, which is arguably the first play ever produced in America. The Aston recognizes individuals or organizations that have made significant contributions to the arts or the cultural life of Charleston. The first recipients will be Charleston longtime Mayor Joseph P. Riley and theater visionaries Patricia and Emmett Robinson. Please join in supporting The Footlight Players at what promises to be an exciting evening.