The right entertainment can transform your charitable fundraiser into a truly unforgettable evening – and significantly impact your event’s success. When guests are captivated by unique performances or immersive experiences, they’re more likely to feel connected to the cause and donate more generously.
Luckily, NYC is home to countless high-end entertainment vendors and options, from cover bands that play modern hits with a classy twist to awe-inspiring cirque performers, dazzling drone displays, and live art performances. These 15 options are sure to captivate your guests and drive event donations.
Upscale Cover Bands
The NYC jazz band Gatsby Now promises to please all ages with “vintage” pop, Prohibition-era jazz, and French/Italian gypsy swing-waltz. Explore their options for dancers, burlesque performers, and cigarette girl magicians to take the entertainment up a notch.
As “the most sought-after string quartet in NYC,” Highline is renowned for their polished covers of pop hits. With a library of 700+ beloved songs, these classically trained musicians will transform your event into an unforgettable experience.
The 10-member Hudson Project Band is known for blending contemporary hits with jazz, funk, and soul. These veteran musicians have performed at some of NYC’s most iconic venues, including The Plaza Hotel, Cipriani Wall Street, and The Rainbow Room.
Mesmerizing Magicians
Illusionist and mentalist Matias Leteliler is an award-winning performer with over 23 years of experience in astonishing crowds at corporate and private events. He offers a variety of engaging programs, including a one-man stage show, walk-around entertainment, and virtual magic performances.
Dan White has created mystery and magic “on stage and screen around the world” for over 20 years. A celebrated magician who has performed on The Tonight Show and the Discovery Channel, White offers strolling performances and stand-up shows to make your next charity event unforgettable.
Famous for his modern, high-energy performances, Elliot Zimet is a master illusionist who has appeared on America’s Got Talent, MTV, and CBS. Zimet specializes in custom magic shows that can expertly integrate your brand – and leave your audiences in awe.
Cirque-Style Acts
Ariel Artistry creates unforgettable experiences at fundraiser galas with breathtaking aerialists, acrobats, and cirque-style performers. With a track record of launching events “on time and on budget”, Ariel Artistry can integrate a stunning and customized performance into your next event.
The specialty performance group Cirque Central works with big and small clients and offers a variety of visually stunning performances. Choose from aerial silks, hoop artists, contortionists, fire dancers, musicians, and more to take your upscale fundraiser event to the next level.
Cirque-tacular Productions specializes in cirque, circus, sideshow, carnival, specialty, and unique themed entertainment for NYC events. Explore dozens of stunning show themes for your next event, including vintage circus, fire and ice, smoke and mirrors, Vegas, and more.
Fireworks & Drone Displays
Grucci Fireworks is renowned for its state-of-the-art firework and pyrotechnic displays. Founded in 1850, the family-owned company has an impressive resume, having delivered shows for seven U.S. presidential inaugurations and Olympic Games across the globe.
The drone technologists at Pixis excel at capturing “the most elusive of all things: consumer attention.” The company has decades of experience creating awe-inspiring drone displays that elevate brands and events and has partnered with global organizations like the NBA and NFL. Bonus: their advanced drones are eco-friendly.
Blue Sky Fireworks is a small, family-owned business that specializes in crafting custom shows for corporate and private events. With a focus on safety and innovation, they provide memorable visual experiences using advanced technology and artistry.
Live Art Performances
Amy Burkman is a live art entertainer, muralist, and commission artist who has performed at corporate events, celebrity gatherings, and charities around the world. With over a decade of experience, Burkman has raised millions for charities through live art performances.
Renowned performance painter Ange Hillz can whip up an extraordinary art piece at your next NYC fundraiser gala in a mere 3 to 15 minutes. In addition to speed painting, Hillz also offers custom mural designs, private art commissions, and corporate event collaborations. His notable clients include ABC, Adidas, HBO, and Time Magazine.
Tim Decker is a speed painter who travels the globe performing high-energy shows for corporate clients and fundraiser galas. He has raised over $1,500,000 for various charities and will inspire and excite your crowd with masterpieces whipped up in minutes.
Find even more upscale entertainment options at The Event Planner Expo
The Event Planner Expo 2025 brings together the best of the best event planning professionals for three awe-inspiring days of networking, presentations, and exhibitions. With more than 50 speakers and 3,000+ attendees, you're guaranteed to uncover even more awe-inspiring entertainment options for your next fundraiser gala. The most brilliant in event entertainment will be there, ready to form strategic partnerships with new even professionals. Meet them and elevate all your fundraising galas with upscale NYC entertainers you meet at The Expo! Get your tickets now!
