This year's Spotlight on Youth took place on Sunday, March 18, 2007 at the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. The event was a huge success for all involved. Each year Spotlight serves as both a fundraiser for the programs of CDS and as a prevention activity.

Each year, audition applications are sent out to schools in the CDS service area in September. From these applications, auditions are arranged for January. Then, between January and March the arduous process of creating an electrifying live show occurs. This year over 100 high school students performed jazz, ballet and folk dances; sang opera and Broadway tunes; and played the violin and the piano for a grateful crowd of over 500 people. From the rousing One Day More (from the musical Les Miserables ) with its cast of 45 costumed students, to the creative Imagine that gently combined Korean folk music, Indian dance, and John Lennon's song Imagine, there was something for everyone.

In addition, in the upper lobby of the theater over 40 students from five different high schools displayed visual works of art including photography, watercolor and oil painting, and pottery. A VIP reception prior to the show was held upstairs, giving attendees a close-up look at these beautiful works of art. Just after intermission, all the visual artists and poets whose work appeared in the program were called up onto the stage to receive formal recognition and a huge round of applause from the grateful audience.

The final two components to the evening were a dessert reception after the show that rewarded performers for all their hard work and allowed the community to mingle with the stars of the show. A silent auction ran throughout the evening and helped raise funds for CDS.

CDS would like to thank everyone who played a role in this year's event for their dedication to our mission. We could not keep growing and improving without your help. See you next year!!

April 10, 2007

Master & Mistress of Ceremonies

Pianist prepares onstage

Soloist performs