A special evening devoted to supporting student scholarships in the performing and fine arts is scheduled Saturday, February 22, at the Harold J. Miossi Cultural and Performing Arts Center and Gallery at Cuesta College.
For the first time, this annual Faculty Concert partners with Cuesta’s Art Gallery and Foundation
“It’s been gratifying to learn that the SLO community is really starting to see Cuesta College as the arts destination we know it to be,” according to CPAC supervisor Joan Hurwit. “Collaborating with Art Gallery coordinator Tim Stark to make our Arts Plaza as welcoming as it is innovative has been hard work, but such a joy.”
Hurwit points to the hard work and enthusiasm of Cuesta students of the arts. “It’s an honor for us to produce this event to better support them in achieving their goals.”
The evening begins at 6 p.m. with an Art Gallery reception featuring Daisy Patton’s Before These Witnesses, with 100% of proceeds from the sale of prints supporting scholarships. Then it’s on to refreshments at Cuesta’s Experimental Black Box Theater.
The evening continues on the Mainstage Theatre with performances by Cuesta College’s acclaimed music faculty, including Ana Nelson, Cassandra Tarantino, Chad Ruyle, Dave Becker, Dorian Michael, Dylan Johnson, Idona Cabrinha, Inga Swearingen, Jennifer Martin, Jennifer Jo, Joan Hurwit, John Knutson, Marcy Irving, Marshall Otwell, and Ron McCarley.
“Our students at Cuesta College tend to be talented but deeply in need of guidance and financial assistance,” says McCarley, director of the jazz studies program. “The arts are in an area that exists primarily outside of the realm of money and finances, and they give us perspective and keep us sane. With help, these students can be brought up to a level where they can contribute to our society and make a living for themselves in a way that helps all of us.”
Ticket sales directly benefit student scholarships, ensuring continued support for the next generation of artists and musicians. Since its inception, the annual event has raised over $100,000 for student scholarships. This year’s concert is sponsored by Joan G. Sargen, and Hope Family Wines has donated the evening’s wine selection.