July 8, 2024
Contact: Stephanie Schuster
Phone: 410-313-2787
Email: development@hocoarts.org
Join the Howard County Arts Council for the 27th annual Celebration of the Arts
ELLICOTT CITY, MD – The brightest stars of Howard County’s local arts community will take the stage as the Howard County Arts Council presents the 27th annual Celebration of the Arts in Howard County on Saturday, November 2, 2024, from 6-10 pm. at the Peter and Elizabeth Horowitz Visual and Performing Arts Center at Howard Community College.
The Celebration of the Arts begins at 6 p.m. with a reception featuring culinary delicacies from area restaurants, a Gala Art Auction of amazing works by local artists, and wonderful live musical performances. At 8 pm., guests will take their seats in either the Smith Theatre or The Rouse Company Foundation Studio Theatre for the Rising Star Performing Arts Competition and the presentation of the Howie Awards. Performances and awards will be presented live in the Smith Theatre and simulcast in the Studio Theatre. Tickets will go on sale August 1, 2024.
Tonya Aikens, President & CEO of Howard County Library System will act as Honorary Chair for the Evening. She is a steadfast champion for the arts and education. Tonya consistently seeks ways to connect people with resources and opportunities to enhance their lives and our community. Under her leadership, the library launched the art lending collection and hired its first art curriculum specialist. She has called Howard County home since 2018 Terry Eberhardt will serve as Event Emcee.
The Rising Star Performing Arts Competition showcases emerging performing artists or small ensembles (ages 18-35) – who live, work or study in Howard County – competing for a no-strings-attached professional development cash award of $5,000. The audience will select the winner by popular vote.
The Howie Awards will also be presented at the Celebration. The Howie Awards are given annually to an Outstanding Artist, Outstanding Arts Educator, and Outstanding Business or Community Supporter of the Arts. Nominees are judged on their contributions and the significant impact they’ve had on the artistic life of Howard County.