3 Must-See Events at This Year’s UCF Celebrates the Arts

Beginning last year, UCF Celebrates the Arts is a week-long event catering to demonstrate the integration of all things relating to art, culture, and UCF. The Dr. Phillips Center in Downtown Orlando explodes with paintings, interactive pieces, music, and an overall inspiring feeling. My time at UCF Celebrates the Arts last year consisted of being awe-struck by live “sculptures” and “paintings,” and being flown away with the story of Icarus, as told by the UCF Symphony Orchestra. With its opening year being such a critical hit, there is no surprise to the abundance of people rushing over to the Dr. Phillips Center, paying outrageous prices for parking for just a glimpse into the magic. However, with so much going on all over this event, it can be hard to decide when to make a grand entrance. Here are some performances and events that cannot be missed for the 2nd Annual UCF Celebrates the Arts. 

1.      UCF, Middle, and High School Choir Invitational

When and Where? Tuesday, April 12th, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m. Walt Disney Theater

Powerful vocalists from all ages come together to deliver the gift of music on Tuesday. After working all day with vocal specialist Sandra Snow, from Michigan State University, local middle schools (Maitland and Hunter’s Creek), high schools, (West Orange and Apopka), as well as UCF students, will be performing. To see choir from all walks of life will prove to be an educational and moving experience for all in the audience.

2.      Tableaux Vivants

When and Where? Friday, April 15th, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. Lobbies and public spaces throughout the center

A Tableaux Vivant is directly defined as “a silent and motionless group of people arranged to represent a scene or incident.” While the concept may sound simple on paper, this part of UCF Celebrates the Arts is the most recognized portion of the event, and what I remember most vividly about my first time. The UCF SVAD (School of Visual Art and Design) display a talent of engrossing the viewer in an artistic capsule. Favorites and classics come alive all around, leaving a lasting and breath-taking first impression. Be sure to look for pieces by Picasso, Klimt, and Cassatt, and many others when visiting this must- see portion.

3.      The Flying Horse Big Band Swings!

When and Where? Saturday, April 16th, 8 p.m. Walt Disney Theater

Since I have attended UCF, Flying Horse Big Band has been the best part of my experience as a college student. The music and talent demonstrated by this group is infinite, impressive, and totally fun. This Grammy Balloted Jazz group will be the finale to this week filled with all the arts. Playing several selections from their third release Into the Mystic, with special guests T-Bone and DaVonda Simmons, this is an ultimate must go.

With so much to see and experience, UCF Celebrates the Arts is truly a celebration of students of all ages, expressing themselves and doing what they love. It is a raw look into the successes of artists, musicians, dancers, singers, and thespians. And no matter what you attend, it will be a learning experience for all involved. If I could, I would camp out at Dr. Phillips until it is all over. Do not miss it!

** To make your UCF Arts experience smoother, UCF is offering shuttles to and from the Dr. Phillips center! Be sure to look for signs posted around campus for times of shuttle arrival and departure. And don’t miss Hans Zimmer! Although that goes without saying.**

Photo credit: Main Image, Image 1, Image 2, Image 3 

• 2016
• UCF