'Celebration of the Arts in Howard County' Will Take Place 3/26

Tickets are available for Howard County's signature event, Celebration of the Arts in Howard County, on Saturday, March 26, 2011 held at Peter and Elizabeth Horowitz Visual and Performing Arts Center, Howard Community College, Columbia, MD. Tickets can be purchased online at www.hocoarts.org, by phone at 410-313-ARTS (2787) or in the office at Howard County Arts Council, 8510 High Ridge Road, Ellicott City, MD 21043. Any remaining tickets will be available at the box office on the day of the event.

This year's gala will feature a reception from 6-8 p.m. with a silent auction of artwork by local artists, culinary delights from area restaurants and caterers, and live performances. At 8 p.m. the Celebration continues with a 90-minute presentation featuring the Rising Star Competition and the 2010 Howie Awards! $100 tickets include the reception, silent auction and reserved seats in the Smith Theatre; $50 tickets include the reception, silent auction and general seating in the Screening Club for the simulcast.

The Rising Star Competition showcases ten, young performing artists vying for three no-strings-attached professional development awards. This year, in honor of the Arts Council's 30th Anniversary, and because of the support of an anonymous donor, the Arts Council will be able to give out three awards to support emerging performing artists. The audience will vote and choose winners to receive $1,000, $2,500 & $5,000! The ten finalists who will perform at the Celebration are: Stephanie E. Barnes (Opera), Heather Marie Beck (Musical Theatre), Charise T. Byers (Dance), David Fair (Opera), Jillian Finnamore (Opera), Thomas Edward Hunter (Piano), Emma Jensen (Opera), Clare Kneebone (Musical Theatre), Robin Fay Massie (Viola), and Evan Sanderson (Theatre).

The presentation of the Howie Awards honors individuals or businesses that have made a significant impact on the arts in Howard County. The 2010 recipients are: Ian Gallanar for Outstanding Artist, Sally Livingston for Outstanding Arts Educator, and Darlene Miller for Outstanding Community Supporter of the Arts. This year, we will also be honoring the late Bob Russell with a special Legacy in the Arts Award.

At this year's gala Peter & Elizabeth Horowitz will serve as 30th Anniversary Event Hosts, Bach & Bob Jeffrey will serve as Honorary Chairs, and Richard W. Story, CEO, Howard County Economic Development Authority will serve as Event Emcee.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit us online at www.hocoarts.org or call 410-313-ARTS (2787).

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