The Cultural Council’s Annual Membership Event Is Enriched by Young Artists

June 2005

Over 100 arts and culture enthusiasts gathered for the Palm Beach County Cultural Council’s Annual Membership Meeting and Event at the Lighthouse Center for the Arts in Tequesta on May 24. The crowd enjoyed a K-12 visual arts exhibition, plus dance and music created by some of the County’s most talented youth.

Cultural Council members, Board, and guests mingled while admiring various works of art from the 35th Annual Community Student Art Exhibition displayed throughout the Center. Selected by Palm Beach and Martin County School District art teachers, students’ works were drawn from 26 schools across the Counties. Another highlight of the evening was the young dancers of the Florida Classical Ballet Theatre, ages 14 to 17 years old, who performed dances including variations of Coppellia and Les Sylphides. Also performing were eighteen vocalists from the Young Singers of the Palm Beaches led by Connie Drosakis and accompanied by pianist and Artistic Director Shawn Berry. Musical selections covered a broad spectrum, from spirituals and jazz to pop. The evening culminated with a remarkable performance by a six-member classical string ensemble from the Youth Orchestra of Palm Beach County.

“These young artists not only performed exceptionally, but they also provided a tangible energy that embodies some of the finest arts and cultural education in our County,” said Rena Blades, Cultural Council President and CEO.
“We’re very pleased to bring a preview of the future of Palm Beach County arts and culture to our members and friends during this event,” Ms. Blades added.

In addition to the young performers, the evening featured a brief presentation acknowledging local legislators. State Representatives Carl Domino and Mary Brandenburg, as well as Ginger Baldwin, Legislative Assistant to Senator Ken Pruitt, were recognized for their hard work on behalf of Palm Beach County arts and culture during the recent legislation session.

Marta Batmasian, Cultural Council Board Chair, summarized the evening by quoting a second grade artist. The student’s words were framed and hung as part of the Student Art Exhibit and reflected the sentiments of the crowd: “Art is a Reminder that we have Culture,”

For more information please contact: Larry Boytano Public Relations Coordinator
Palm Beach County Cultural Council
1555 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd., #300
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Tel. (561) 471-1601
Fax (561) 687-9484
mail to:lboytano@pbccc.org
www.palmbeachculture.com

The Palm Beach County Cultural Council was founded in 1978 by Alexander W. Dreyfoos as the Palm Beach County Council of the Arts to develop, coordinate and promote the arts and cultural activities throughout Palm Beach County. It is officially recognized by the Board of County Commissioners as the County's advisory agency for cultural development and administers a portion of local tourist development funds under contract with county government. It is an independent nonprofit membership organization with 501(c)(3) federal tax-exempt status, Florida Registration number SC01489. All contributions are deductible to the full extent of the law.