Support the Canton Palace Theatre & Win a Weekend Getaway! 

Help Joy & James raise funds to expand the historic Canton Palace Theatre and enter for a chance to win one of two incredible getaway prizes!

Whether you're planning an adventurous weekend with a partner or a family fun escape, we’ve got the perfect option for you. 

Every donation of $20 or more automatically earns you a chance to win, and the more you give, the more chances you have!

Option 1: Adventure in the Pennsylvania Laurel Highlands (Southeast of Pittsburgh)

Enjoy a peaceful 2-night stay in a cozy woodsy cottage located in the heart of the stunning Pennsylvania Laurel Highlands. Nestled in nature, this charming getaway is perfect for an adventurous couple looking to unwind and enjoy some quiet time together. Enjoy hikes, scenic views, and cozy evenings by the fireplace.

• 15 min to historic Ligonier and Fort Ligonier (where George Washington once lived!)
• 1/2 mile from Carnegie’s Powdermill Nature Reserve
• 20-25 min to 3 ski resorts (Seven Springs, Hidden Valley, Laurel Mountain) for an alpine slide, axe throwing, rock climbing, skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and more
• 10 min to Linn Run State Park for hiking, trout fishing, and picnicking
• 40 min to Ohiopyle State Park for waterfalls, white water rafting, hiking, bike rentals, and the Great Allegheny Passage
• 45 min to the Flight 93 National Memorial
• 25 min to the Pittsburgh Steelers training camp in Latrobe, PA

Your weekend includes a gourmet dinner for two at Treetops Restaurant, featuring delicious cuisine and breathtaking views of the mountains. Plus, immerse yourself in architectural history with a 2025 Guided Architectural Tour for two at Fallingwater, one of the world’s most famous homes designed by Frank Lloyd Wright!

Option 2: Family Fun at Idlewild & SoakZone

Looking for a weekend of family fun? This prize includes a 2-night stay at a cozy woodsy cottage complete with a bonfire ring and pole barn rec building. Adding to the fun is a family ticket package for 4 to Idlewild and SoakZone, Pennsylvania’s oldest amusement park, filled with over 35 rides and attractions for all ages. Take a few loops on the ferris wheel or enjoy the famous Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood play area, where kids can meet their favorite characters like Daniel Tiger, Katerina Kittycat, and other beloved characters from the show. Cool off in the SoakZone water park with water slides, wave pools, and more. A perfect destination for making memories with the whole family!

How to Enter:

• Every donation of $20 or more automatically enters you into the raffle for a chance to win.

• $40 = 2 tickets, $60 = 3 tickets, and so on!

The winner will be drawn the night of Canton Prom. The winner does not need to be present.
Most weekdays and weekends will be available with the exception of holiday weekends.

Your donation helps fund the expansion of the Canton Palace Theatre, bringing more arts, culture, and entertainment to our community. Don’t miss your chance to win a weekend getaway or family adventure while supporting a great cause and helping crown James and Joy the King & Queen of Canton Prom!

James and Joy's Story

James Waters II and Joy L. Raub, both raised in Stark County, are a dynamic couple with a love for the historic Canton Palace Theatre. In 2020, they tied the knot on its iconic stage where Joy grew up performing since childhood. Together, they share a passion for the arts, their community, and supporting the organizations close to their hearts. 

James, a regional Emmy award-winning and six-time nominated producer and director, is the creator of Canton Film Festival—an event that has partnered with the Canton Palace Theatre for nearly 15 years to promote film in the NE Ohio region. James’ portfolio includes producing commercials and photography for numerous national brands, three nationally aired documentaries, and content for regional and local audiences. In addition to his creative work, James currently serves on the board of the Greater Stark County Urban League, having previously served on the boards of both The Hub Art Factory and Community Harvest.  

Joy is an Associate Director II at the American Endowment Foundation in Hudson, one of the largest independent donor-advised fund sponsors in the country. She is a visionary business leader with a track record of building capacity and driving impactful change within organizations across diverse sectors, including financial services, arts and culture, higher education, behavioral health, and social services. Joy has actively volunteered in the community for years, including as a dance instructor for six seasons of the Canton Palace Theatre’s previous fundraiser, Dancing with the Canton Stars – scoring two winning partnerships along the way! 

James and Joy reside locally with their teenage son, Samuel, who has grown up frequenting the theatre, as well – whether back-stage or in the audience. They are now excited to break out their best attire and join this year’s prom court in support the Canton Palace Theatre.