Go Red for a Cultural HEARTS Affair!

 Newport News, VA - The Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center announces the First Lady of Song's Red Dress Gala, Saturday, February 27, 6:00pm, in honor of American Heart Month (February).  This black-tie affair, welcomes guests for an evening of culture and entertainment while contributing to the fight against heart disease, which affected Newport News icons Ella Fitzgerald and Pearl Bailey.

Guests will arrive to the melodic sounds of the Heritage High School Legacy Ensemble while enjoying a delectable selection of heart healthy hors d'oeuvres in the Grand Banquet Room.  The Bel Canto Singers of the Peninsula Children's Chorus will bring to life the extraordinary musical legacy of Judy Garland in the Anderson Johnson Gallery which will be adorned with a selection from the largest private collection of Judy Garland gowns from the "Judy Garland:  Dressing of a Legend Exhibit".  Sharing the same space is the Women of a New Tribe Photography exhibit, by Jerry Taliaferro which highlights some of the Peninsula's most elite and influential African American women in a glamorous photography collection reminiscent of the high glamour photography of 1930's and 40's Hollywood.

As an added bonus, guests will have the unique opportunity to celebrate Newport News' finest youth artists in the Newport News Community gallery featuring young artists from all 44 of Newport News Public Schools.

The evening will culminate in the First Lady of Song's Theater with a musical celebration by Grammy Award Winning Artist, Ann Nesby and the internationally known Boys and Girls Choir of Harlem Alumni Ensemble under the direction of Terrance Wright . Hosted by three-time Emmy award winning journalist and WVEC TV 13 News anchor, Janet Roach!

Special Ticket Prices Still Available. To purchase tickets, call the Box Office at 757-247-8969 .