Powering performances, Fueling education, Empowering Veterans, Igniting community

The financial and volunteer support of our membership program, the Friends, makes everything at the Hylton Center possible. From first-class performances by artists and ensembles from across the world and around the corner to field trips for students and guitar classes for Veterans, this support ensures our programs remain affordable and accessible to all.
Beginning this year, Friends can direct membership gifts to one of three specific programs: the Education Initiative, Veterans and the Arts Initiative, or Friends of the Hylton Center while continuing to receive all the same benefits and perks as before. We want to ensure your generosity makes a direct impact where it resonates most with you.
Membership Benefits
Memberships begin at $125, extend to the entire household, and include:
- Invitation for 2 to attend the Season Announcement event
- Friends-only early subscription and ticket access
- Recognition in digital performance programs
Feature Friend ($125-$249) - Fully Tax Deductible
- Invitation for 2 to attend the Season Announcement event
- Friends-only early subscription and ticket access
- Recognition in digital performance programs
Community Contributor ($250-$499) - $45 Non-Charitable
All benefits listed under Feature Friend, plus
- Backstage tour invitations
- 2 complimentary beverage coupons per season
- 1 special member experience
Arts Advocate ($500-$999) - $75 Non-Charitable
All benefits listed under Community Contributor, plus
- Gallery reception invitations
- Private tour of Merchant Hall (upon request)
- Annual Report with a letter from the Executive Director
Copper Circle
The Copper Circle of the Friends of the Hylton Center includes individuals and businesses whose generous philanthropic impact has made the Hylton Center the creative commons for the region. Members receive exclusive benefits and opportunities in appreciation of their generous support.
Curtain Raiser ($1,000-$2,499) - $325 Non-Charitable
All benefits listed under Arts Advocate, plus
- Copper Circle membership card
- Concierge ticketing and seating service
- Anniversary Gala pre-sale access
- Lovey Hammel Lounge access for 2
- Appreciation event invitations for 2 including the Season Opening Reception and Season Announcement Reception
- Recognition on the Didlake Grand Foyer Marquee Listing
Center Stage Supporter ($2,500-$4,999) - $475 Non-Charitable
All benefits listed under Curtain Raiser, plus
- Lovey Hammel Lounge access for 2 additional guests (4 total)
- Invitation for 2 to the Center Stage Soirée and other VIP events and experiences
- Private seating for American Roots Series
- George Mason University Foundation President’s Circle recognition
Spotlight Sustainer ($5,000-$9,999) - $655 Non-Charitable
All benefits listed under Center Stage Supporter, plus
- Gallery receptions invitation for 2 additional guests (4 total)
- Invitation for 2 to Brunch with Us events
- Additional guest access to the Lovey Hammel Lounge (6 max)
- Reserved seating for Pre-Performance Discussions (by request)
- Artist meet-and-greet opportunities
Performance Producer ($10,000+) - $1,005 Non-Charitable
All benefits listed under Spotlight Sustainer, plus
- Recognition in the Lovey Hammel Lounge
- 2 lunch tickets to a Matinee Idylls performance
- Additional guest access to appreciation events including Opening Night Reception and Center Stage Soirée
- Reserved parking at all Hylton Presents performances & private artist experiences
Artistic Explorers
Artistic Explorers is a new membership that enhances your experience at Hylton Family Series performances while directly supporting the Hylton Center’s Education Initiative. As Artistic Explorers, you'll receive a variety of child-friendly experiences and surprises for the ticket holders in your household during each Hylton Family Series performance.
Artistic Explorers ($100) - Fully Tax Deductible
•Identification stickers at each Family Series performance
•Access to an Artistic Explorers designated area 1 hour before curtain where you can enjoy complimentary child-friendly snacks
•Performance-enhancing activities and surprises
•Early access to purchase Family Series performance subscriptions during the exclusive Friends Priority Period
Your contribution is tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law.
Gifts to the Hylton Center fuel Mason Now: Power the Possible – a university-wide comprehensive campaign supporting George Mason University.
The George Mason University Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3). EIN: 54-1603842.
Contact Us
Angel DeGroot, Membership and Community Engagement Coordinator: 703-993-1702, aolson24@gmu.edu