Works by students will be highlighted at the Music Center’s Very Special Arts Festival. (photo courtesy of the Music Center)

The Music Center’s 43rd annual Very Special Arts Festival returns to an in-person celebration on April 29-30, opening to the public for the first time.

The festival continues the performing arts center’s long tradition of providing opportunities for young people of all abilities to express creativity. The festival welcomes school groups only on Friday, April 29, from 9:30 a.m.–1 p.m.; and opens to the public on Saturday, April 30, from 9:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Both days will feature performances, art and dance workshops, magic shows and an art exhibition of student works inspired by the festival theme, “the Arts Heal L.A.”

The program will include an ASL interpreter and will be transcribed for people with visual impairment. The free event, which is the only student festival of its kind in Los Angeles County, celebrates artistic achievements and encourages active participation in the arts and connection with one another as a community.

“The Music Center’s Very Special Arts Festival has been a beloved and inclusive event for the past 43 years, but it is particularly meaningful this year as we are finally able return to an in-person celebration, and, for the first time, invite the public to experience the inspiring creative talents of children of all abilities,” said Rachel S. Moore, president and CEO of the Music Center. “This year’s theme could not be more fitting as we come together to celebrate the transformative and healing power of the arts for all.”

“Our partner schools look forward to the Very Special Arts Festival each year, and we’re very excited to return to an in-person event where young people and people of all ages and abilities can once again experience the communal and uplifting experience of participating in the arts and engaging in opportunities to express themselves creatively, which is vital to everyone’s overall well-being.” added Keith Wyffels, associate vice president of education for TMC Arts.

The programs will be hosted by Suzanna Guzman and David Prather. The Music Center is located at 135 N. Grand Ave. For information and to RSVP, visit musiccenter.org.