Our History
Nestled in the heart of Wilton Manors, Florida, Gray Box Theater stands as a vibrant, community-driven nonprofit arts venue dedicated to fostering creativity, connection, and cultural expression. Since our founding, we have been committed to providing an accessible platform for artists of all backgrounds to share their stories and talents with a diverse audience.
As a registered 501(c)(3) organization, Gray Box Theater works in close collaboration with local artists, passionate volunteers, and valued community partners. Together, we curate and present an eclectic mix of performances that span original plays, live music, spoken word, cabaret, and a variety of special events. Our programming reflects the richness and diversity of the community we serve, supporting both emerging voices and established artists.
Our intimate 240-seat theater offers a uniquely immersive experience, inviting audiences into a close, personal setting that enhances the connection between performers and viewers. This environment nurtures an inclusive space where diverse voices and stories can thrive, breaking down barriers and encouraging dialogue through the arts.
Presented by CAN Community Health, Gray Box Theater benefits from strong financial support and strategic partnerships that enable us to maintain affordable access for emerging and upcoming artists. Additionally, we make our space available to outside artists and promoters, providing a flexible and welcoming venue for a wide range of creative events and collaborations.
Guided by a dedicated Board of Trustees, our mission extends beyond entertainment; we strive to enrich our community culturally and socially through the power of live performance. Whether you are an artist seeking a supportive platform, a volunteer eager to contribute your time and talents, or a patron looking for meaningful and inspiring entertainment, Gray Box Theater welcomes you to join our growing family.
Together, we celebrate the transformative power of live performance — a force that inspires creativity, fosters healing, and unites people across all walks of life.
Mission
Gray Box Theater’s mission is to provide an inclusive, accessible, and professionally equipped space where artists, organizations, and communities can come together to create, collaborate, and share meaningful experiences through the performing arts. Our mission is to empower others to tell their stories, elevate diverse voices, and foster connection by offering a supportive environment that nurtures creativity, dialogue, and innovation. We are committed to being a welcoming home for performances, rehearsals, workshops, and community gatherings that reflect and celebrate the richness of the human experience.
Board of Trustees
At Gray Box Theater, our mission to foster creativity, inclusivity, and community engagement is guided by a passionate and dedicated Board of Trustees. These individuals generously volunteer their time and expertise — they are unpaid volunteer community members committed to supporting the theater’s vision and sustainability.
Who We Are
Our Board of Trustees is composed of community leaders, arts advocates, and professionals from diverse backgrounds who bring a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to the arts. Each member volunteers their time and expertise to help govern the organization, uphold its values, and provide strategic oversight.
Our Role and Responsibilities
The Board of Trustees is responsible for:
- Establishing and overseeing the strategic direction of Gray Box Theater
- Ensuring the organization’s financial health and accountability
- Supporting fundraising and community outreach efforts
- Approving budgets, policies, and major initiatives
- Hiring and evaluating executive leadership and management
- Advocating for the theater within the broader community
Commitment to Transparency and Accountability
As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, Gray Box Theater is committed to maintaining the highest standards of transparency, ethical governance, and community trust. Our Board members uphold these values to ensure the theater remains a vibrant, accessible, and financially sound cultural institution.
While we strive to operate transparently, certain contractual agreements—such as artist fee contracts and performance settlements—are subject to confidentiality. To review these documents, a confidentiality and non-disclosure agreement must be signed, in accordance with industry standards and to protect artist contracts and privacy rights.
Gary A. Van Horn Jr, Co-Founder and Chairperson, is a visionary leader, community advocate, and creative force behind Gray Box Theater. With a deep passion for storytelling, equity, and the transformative power of the arts, Gary brings decades of experience in event production, nonprofit leadership, and LGBTQ+ advocacy to the organization. He has played a pivotal role in shaping the theater’s mission to be an inclusive, immersive space where bold new works and reimagined classics come to life. From building community partnerships to curating thoughtful programming, Gary ensures every production reflects the theater’s core values of authenticity, accessibility, and innovation.
A lifelong supporter of the arts, Gary’s background spans everything from producing large-scale city festivals and cultural events to mentoring emerging creatives and directing nonprofit organizations. His work has earned recognition for blending logistics with heart—where precision meets purpose. Under his leadership, Gray Box Theater has become more than a venue; it is a space for connection, expression, and impact. Whether welcoming audiences, collaborating with artists, or helping shape the future of the arts in South Florida, Gary’s energy and vision remain at the center of this creative movement.
Christopher J. Caputo, Co‑Founder and Trustee, brings together civic leadership, entrepreneurial vision, and a deep commitment to community. As Vice Mayor of Wilton Manors and a longtime resident, Chris has been a tireless advocate for inclusive governance, small business growth, affordable housing, and cultural engagement. Since taking office in 2020, he has helped build meaningful partnerships between the City of Wilton Manors and local organizations—including Gray Box Theater—creating opportunities that celebrate diversity and strengthen community ties.
In addition to his public service, Chris is the founder and owner of Peak Fitness, an innovative EMS (electrical muscle stimulation) studio located in the heart of Wilton Manors. Through Peak Fitness, he promotes wellness, accessibility, and healthy living in a supportive, community-driven environment. Whether leading from City Hall or the gym floor, Chris uses his platform to champion youth programs, public health, and creative collaboration—advancing Gray Box Theater’s mission to inspire, uplift, and unite through the power of the arts.
Debra J. Van Horn, Trustee, lends her seasoned marketing and corporate leadership expertise to the board of Gray Box Theater. A retired marketing executive, Debra spent over 30 years with Long John Silver’s, where she played a key role in brand development, national promotions, and strategic communications. Her experience brings a results-driven mindset and a deep understanding of audience engagement—critical assets in shaping the theater’s visibility, outreach, and impact.
Now enjoying retirement in South Florida, Debra remains an active supporter of local arts and civic initiatives. Among her greatest accomplishments, she proudly counts her two sons, Chad and Gary, both of whom have pursued lives of leadership and service. She’s also a devoted grandma to Chuckles, her son Chad and daughter-in-law Gabriela’s lovable 5-year-old Goldendoodle, who’s often seen out and about bringing joy to everyone he meets. Through her role at Gray Box Theater, Debra continues to give back by helping create a space where creativity, inclusion, and storytelling thrive.
Dr. Khalid “Kal” S. Gajraj, Trustee*, is a dedicated communications strategist, educator, and advocate for inclusive leadership, bringing two decades of experience across healthcare, education, entertainment, and nonprofit sectors to his role supporting Gray Box Theater. As a senior leader at CAN Community Health—the presenting organization of Gray Box Theater—he spearheads marketing and engagement initiatives that amplify the theater’s mission and expand its community reach. His efforts help shape a space where storytelling, equity, and public wellness intersect.
Dr. Gajraj holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from DeVry University, an MBA in Nonprofit Public Administration from Keller Graduate School, and a Doctorate in Ethical Leadership from St. Thomas University. He is a certified global human rights consultant and holds credentials in social and behavioral research, as well as a Six Sigma Green Belt. In addition to teaching at Miami Dade College and serving on the advisory board of USF’s MUMA College of Business, Dr. Gajraj is a Contributor & Communications Council Member for Forbes. He brings a values-driven, inclusive lens to every aspect of his work—making him a vital partner in advancing Gray Box Theater’s commitment to connection, creativity, and community impact.
*Representative on behalf of the HarmonyWaves Board
Interested in Serving?
We are always looking for passionate individuals who want to contribute their skills and vision to support the arts and our community. If you are interested in learning more about joining the Board of Trustees or volunteering in other leadership capacities, please contact us at trustees@graybox.theater
