The VAPA Foundation Spotlight Benefit 'Beyond Brilliance'

The VAPA Foundation, whose mission is to enhance the quality of access to arts education in the San Diego Unified School District, will hold its fourth annual Spotlight benefit event, Beyond Brilliance Bash, on Saturday, May 20 at The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center in La Jolla (7600 Fay Avenue).

The event begins at 5 p.m. for VIP, where guests will be greeted with champagne and a performance at the JAI. It will be followed by a 6 p.m. welcome reception with delectable bites, cocktails, and pop-up performances in the courtyard. At 7 p.m., attendees will enjoy a production featuring musical and theatrical performances by highly gifted SDUSD student artists at the Baker-Baum Concert Hall. The event will close with live music from The Preservation Jazz Band and sweet treats. Guests are encouraged to wear creative and colorful attire.

The event will showcase the tremendous talents and creativity of visual and performing arts students enrolled in SDUSD, as the arts are essential for personal expression and the emotional and academic development of all children. Food service will be assisted by SDUSD Culinary Arts students mentored by Chef Giuseppe Ciuffa. The photography will be done by students mentored by Vincent Andrunas and Esteban Villanueva. Lighting and backstage support will be done by students mentored by The Conrad Performing Arts Center professionals.

There will also be a silent art auction featuring works created by UCSD Craft Center instructors, acclaimed community artists and art from local galleries. Paintings, lithographs, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry and more will be available during the silent auction.

Co-chaired by Doreen Schonbrun and Phyllis Epstein, the event will honor The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation for keeping music alive in schools by providing vital support services and new musical instruments to underfunded music programs nationwide. The evening will also celebrate Dr. Lamont Jackson, Superintendent of SDUSD, for his support and partnership of the VAPA Foundation.

For more information, to purchase tickets or sponsor the event, please visit here or contact Michael Camacho, Executive Director, at (858) 256-2700 or email michael@vapafoundation.org