Arts in Bartlett presents musicians, poets, artists in the Spring Showcase April 15

Arts in Bartlett, the nonprofit arts council, is having its first "gala" type fundraiser, the Spring Showcase, on Sunday, April 15, at 3 p.m. in Villa Olivia, 1401 W. Lake St., Bartlett. This afternoon of performances from the arts center's music faculty and their fellow professionals will entertain with classical and popular music. The musical lineup includes: Mindy Dupee, piano and voice; Dorothy Deen, cello; Wayne Richards, saxophone and flute; Tatiana Kotova, viola; Wes Lee K and David Hain; guitar. Poets Russ Devereaux and J. Horton (Jim) Palmer will also perform. An interactive artist, Michelle Thomas, will create a painting in just 10 minutes while Mindy Dupee performs on the piano. Other features include:

• Art stations of technique demonstrations from Kathryn Benton of Color My World Art Academy and Linda Kay, the arts center's resident adult art teacher

• Silent auction items ranging from Cubs tickets to a wine tasting for 12 to golf green fees, art and more.

• 2 drink tickets per adult and appetizers

These art and music teachers instruct more than 200 adult and children each week at Arts in Bartlett. Led by cellist Dorothy Deen and piano/voice teacher Mindy Dupee, the teachers have organized a full afternoon of entertainment. "We hope our members and friends-- and especially families who have students at Arts in Bartlett -- who appreciate the cultural arts opportunities we provide to the community will support this event. It is only through the donation of talents from the performers and artists and the sponsorship of Thrivent Financial that we are able to bring this exceptional event to our community," said Cecilia Green, executive director.

This is the first gala-type fundraiser held in the all-volunteer arts council now in our 16th year.

"Like most nonprofits, finances are a constant concern," Green said. "The build-out of our location at 215 S. Main four years ago depleted our reserves and we are slowly building back up, despite some unforeseen setbacks in repairs and reduced grants. It is hoped this event will carry us forward through the rest of 2018 with some extra income."

Tickets are $40 for adults, $20 for students 6 to 12 and free for those under 6. Tickets are for sale at 215 S. Main or online at the Ticket page of artsinbartlett.org, where you can view a list of auction donations so far. Businesses wanting to donate gift baskets and certificates should call 630 372 4152 to make arrangements.