Performing Arts Center Foundation looking to fulfill ‘Performing Arts Wish’
Francisco “Kiko” Chicas Aleman receiving his Yamaha Custom Z Alto Saxophone.
–The Foundation for the Performing Arts Center is looking to fulfill the “Performing Arts Wish” of a well-deserving local student or young person.
This new project aims to support one local young person—including K-12 and college students—who need help as they pursue the performing arts. Whether they are interested in dance but cannot afford ballet lessons, or they are passionate about music but lack an instrument, the foundation seeks to remove whatever obstacles are keeping them from pursuing their dream.
“This idea really began last year with one student and one dream,” said Leann Standish, Executive Director of the Foundation. “Kiko’s story inspired us to find new ways to support our youngest artists. With this year’s Grant A Performing Arts Wish, we want to show that passion for the arts—for music—is never misplaced and always worthwhile.”
Francisco “Kiko” Chicas Aleman began sharing his story with Coast 104.5 when he was 9 years old. Last year, the listeners of Up&Adam and the Foundation for the Performing Arts Center partnered together to purchase Kiko a brand new Yamaha Custom Z Alto Saxophone to replace his school-issued saxophone that he had returned upon graduating High School.
Adam Montiel of Up&Adam in the Morning presented the saxophone on air a week before Kiko graduated from Santa Maria High School.
“I can’t even describe what this feels like. It means that I can continue with music after I graduate high school,” said Kiko. “It’s an incredible honor to know that so many people care about me and my future.”
The foundation is now accepting submissions to nominate a student for his or her performing arts wish. If you know a deserving dancer, musician, singer, or actor in need, please submit a 1-page letter explaining who this student is, where they come from in SLO or Santa Barbara County, what the foundation can do to help them, and why he or she deserves the award.
The winning applicant will be announced on Sept. 22, at the Sidecar Loading Dock Party—the Foundation’s annual fundraiser held in support of the School Matinee Program, which brought 10,000 students to free performances at the PAC last season.
All nominations for Grant a Performing Arts Wish must be submitted by Sept. 7, 2018. Email letters to [email protected].
About the Foundation for the Performing Arts Center
Established in 1986, the foundation provides and promotes an extraordinary and accessible center for the performing arts that elevates the arts in our community, in collaboration with partners, California Polytechnic State University and the City of San Luis Obispo.
