The Howard County Arts Council Announces 22nd Annual Celebration Of The Arts Gala

There's still time to reserve your tickets for Howard County's signature arts event! The Howard County Arts Council presents the Celebration of the Arts in Howard County on Saturday, March 23, 2019 at the Peter and Elizabeth Horowitz Visual and Performing Arts Center, Howard Community College, Columbia, MD.

Tickets are $100 and $50 online at https://www.hocoarts.org/explore/learn-participate/celebration-of-the-arts/tickets/, 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 begins at 6 p.m. with a reception featuring an auction of beautiful artwork by local artists, delectable edibles from area restaurants, and live musical performances. At 8 p.m. the Celebration continues with a 90-minute performance highlighted by the Rising Star Performing Arts Competition and the presentation of the 2018 Howie Awards! $100 tickets include the reception, art auction, and reserved seats in the Smith Theatre; $50 tickets include the reception, art auction, and general seating in the Studio Theatre for a simulcast of the event.

The Rising Star Performing Arts Competition features a talented group of emerging performing artists competing for a professional development award of $5,000! The audience will vote for their favorite performance, with the winner announced live on stage. The Rising Stars performing at the 2019 Celebration are Curtis Bannister, Musical Theatre; Tae Ho Hwang, Saxophone; Kate Jackman, Classical Voice; Haerin Jee, Violin; Min Sang Kim, Classical Voice; and L'abri Trio, Instrumental Ensemble.

The Howie Awards honor individuals or businesses that have made a significant impact on the arts in Howard County. The 2018 recipients are: Brenda Kidera for Outstanding Artist, David Matchim for Outstanding Arts Educator, and HorseSpirit Arts Gallery for Outstanding Business Supporter of the Arts. This year, two special Howie Awards will also be presented: a Legacy in the Arts Award to Fern Eisner (posthumously) and the Coleen West Leadership in the Arts Award to Theresa Colvin, Director of the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation and former Director of the Maryland State Arts Council.

Mary Kay Sigaty, former Howard County Council member, artist, teacher, and active supporter of numerous community and charitable organizations in Howard County, will act as Honorary Chair for the evening. Joseph Ritsch, Producing Artistic Director for Rep Stage, will serve as Event Emcee.

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