Sara Bareilles, a Grammy Award winner and seasoned performer, found herself feeling nervous at the Celebrating Sundance Institute fundraiser at Park City’s Grand Hyatt Deer Valley. Despite her experience on numerous stages, the star-studded event proved to be a daunting occasion for her.
Among the honorees and presenters at the fundraiser were filmmaker James Mangold, Broadway star Cynthia Erivo, Sundance Institute’s Michelle Satter, and celebrities like Glenn Close, Joel Edgerton, Marielle Heller, R.J. Cutler, and Tessa Thompson. Notable guests in attendance included Jon Hamm, Boots Riley, Kimberly Peirce, and Roger Ross Williams.
One reason for Bareilles’ nerves could be her deep connection to the film that brought her to Sundance this year. As an executive producer of Ryan White’s documentary “Come See Me in the Good Light,” Bareilles co-wrote a track titled “Salt Then Sour Then Sweet” with Andrea Gibson and Brandi Carlile. She performed this song, along with her hit song “She Used to Be Mine” from the Broadway musical “Waitress,” to close off the event.
The world premiere performance of “Salt Then Sour Then Sweet” by Sara Bareilles was a highlight of the evening, bringing a touching conclusion to the fundraiser. The emotional journey portrayed in the film resonated with the audience, making it a memorable and impactful experience for all involved.