The school year is coming to a close at the Lehigh Valley Charter HS for the Arts. Instead of winding down, however, it seems that this school year will go out with a bang. The school calendar has been overflowing with some of the largest events of the entire year.

One such event was the Senior Vocal Showcase. This was the final performance for the 12th grade vocal class. It featured a variety of genres – from Broadway to opera.

Senior vocal major Erin Williamson recalls the experience.

"It was kind of like pulling teeth, but with a rewarding outcome. We all pulled together in the end and realized how much we cared."

Similarly, the Senior Instrumental Recital was held May 15 and featured the culminating pieces of the 12th grade classical instrumentalists. Jazz musicians unveiled their final pieces at the Jazz Café May 16.

Also on the same date was the Artists Café, one of two major art exhibits of the year for the visual art majors and displayed work from all of the grades. This year, students decorated based on a 20s theme.

Eleventh grade visual art major Emily Swavely shared some of her thoughts about the process.

"The Artist's Café is not only the largest show, but it also allows students to explore other vital areas connected to art," she said. "Students learn how to curate a wall and also how to mat and hang our own artworks."

Furthermore, the annual Dance Quilt occurred at the Morris R. Williams Center for the Arts at Lafayette College May 16 and 17. It is a formal concert of works choreographed by teachers and guests and performed entirely by dance students. The show gathered a large audience and rave reviews from those who attended.

Also, the New Play Festival May 19 was an energetic performance featuring four plays written, directed, and performed entirely by junior and senior theatre majors.

The Spring Concert Series May 20 and 21 featured the final performances of the school year for choirs, orchestras and bands.

"Putting together the spring concert series is always more chaotic than the winter series, but in the end, everyone works together and can create a great performance," said junior instrumental major Beth King.

Graduation June 16 will be held at Lehigh University's Packer Memorial Church.

Charter Arts continues to be busy all summer long. Summer workshops will be held for students ages 9-18, and there will be a few adult workshops as well. These classes include Theatre Camp, Broadway Music Camp, Big Band Camp, Jazz and Pop Vocal Performance Workshop, Drawing for Beginners, Painting for Beginners, Printmaking for Beginners, Dance (Modern, Ballet, and Jazz), Comedy Improvisation Workshop, Shakespeare Intensive, Teen Theatre Intensive, and more. These opportunities are also open to children who do not attend Charter Arts. For more information call 610-868-2971 ext 184.