Showcase of the Arts
Tampa Day School hosted the first Annual Showcase of the Arts on May 6th as a final tribute to its 40th Anniversary. Over 250 parents and professionals joined the TDS administration and faculty to pay homage to our students’ artistic talents. The picnic-style event was designed as part of the school’s promise to honor (UHA!-Understand, Honor, and Accommodate) individual student talents and strengths. Faculty at TDS recognize that far too often, students are defined by the things they can’t do instead of being noticed for unique gifts or strengths. The belief at TDS is that we start with the “cup half full” vs. the “cup half empty” and structure experiences that build from there. In an era of art program cutbacks, TDS is committed to maintaining a lively arts program to provide opportunities to cultivate hidden interests and talents or highlight previously identified areas of strength. These experiences are deemed necessary to create avenues for success, enhance self-esteem and increase confidence.
Honoring of students’ artistic expression was clearly the message of the day as evidenced by eager parents working diligently to capture the creative expressions of students on camera and video. Parents and visitors walked through the brightly decorated halls in awe to view artwork displays, watch video versions of musical theatre productions, interact with students dressed as characters from various productions, and examine student work samples and projects. Artists received acknowledgment as people circulated and experienced the thrill of selling select pieces of artwork.
In celebration of Tampa Day School’s 40-year history, students performed both choral and chime arrangements from the past four decades. As the grand finale, the audience listened attentively and laughed often as the upper division students sang a song they composed which highlighted each and every member of the TDS faculty and staff.
The event was a true community effort as members of the Dad’s Club volunteered at the Barbeque Grills, representatives of the Friend’s of Tampa Day School Board manned the silent auction station, and faculty and PTA members assisted with the numerous games and activities offered for children of all ages. The success of the day was due in large part to the generous contributions of time and energy of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Harvey, parents of a current seventh grade student. The Harvey family secured donations, organized the activities, and assisted with the planning and execution of the Showcase Event as well as with the 40th Anniversary kick-off last fall. Their efforts and the contributions of all involved made for a fun-filled day of artistic expression and appreciation. Given the widespread success of the event, the Showcase will be incorporated into the TDS annual calendar for years to come.
We invite you to join our Facebook community to view additional photos of the event.
