– Photos by William Tauro

“The iBall: Keeping it Surreal” fundraiser for the Center for Arts at the Armory was a huge success. The event took place at the Armory, located at 191 Highland Avenue in Somerville, on Thursday evening.

This spring marks the third anniversary of The Armory opening as a community arts center under the leadership of the non-profit organization Center for Arts at the Armory. Funds raised will benefit Arts at the Armory’s cultural programming, which provides some of the most inventive music, theater, dance, poetry, talks and more in the Boston area. Events have included TEDx Somerville, the City’s Inaugural Celebration, and the Somerville Winter Farmer’s Market. Providing educational programming for adults and children is also at the core of its mission.

Performances during the main event included funk/brass band Revolutionary Snake Ensemble, led by saxophonist Ken Field, and Boston rock institution Willie “Loco” Alexander.

The inaugural Arts at the Armory Billy Ruane Awards were presented to some of the organization’s big champions, including the Saters from the Middle East Restaurant, and Mario Leon from Somerville restaurant Dali. Ruane and his family have been ardent supporters of Arts at the Armory and this is a fitting way to honor Ruane, who meant so much to the music scene and Boston.

Former Somerville Mayor Gene Brune was the special speaker of the evening as well as presenter of the awards.

Ray Zonghetti was one of the three recipients presented an award for helping the Armory build their organization.