Students To Shine In The Spotlight During Detroit Public Schools Community District’s “An Evening Of Fine Arts” At The Fox Theatre May 18

(DETROIT – March 9, 2023) – More than 200 middle and high school fine and performing arts students will showcase their immense talent during a public event at the historic Fox Theatre for the Detroit Public Schools Community District’s (DPSCD) “An Evening of Fine Arts,” at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 18.

The community will be treated to performances by DPSCD’s top instrumental music ensembles, vocal music ensembles, dance companies and theatre excerpts. In addition, original works of art by the district’s top visual artists will be displayed in the Fox Theatre’s Grand Lobby. It is a celebration of the students’ achievements and provides them with a one-of-a-kind experience to perform on the same stage as the world’s greatest artists. DPSCD’s signature event will celebrate its 54^th anniversary this year, and it kicks off their “Come Home” Alumni Hall of Fame Weekend.  

An Evening of Fine Arts triumphantly returned to the Fox Theatre last May through the combined support from Comerica Bank, 313 Presents, Olympia Development, Ilitch Sports + Entertainment and Detroit ACE. The united philanthropic effort generates a greater impact and inspires thousands of Detroiters as they gather to celebrate the students’ accomplishments.

“It is impossible not to have goosebumps while watching our students perform at this event. We are grateful for the support we have received as a District to bring back this event to the Fox Theatre,” said Dr. Nikolai Vitti, Superintendent, DPSCD. “It means so much to our students and their teachers and families. If you did not attend the event last year, you need to attend this year. The performances match any professional concert!!!” 

The Ilitch Companies have supported Detroit Public Schools students over the years and An Evening of Fine Arts is a natural extension of the partnership that has included financial and in-kind donations, internships and educational programs.

“The students’ dedication and talent are testaments to their own abilities, as well as the incredible guidance of their teachers and the support of their entire school community,” said Chris Ilitch, CEO, Ilitch Companies. “An Evening of Fine Arts is a major highlight of our long-standing partnership with the Detroit Public Schools Community District. It is an honor to host and showcase these remarkably talented young performers on the historic Fox Theatre stage.”

Admission to An Evening of Fine Arts is free and open to the public. Tickets are required for entry and available in advance at participating schools, the DPSCD Office of Fine Arts and Eventbrite.com.

“An Evening of Fine Arts has become a beautiful community celebration of our youth’s extraordinary talents and unbelievable artistic gifts,” said Steve Davis, Comerica Bank Michigan Market President. “We appreciate the opportunity to team with 313 Presents, Ilitch Companies and the City of Detroit to offer this stage and connect our community to one of this year’s most rewarding events. Along with our partners, we can’t wait to see what the performing students from Detroit Public Schools will present this year at the Fox Theatre, one of the most iconic and historic venues in the country.”

313 Presents President Howard Handler said he’s thrilled that the community will get to experience these students’ talents first-hand. “313 Presents is proud to continue its support of Detroit Public Schools Community District’s An Evening of Fine Arts at the Fox Theatre,” Handler said. “The event not only provides inspiration to the students who showcase their work on a such grand stage, but also inspires the community to lift our young people and celebrate their passion and potential. We hope the success of the event continues to build and cannot wait to see what students have in store for us this year.”  

Rochelle Riley, the city’s Director of Arts and Culture, said “It is vital that we not only celebrate excellence, but celebrate it early. Our children who want to become part of one of the nation’s most vibrant and accomplished creative workforces, need to know that they don’t have to leave Detroit to be great and they can take great stages before Carnegie Hall. They can be showcased at one of our preeminent venues – the Fox Theatre. They deserve it, and so does the city. I cannot wait to see them shine.”

For more information about An Evening of Fine Arts visit Detroitk12.org and follow the district on Facebook at Detroit Public Schools Community District, Twitter at @Detroitk12, and Instagram at @Detroitk12.