Media Contact:
305.377.1140
Nicolle Ugarriza, Director of Public Affairs x1201
nugarriza@youngarts.org
Kate McPherson, Manager of Communications x1203
kmcpherson@youngarts.org

Famed Dancer and Choreographer Desmond Richardson and Celebrated Actress and Director Liv Ullmann among the Distinguished Guests

MIAMI, FL (October, 2009) – Mark your calendar for one of the most anticipated events of the South Florida social season! The annual An Affair of the Arts Performance and Gala, in support of YoungArts, the core program of the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts (NFAA). The event brings together the nation’s finest young artists, the patrons who support them, and a cache of celebrities on Saturday, January 16, 2010 at 6:30p.m. at the Gusman Center for the Performing Arts and the Alfred I. Dupont Building. The theme of this year’s gala is Downtown Deco. SunTrust Bank is the Title Presenting Sponsor and chairing the event are prominent Miami arts philanthropists Mary and Howard Frank.

The evening includes performances at the Gusman Center by select YoungArts Alumni including famed dancer and choreographer Desmond Richardson. Richardson was a 1986 YoungArts winner in Modern Dance and a Presidential Scholar in the Arts. He is also one of the greatest dancers and choreographers of our time. A special tribute to Richardson, recipient of the YoungArts Alumni Award and distinguished Actress and Director Liv Ullmann, the recipient of this year’s prestigious Arison Award will be a highlight of the evening. YoungArts will also honor the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and its President and CEO Alberto Ibargüen for their distinguished leadership and unwavering commitment to supporting the arts.
Following the performance at the Gusman Center, guests will move to the Alfred I. Dupont Building for the gala portion of the evening. The party begins with a cocktail reception, wine and cruise silent auction, and a drawing featuring a dazzling variety of luxury items and experiences. During the reception, guests will be surrounded by vignettes with incredible performances by the 2010 YoungArts finalists. Immediately following is a seated dinner. Table prices range from $6,500 to $50,000, preferred seating is available for $1,000 and individual patron tickets are offered at $650.

For more information, please contact Megan Harmon at (305) 377-1140, extension 1302 or gala@youngarts.org. To learn more about the gala and the YoungArts program, please visit www.youngarts.org.