SaratogaArtsFest set to launch the summer arts scene

Mark your calendars for June 13–15 for the second annual SaratogaArtsFest, a three-day, citywide celebration of music, dance, visual art, film, theatre, and literary art. The ArtsFest will feature more than 100 performances and exhibits at venues throughout Saratoga Springs. There will be activities for everyone, from the seasoned arts enthusiast to families with young children.

	The Brown-Bacchiocchi Duo performs Friday evening. Joel Brown is a senior artist in residence at Skidmore.

This year's headliners include jazz pianist Gerald Clayton; Martha Graham Dance Company; Boys and Girls Choir of Harlem Alumni Ensemble; poet and nonfiction writer Honor Moore; SITI Company theatre group; Equus Projects: Dancing with Horses; and Carnegie Hall's Ensemble ACJW.

"We are extraordinarily proud to solidify SaratogaArtsFest as the gateway for the arts season and to become a tradition for Saratoga Springs as we present the second annual event," said Marie Glotzbach, festival coordinator. "We are confident that the 2008 ArtsFest will not only dazzle those interested in the visual, literary and performing arts, but will further establish Saratoga Springs as a center for culture, arts, and entertainment."

As part of the expanded programming, the ArtsFest will present The Bobs, a quartet that combines a cappella, jazz, and humor; installation dancers Wire Monkey; theater troupe Shakespeare and Company; the Albany Symphony Chamber Orchestra; and Sara Gruen, author of the New York Times #1 bestseller Water for Elephants, chosen as the Saratoga Reads book of choice for 2008.

In addition, audiences will have the opportunity to experience the Saratoga area's own extraordinary arts organizations such as the Lake George Opera Company, Home Made Theater, and programs at the Saratoga County Arts Center.

Appealing to a younger audience, SaratogaArtsFest will offer an extensive lineup of activities for children, including an "art rally" scavenger hunt for kids, a teen "band bash," the Amazing Kids Circus, and an adventures in acting workshop, as well as performances by the Saratoga Children's Chorus and the Saratoga Springs Youth Orchestra and Jazz Ensemble.

Events and activities will take place at locations throughout Saratoga Springs, including theaters, museums, restaurants, and schools.

The ARTSPASS, the admission package for events, will also provide pass holders with discounts and perks at area shops and eateries throughout the year. The ARTSPASS Admission Package is available for $30 for adults; $25 for senior citizens; and $15 for students and military personnel. A Junior ARTSPASS for children 3 to 11 costs $5. Children under 3 are free.

The mission of SaratogaArtsFest is to strengthen the position of Saratoga Springs as a premier arts destination. The ArtsFest is committed to increasing appreciation for the arts and strengthening cultural tourism in the Saratoga region.

For more information and to purchase an ARTSPASS Admission Package, click here.  

Tags: arts fest