Geri's Bubbly Bar Arrives at Ruth Eckerd Hall

On Tuesday, February 25th, invited guests gathered on the first floor of the Hoffman Family Dress Circle at Ruth Eckerd Hall to honor the incredible generosity of Ms. Geri Trautlein, a devoted supporter whose legacy gift has brought Geri’s Bubbly Bar to life—a lasting tribute to her commitment to the arts and the community she loved. This brand-new, high-end bar will offer Ruth Eckerd Hall’s Circle of Stars Members and their guests the opportunity to purchase top-shelf drinks, fine champagne, and pre-show dining options. Complimentary specialty bubbly cocktails will be available throughout the season. 

Joined by life-long friend of Ms. Trautlein, Denise Leyshock, Board Chair Debbie White, and members of Ruth Eckerd Hall’s Board of Directors and Senior Staff, Geri’s Bubbly Bar was introduced by Ruth Eckerd Hall CEO Susan Crockett and Chief Development Officer Kate Samy. To kick off the celebration, an impressive water feature was revealed as guests enjoyed champagne and stories of Ms. Trautlein’s life as a dancer and dedicated arts advocate.  

Pictured (from L to R): Susan Crockett, Debbie White, Denise Leyshock and Doreen Halliwell.

In 2013, Ms. Trautlein donated $1 million dollars to Ruth Eckerd Hall to fund renovations for the over 100-year-old Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre in downtown Clearwater. A life-long performer, Ms. Trautlein made the generous donation in honor of her late husband, Ray.

Geri’s generosity will make an impact for years to come, and you can also create a lasting legacy too. If you’ve already included Ruth Eckerd Hall in your estate plans or would like to explore the possibility of making a planned gift, we would love to connect with you. Please contact us to learn how your support can shape the future of the arts for generations. Please visit the Planned Giving page here to learn more.