About Arts Alive! A Celebration of the Arts

This event is expected to sell out quickly. Purchase your tickets soon to guarantee your seat for this premier event.

5:30 - 6:30: Reception and Silent Auction MPAC Lobby

Be entertained by some of Manatee County’s most gifted performing artists while enjoying an open bar and complimentary hors de’ouvres catered by Pier 22. Browse the Superintendent’s Honor Gallery to see top visual artwork from our middle and high school artists and bid on these pieces plus more in the silent auction.

6:30 - 8:00 PM: Arts Alive Program and Awards Ceremony Begins in MPAC Theatre

After our reception and silent auction, join us in recognizing some of the dedicated educators and leaders who have been responsible for nurturing the talents and abilities of hundreds of students over the years. This year’s celebration is special for two reasons. Not only is it the very first Manatee Arts Education Council Arts Alive Awards, but the recipient in each category will have the additional distinction of the award holding their name in perpetuity. During the awards program, students from our elementary, middle, and high schools will be showcasing myriad talents, from music and dance to film production. The Distinguished Alumni Award will be presented to our homegrown American Idol finalist, Sam Woolf who will also entertain the crowd with a performance to close out the event.

Event Sponsor