The Tampa Connection class of 2018-2019 truly enjoyed an Arts Day that took us through the  history, diversity, and love for arts and music in the Tampa Bay Community.

The day began with an entertaining and humorous tour of the Tampa Theatre, where we were immersed in the beautiful architecture, art, and history of the beloved, historic landmark, which is one of the oldest and most elaborate movie palaces in the nation.

Following a magnificent tour of the theatre, the class gathered in the main auditorium to hear from a diverse group of speakers including Robin Franklin Nigh, Manager, Art Programs Division City of Tampa; David Cox, Executive Director of Gasparilla Music Foundation; and Maurice Allen, Founder of the Tampa Bay Jazz Fest and the Tampa Bay Gospel Music Fest. Learning about the diverse and historical impact of art and music in the Tampa Bay community sparked great discussion and questions between the class and guest speakers.

We then headed over to the TECO Theater at the Straz Center for Performing Arts where we participated in a very entertaining improv session and had an informative tour of the entire theatre beginning with a view of the many dressing rooms and intricate systems of backstage. The class ended the tour with a fantastic class photo on stage in the Carol Morsani Hall and moved river-side to enjoy happy hour with their teams, fellow class members and board under the Straz’s beautiful waterside pavilion.

Thank you again to Tampa Theatre, Straz Center for the Performing Arts and our speakers for helping us create such a well-received Arts Day. We’d love for you to attend some upcoming events that our speakers and partners presented.

Tampa Bay Jazz Fest “The Love Experience”  | February 15

Tampa Theatre Wine Fest 2019: Vino Royale | February 22-23

Tampa Theatre Hollywood Awards Night 2019 | February 24

Gasparilla Music Festival | March 9-10

Tampa Gospel Music Fest | June 1

Lights on Tampa – November 2020