For Their Outstanding Support and the Unveiling of the
Davide De Simone Performance Hall
On Wednesday, November 20, the Town of Aurora hosted a special donor recognition event to honor Royalpark Homes and their exceptional contribution to Aurora Town Square. During the event, the Performance Hall was officially named the Davide De Simone Performance Hall, a tribute to a remarkable individual and his family’s lasting impact on the community.
The event celebrated the enduring legacy of Davide De Simone and the profound contributions of his family to Aurora. In attendance were Davide’s wife, Raffaella; his son, Marco, with his wife, Mani; his daughters, Paula and Serena; and his son, Davide. Their presence underscored the De Simone family’s deep connection to Aurora’s vibrant arts and culture scene.
The occasion featured heartfelt musical performances, including a classical guitar piece by Tonino Chiodo, a long-time friend of Davide De Simone, and a special performance by Davide’s granddaughter, Serena De Simone. These personal tributes added a meaningful touch to the event, reflecting the family’s rich ties to the arts.
Marco De Simone spoke movingly about his father’s journey to Canada as a teenager and the enduring impact of his legacy. He shared how Davide was driven by courage, an adventurous spirit, and a sensational thirst for knowledge and culture. Marco also highlighted his father’s profound love for the arts, which inspired and brought joy to those around him.
Doug Skeffington, partner at Royalpark Homes, also joined the celebration, reflecting on the company’s commitment to supporting initiatives that strengthen the cultural and social fabric of the community.
“The Davide De Simone Performance Hall, on behalf of Royalpark Homes, is truly the centerpiece of the indoor space and will continue to host world-class performances and events for years to come,” said Mayor Tom Mrakas.
Thanks to the generosity of donors like Royalpark Homes and the De Simone family, the Town surpassed its goal of raising $5 million from community members and businesses for Aurora Town Square. This newly opened arts and culture hub, located in the heart of downtown Aurora, represents a vibrant addition to the community.
Although the Town’s major Capital Campaign—focused on securing donations of $50,000 and above—has officially concluded, contributions of $10,000 and above are still welcome through the ongoing Community Campaign. Every donation plays a vital role in shaping the future of Aurora and leaves a lasting impact for generations to come.
By supporting Aurora Town Square, donors are helping to drive the growth of the downtown core, strengthen local businesses, and inspire future investment. Discover how you can contribute to the transformation and redevelopment of Aurora’s historic downtown through this meaningful fundraising campaign.