By Katie Bohannon, Special to The Messenger
In a vibrant illustration of its charge to cultivate the advancement of the arts community and its rich culture that saturates Etowah County, the Gadsden Arts Council is debuting a special, free event – Artoberfest – scheduled for Thursday, October 17 at 6 p.m. on Wall Street in Alabama City.
“The arts in Gadsden have been an underutilized resource for some time,” said Gadsden Mayor Craig Ford, who prompted the organization’s inception alongside likeminded partners dedicated to the betterment of the city. “We have a number of groups who are doing good work, and the creation of a Gadsden Arts Council is a way to continue to promote active participation and collaboration of the arts in our city.”
Families will have an opportunity to meander up and down Wall Street, absorbing the artistic medley on display.
An array of performances will showcase the talent nestled in this part of Northeast Alabama. Gadsden State Community College’s Show Band, Downtown Dance Conservatory and Theatre of Gadsden will be among the headliners.
The event will feature interactive children’s activities and food trucks.
While Artoberfest provides a fun, engaging evening for families, the experience simultaneously raises awareness and generates exposure for the differing organizations throughout the arts community, bringing people together in the process.
“This is the beginning of a new beacon,” said Gadsden Arts Council Board Member and local artist Kris Catoe. “We’ve yet to tap into the real richness of our city. Nurturing the arts in Gadsden will show that we are a community that’s expressive and evolving. The arts are the core of that growth, and Artoberfest is the perfect opportunity for the public to connect with some of the faces behind the performing art scene.”
Gadsden Cultural Arts Foundation, Inc. Executive Director and Arts Council advisor Tom Banks views Artoberfest as the first of many events aimed to unite the community through the arts.
“Gadsden is rich with arts opportunities,” said Banks. “The arts provide a spark of creativity and a sense of community. The arts inspire us all and provide limitless ways to unite us as we celebrate our diversity. Involving everyone in the arts, especially children, leads to happier and more compassionate citizens.”