Studio 54 in New York City was once the scene of the hottest nightlife to be found. Saturday night, gala-goers will seek to recreate that 1970s disco feel at Arts of the Pamlico’s Studio 54 gala fundraiser.

For the third year running, Arts of the Pamlico has held a gala to raise money to support its home of the historic Turnage Theatre. Last year’s event saw ticketholders dressed in the fringe and bows of the Roaring ‘20s; the year before, the Phantom of the Opera was the theme and featured sporadic operatic performances by East Carolina University students throughout the night.

Jeffery Phipps, a longtime AOP volunteer and an organizer for the past two years of events, said he is taking a backseat to a new generation of AOP members for this year’s event. AOP’s Young Patrons are putting their own swing on fundraising with Saturday night’s flashback to the ‘70s.

“It evolved from that initial lunch meeting when we were organizing the Young Patrons — they said a disco party would be great. They thought it would be a good thing for husbands to get involved in,” Phipps laughed.

Costuming and décor is Phipps’ forte, and he said the early 20^th-century theatre will be dressed in (1970s) style, including the requisite disco ball over the dancefloor. Unlike prior years’ events, the gallery space and theater space will switch uses: the dancefloor will be on the Turnage and the dinner of Beef Wellington, garlic mashed potatoes, green bean almondine and salad, made by Rachel K’s Bakery, will be served in the gallery.

Raffles are also a part of the evening’s festivities with gift baskets, jewelry, gift certificates and more donated by local merchants, Phipps said.

“We did get this year, a sponsorship from The Rich Company, which we are very thankful for,” Phipps said. “And there’s going to be a couple of little surprises for people — entertainment wise.”

There are limited tickets left, which can be purchased by calling 252-946-2504. The Studio 54 gala begins at 7:30 p.m.

“It’s going to be a sort of a step back in time to the disco ’70s,” Phipps said. “So pull out that polyester leisure suit and your platform shoes, and come see us.”