Over 400 students from Dearborn Public Schools and Henry Ford Community College showcase their talents and creative energy each April at the annual Youth Arts Festival, a one day showcase featuring visual, instrumental, choral and theatrical offerings, illustrating the variety of art programs that engage Dearborn students and encourage them to excel.
The Youth Arts Festival is a co-operative project by the Dearborn Community Fund (DCF), Dearborn Public Schools and Henry Ford Community College with valuable support provided by: the City of Dearborn Recreation & Parks Department, Dearborn Community Arts Council, and other sponsors.
The program begins with the opening of the Dearborn Public Schools City Wide Art Show, which continues in the Padzieski Gallery at The Center through mid-May. Also on display are sculptures and creative writings from fifth grade students made from recycled items during workshops sponsored by the Dearborn Community Fund.
In the lobby, student musicians play as students and art teachers demonstrate arts and crafts such as drawing, painting, sculpting and how to make dolls, jewelry and origami.
In the Michael A. Guido Theater, performances include selections from recent high school theater performances, vocal and instrumental music by the Elementary and Secondary Honors Choirs, Blue Fusion from Henry Ford Community College, award winning high school choirs and bands, and the Maples Arabic Music Ensemble. Special guest performers include Dearborn schools graduates who are now professional musicians or visual artists.
The DCF is a 501c3 organization with the mission to support cultural and recreational programs in Dearborn. For more information about the Festival, other DCF projects, or how to contribute to the Fund, call 313-943-5478.