TAMPA | Life Amplified will host its 16th major fundraiser and welcome supporters to the Carrollwood Cultural Center studio on September 28 from 8-11 p.m. for its first LGBTQ+ affirming adult prom to benefit PFLAG Safety Harbor.
The musical showcase is the philanthropic side of WriteOne Creative Services, the independent design and advertising firm founded by Deborah Bostock-Kelley. Among other ventures, the LGBTQ+ ally also freelances for Watermark.
“Mark your calendar now – and travel back in time to the unforgettable nights of high school proms – but with a surprise!” Life Amplified said in a press release, promising “the ultimate event for adults.”
“Whether you loved every second of your high school prom, wished for a repeat, or never had the chance to attend, Life Amplified SPECTACULAR offers the perfect opportunity to create or relive those special moments,” it says. “The prom theme is a throwback to the ’70s, chosen through social media. Attendees are invited to dust off their bell bottoms and tease their hair for a night of Saturday Night Fever.”
Period fashion is encouraged but optional, though business casual attire is recommended to enhance the evening. ABC Action News reporter Anthony Hill will emcee the event, which will also feature nearly 30 local singers, free corsages, a dance floor, a table for food, disco backdrop and decor, photo rooms, mocktails and more.
“This event is for anyone looking for a lively, inclusive night without alcohol,” notes Life Amplified. “It’s a disco-style wonderland that transports you to Studio 54. But this isn’t just about the past; it’s a living statement against the forces trying to erase the LGBTQ+ community.”
This is one of the reasons Bostock-Kelley chose PFLAG Safety Harbor as its prom beneficiary. The association was founded in 2023 and has been advocating for LGBTQ+ civil rights across the state ever since.
“When we celebrate at Life Amplified SPECTACULAR, we don’t just step back in time; we step into a world where every moment is an opportunity for you to shine, love and be your true self,” says Bostock-Kelley. “This event is a tribute to the past, a celebration of the present and a beacon for the future.”
Wendy Vernon, president of PFLAG Safety Harbor, says the organization is grateful for Life Amplified’s support. She says Bostock-Kelley “really went above and beyond with an outstanding program of live entertainment, community partners and sponsorships.
“This is a great opportunity for our LGBTQ+ community and allies to attend prom as their true selves,” she continues. “Some friends have shared past prom experiences of leaving the house in the outfit their families expected them to wear and then changing into the outfit that matched their gender. Everyone can and should be open and proud at this ’70s-themed LGBTQ+ prom!”
Vernon adds that the prom will not only celebrate queer joy, but will also “raise money that will go directly to supporting, advocating and educating our LGBTQ+ families.”
Tickets are currently on sale and cost $20 for individuals or $35 for couples. Every ticket sold directly supports PFLAG Safety Harbor and its mission to empower and promote the LGBTQ+ community. Watermark readers can also save $5 by using the discount code “WATERMARK5.”
“Join us as we sing through the decades and create special prom memories,” says Bostock-Kelly. “This is a safe space and we are an ally in saying GAY loudly at Life Amplified SPECTACULAR.” Read more below:
Life Amplified Spectacular: An 18+ Prom will be held September 28 from 8-11 p.m. at the Carrollwood Cultural Center Studio, 13345 Casey Road in Tampa. Find out more and buy tickets here and visit LifeAmplifiedShowcase.com for more information about Life Amplified.
