Students to Shine in the Spotlight During Detroit Public Schools Community District’s “An Evening of Fine Arts” at the Fox Theatre May 18

DETROIT – (March 9, 2023) –More than 200 middle and high school fine and performing arts students will showcase their immense talent during a public event at the historic Fox Theatre for the Detroit Public Schools Community District’s (DPSCD) “An Evening of Fine Arts,” at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 18. 

The community will be treated to performances by DPSCD’s top instrumental music ensembles, vocal music ensembles, dance companies and theatre excerpts. In addition, original works of art by the district’s top visual artists will be displayed in the Fox Theatre’s Grand Lobby. It is a celebration of the students’ achievements and provides them with a one-of-a-kind experience to perform on the same stage as the world’s greatest artists. DPSCD’s signature event will celebrate its 54th anniversary this year, and it kicks off their “Come Home” Alumni Hall of Fame Weekend.  

An Evening of Fine Arts triumphantly returned to the Fox Theatre last May through the combined support from Comerica Bank, 313 Presents, Olympia Development, Ilitch Sports + Entertainment and Detroit ACE. The united philanthropic effort generates a greater impact and inspires thousands of Detroiters as they gather to celebrate the students’ accomplishments. 

“It is impossible not to have goosebumps while watching our students perform at this event. We are grateful for the support we have received as a District to bring back this event to the Fox Theatre,” said Dr. Nikolai Vitti, Superintendent, DPSCD. “It means so much to our students and their teachers and families. If you did not attend the event last year, you need to attend this year. The performances match any professional concert!!!” 

The Ilitch Companies have supported Detroit Public Schools students over the years and An Evening of Fine Arts is a natural extension of the partnership that has included financial and in-kind donations, internships and educational programs.

“The students’ dedication and talent are testaments to their own abilities, as well as the incredible guidance of their teachers and the support of their entire school community,” said Chris Ilitch, CEO, Ilitch Companies. “An Evening of Fine Arts is a major highlight of our long-standing partnership with the Detroit Public Schools Community District. It is an honor to host and showcase these remarkably talented young performers on the historic Fox Theatre stage.” 

Admission to An Evening of Fine Arts is free and open to the public. Tickets are required for entry and available in advance at participating schools, the DPSCD Office of Fine Arts and Eventbrite.com

“An Evening of Fine Arts has become a beautiful community celebration of our youth’s extraordinary talents and unbelievable artistic gifts,” said Steve Davis, Comerica Bank Michigan Market President. “We appreciate the opportunity to team with 313 Presents, Ilitch Companies and the City of Detroit to offer this stage and connect our community to one of this year’s most rewarding events. Along with our partners, we can’t wait to see what the performing students from Detroit Public Schools will present this year at the Fox Theatre, one of the most iconic and historic venues in the country.” 

313 Presents President Howard Handler said he’s thrilled that the community will get to experience these students’ talents first-hand. “313 Presents is proud to continue its support of Detroit Public Schools Community District’s An Evening of Fine Arts at the Fox Theatre,” Handler said. “The event not only provides inspiration to the students who showcase their work on a such grand stage, but also inspires the community to lift our young people and celebrate their passion and potential. We hope the success of the event continues to build and cannot wait to see what students have in store for us this year.”  

Rochelle Riley, the city’s Director of Arts and Culture, said “It is vital that we not only celebrate excellence, but celebrate it early. Our children who want to become part of one of the nation’s most vibrant and accomplished creative workforces, need to know that they don’t have to leave Detroit to be great and they can take great stages before Carnegie Hall. They can be showcased at one of our preeminent venues – the Fox Theatre. They deserve it, and so does the city. I cannot wait to see them shine.” 

For more information about An Evening of Fine Arts visit Detroitk12.org and follow the district on Facebook at Detroit Public Schools Community District, Twitter at @Detroitk12, and Instagram at @Detroitk12

About Detroit Public Schools Community District

Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) is Michigan’s largest public education system. It is governed by a locally elected, seven-member board with Dr. Nikolai Vitti serving as superintendent. The District’s mission is to provide every student with a beneficial and rightful educational experience, preparing students to be career and college ready, and qualified to compete in the global market.  For more information, visit detroitk12.org and follow @detroitk12 on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.    

About 313 Presents

313 Presents is Detroit’s premier live entertainment company. Inspired by the soul of Detroit, 313 Presents promotes and produces concerts, theatrical productions, sporting events and family shows at six world-class venues across southeast Michigan, including Little Caesars Arena, the historic Fox Theatre featuring Proud Partner Comerica Bank, Comerica Park, Pine Knob Music Theatre Presented by Proud Partners United Wholesale Mortgage, Trinity Health and Ally, Meadow Brook Amphitheatre and Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre. Headquartered in The District of Detroit, 313 Presents is a joint venture between Ilitch Sports + Entertainment and Pistons Sports & Entertainment. For additional information, visit 313Presents.com

About Olympia Development of Michigan

Olympia Development of Michigan, an Ilitch company, is a real estate development firm dedicated to improving the lives of people who live, work, and play in Detroit and beyond. Through catalytic developments, innovative design and construction, and inclusive placemaking, Olympia Development continues to create jobs, increase tax base, and grow businesses in Detroit while steadily creating one of the world’s most dynamic sports and entertainment destinations, The District Detroit. The District Detroit unites world-class theatres, four professional sports teams and three multi-use sports facilities, including Comerica Park – home of the Detroit Tigers, and the state-of-the-art, award-winning Little Caesars Arena – home of the Detroit Red Wings, the Detroit Pistons and world-class entertainment and community events. The District Detroit also includes retail, residential, educational, and commercial office developments, such as the Mike Ilitch School of Business at Wayne State University, the Little Caesars World Headquarters, the Eddystone, Women’s City Club, 2715 Woodward, the future University of Michigan Center for Innovation, and more. 

About Ilitch Sports + Entertainment

Ilitch Sports + Entertainment (IS+E) provides world-class sports and entertainment experiences to fans, guests, and corporate partners. IS+E was formed as the shared business arm of the storied Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Tigers, Olympia Parking, and The District Detroit, the region’s emerging epicenter of entertainment in the heart of the city. Ilitch Sports + Entertainment operates the award-winning Little Caesars Arena, Comerica Park, and the iconic Fox Theatre, all within a four-block radius in The District Detroit. It also maintains a joint venture interest in 313 Presents and provides facility management services for Pine Knob Music Theatre, Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre at Freedom Hill, and the Meadowbrook Amphitheatre. 

About Comerica Bank

Comerica Bank, a subsidiary of Comerica Incorporated, has served Michigan longer than any other bank with a continuous presence dating back over 172 years to its Detroit founding in 1849. It is the largest bank employer in metro Detroit and over 4,500 employees (FTE) statewide. With one of the largest banking center networks in Michigan, Comerica nurtures lifelong relationships with unwavering integrity and financial prudence. Comerica positively impacts the lives of Michigan residents by helping customers be successful, providing financial support that assists hundreds of charitable organizations, and actively participating in Detroit’s downtown revitalization. Comerica Incorporated (NYSE: CMA) is a financial services company strategically aligned by three business segments: The Commercial Bank, The Retail Bank, and Wealth Management. Follow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Comerica, Twitter: @ComericaBank and Instagram: @comerica_bank.