BY KALISHA MENDONSA
Lacombe Express
This Saturday students from Burman University will gather to share a wide variety of artistic talents through the school’s Artists Coming Together (ACT) program.
On Nov. 26th at 7 p.m., community members are invited to Social Eyes on College Avenue to witness musicians, writers, painters, dancers and more share their gifts in the performance space.
Admissions are free and all ages are welcome. Space is limited.
“ACT is a safe place where people can come and share their talents, whatever it is. When we are there, we tell our audience that it’s not a performance but that we are simply sharing the talents of our community. People don’t have to be scared or intimidated - it’s simply a place to present who our artists are,” said Program Manager and Burman University student Jessica Francis.
“We have a lot of hidden talents on campus and this is where those people can shine. ACT inspires people to come out of their shell and not be afraid to express their talents.”
Francis said there have been a wide variety of exciting presentations, including live painting, musicians, dancers and even actors.
The group was founded by a former Burman University student who saw a need for a space to showcase the talents of students. His vision was to be all-inclusive in the arts and allow people the platform to explore and participate in a variety of artistic feats.
“We’ve had live artists before who come and begin their work at the beginning of the session. For example, a friend of mine who I knew painted came in one session and began a piece and by the end of the session had produced a masterpiece. Many of her friends knew she painted but we had no idea what she could really do,” Francis said.
“We had one man who actually wrote a trailer to a movie, and we had all the lights off and only the sound of his voice. It was amazing. He mimicked different voices and sound effects and music in the background - it just blew us away.”
Francis said there is a wealth of talent with the Burman University school body and ACT allows the community to get to know the students and their passions.
“It’s like you’re meeting a new person sometimes when you get to experience someone’s gifts for the first time,” she said.
“When you walk into the room, it’s got the feel of a jazz café. We have a band in the background playing social music, candles and art everywhere. I advise painters to come and bring their art, set up and start working. It’s amazing to have a space to showcase the talents we have here at Burman. It’s just wonderful and a wonderful feeling.”
The events are hosted twice a year around exams to give students a break and allow for some free expression and stress relief. The next event is planned for late February or March.
kmendonsa@lacombeexpress.com