SARASOTA, FL — Lifeline Productions will host its first- ever annual fundraiser, “A Night of Stories and Light,” on Thursday, March 20, 2026, at Arts Center Sarasota. The evening will bring together supporters, artists, and community leaders to celebrate the power of storytelling to reduce mental health stigma and build empathy.

The event marks an important milestone for the Sarasota-based nonprofit, which creates and produces authentic personal stories on stage to spark conversations about mental health and support healing for those affected by mental illness. 

Lifeline Productions was founded following the success of the acclaimed solo show Clowns Like Me, which debuted in Sarasota to sold-out audiences and a powerful audience response. The organization has since expanded its reach through performances, talkbacks, and workshops designed to help audiences better understand mental health challenges and connect with one another through shared stories. 

“A Night of Stories and Light" will feature special guests, a look ahead at Lifeline Productions’ upcoming initiatives - including upcoming theatrical works and expanded community events - and an opportunity to support the impact of Lifeline. Funds raised during the event will support Lifeline Productions’ upcoming programming, including productions, workshops, and storytelling initiatives designed to amplify lived experiences.

“Mental illness touches nearly every family, yet stigma still keeps too many people silent,” said Will Luera, Executive Director of Lifeline Productions. “At Lifeline, we believe storytelling has the power to open hearts, shift perspectives, and remind people they are not alone. This evening celebrates how far we’ve come, and helps us take the next step in bringing these stories to even more people.”

“We started Lifeline because we believed that sharing authentic personal stories could change the conversation around mental illness,” said Joel Ehrenpreis, Founder of Lifeline Productions. “Seeing the community rally around these stories has been extraordinary. ‘A Night of Stories and Light’ will help ensure that many more voices can step forward and be heard.”

Since its founding, Lifeline Productions has engaged audiences locally and nationally through performances, educational partnerships, and conversations with mental health professionals. Audience feedback has shown that Lifeline Productions' events can increase empathy, reduce stigma, and encourage people to seek help when they need it. 

The fundraiser represents a major step in Lifeline’s continued growth as it expands its work across Sarasota and beyond.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now. More information can be found at www.lifelineproductionsinc.org.

About Lifeline Productions

Lifeline Productions is a nonprofit organization dedicated to producing authentic personal stories that raise awareness, reduce stigma, and foster healing around mental health challenges. Through live theater, workshops, and community partnerships, Lifeline uses storytelling to build empathy and spark meaningful conversations about mental health.