PASO ROBLES — Paso Robles Youth Arts Foundation’s 8th Annual Dining with the Arts Gala is set for Saturday, Nov. 9.
Dining with the Arts Gala is a favorite event that raises critical funds for PRYAF’s free Visual and Performing Arts Program. Tickets are very limited and have sold out in past years. Guests left the 2018 Gala saying they had never seen anything like it, according to organizers. Reserve a seat today by calling 805-238-5825 x15 or emailing emilyjagger@pryaf.org. Reserve online at pryaf.org/tickets/.
Something special happens when donors, and students come together for a good cause in the Berg Auditorium, located at Paso Robles Youth Arts Foundation, 3201 Spring St., Paso Robles. Guests will be treated to a Visual Art Show presented by PRYAF’s Art Students and performances by Dance, Music and Theater Students.
“We have a very talented, experienced staff of administrators and instructors — many of whom are professional artists themselves — who provide instruction in a wide variety of classes in art, dance, voice, theater, music, and more. We also have state-of-the-art instruments and equipment, and a fantastic facility that provides a safe and clean learning environment. All of this is provided at absolutely no cost to families,” says Mindy Dierks, PRYAF Executive Director. “We rely entirely on donations, grants, and support from the community through events like this.”
The evening, emceed by Board President, Leo Castillo, includes Riverstar Vineyards champagne, fine local wines, Firestone Walker Brewing Company and Lagunitas beer, a spectacular dinner and delicious hors d’oeuvres specially themed and catered by award-winning Chef, Jeffry Wiesinger. Exciting live, silent and cake auctions will follow and the crowning jewel — a stunning student performance telling a powerful story like only PRYAF can tell it (with sets by Chris Skanes). PRYAF Students will perform on stage during dinner and alumni will serve the tables. Wine is included at the table. Tickets are $95 per person and $760 for a table of eight.
PRYAF is celebrating its 21st year serving the local community and has provided free art instruction to nearly 15,000 students since its inception. When recent statewide budget cuts forced local schools to reduce or altogether eliminate their arts programs, PRYAF increased the number of classes offered to help fill the void.
“What’s amazing to me is that I still run into people on a regular basis who’ve lived in the area for a long time but have never heard of PRYAF before. They are just now learning about us and want to know how they can get involved and what they can do to help,” says Dierks. “Throughout the years, we’ve provided a great service to the community and in return, the community has really embraced us and allowed us to be successful. I’m really excited for what the next 20 years will bring!”
You can be a champion for youth arts by sponsoring a child. Event and student sponsorships are needed and will be gratefully acknowledged publicly at the event, in PRYAF’s newsletter and on social media.
For information regarding making a donation, volunteering, attending events, fundraisers, or classes, contact PRYAF at 805-238-5825 or visit pryaf.org.
