The University of Olivet will host a Creative Arts and Entertainment Expo designed for high school students on Friday, Feb. 11. The free, full-day event will include interactive breakout sessions, opportunities to showcase art, music, performance or vocal talents and information on The University of Olivet, culminating in a live performance. The event is open to all high school students in ninth to 12th grade. Teachers, counselors and parents are also invited to the event. Registration is available at https://apply.olivetcollege.edu/register/CAEE.
“I think Gen-Z is one of the most creative and thoughtful generations this world has ever seen,” said The University of Olivet Gospel Choir Director La’Rae Trice, organizer of the event. “The Creative Arts and Entertainment Expo is a stepping stone to helping them see how their passions can be turned into a successful career. The University of Olivet offers many programs in the Arts and Humanities that can lead to jobs in the arts or entertainment industry, and our ensembles are also open to students who want to pursue their passion as a hobby in college. Performance and Participatory Scholarships are offered in many of these areas, and the Creative Arts and Entertainment Expo will help students explore all of these different opportunities and avenues at The University of Olivet.”
Students will begin the event with three interactive breakout sessions. Choices include:
- Making Video: The Art of Film with The University of Olivet Assistant Professor of Media Production and Communication Daine Pavloski — Students will go behind the scenes to learn how to start shooting their own movies and visual works of art.
- Visual Arts Printmaking Session with The University of Olivet Visual Art Talent Program Director Don VanAuken — Students will explore the Riethmiller Blackman Art Building printmaking studio with a hands-on activity featuring the printmaking process.
- Audio Engineering: Make it Sound Good with professional Gospel musician Greg DeMyers of “Gregory D and Company”— Students will learn the basics of professional recording for any style and genre.
- Acting Techniques: Stay in Character with The University of Olivet Professor of Theater Arthur E. Williams — Students will learn that improvisation isn’t just for the dramatic, this art can help you on the stage, in front of your classroom and in the boardroom.
- Songwriting: Say it with Your Chest! with singer/songwriter Mark Parker and The University of Olivet Director of Choral Activities Joel Moore— Students will learn the songwriting process from veteran musicians, including how to approach a new song and what to do if you get writer’s block.
- Streaming & Radio: Why Charting Matters with Cathy Carroll, an entertainment industry professional with 28 years of experience — Students will learn about leveraging relationships with stations and DJs to maximize your exposure and royalties, as well as the best gigs for young producers, engineers and DJs for students interested in the radio industry.
The afternoon portion of the event will include lunch and dinner where, students can network with professors and industry professionals, a campus tour and opportunities to learn more about The University of Olivet. Students will also select a “Let’s Create” session where they will have the chance to use their talents and newly-acquired skills to engage and interact in a real-world rehearsal setting. Available options will include the visual arts, an instrumental jam session, a music and theater performance opportunity, or a live radio show. Finally, students will give a live showcase to guests and campus community members developed during their final session.
Senior-level students who attend the event will be considered for Performance and Participatory Scholarships based on their talents throughout the day. For more information about the Creative Arts and Entertainment Expo, contact Trice at ltrice@uolivet.edu.