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Jeff Dorris

Deliberations from Dorris

Jeff Dorris is the Editor of the Delta Dunklin Democrat

Editorial

Celebrate the Arts

Saturday, September 7, 2019

This weekend, local artists and crafters will come from near and far to display their work and celebrate the arts at the annual Fall Into Arts festival in Kennett.

The event will run all weekend in downtown Kennett, around the Square and inside the Opera House.

The festival will spotlight local artists with booths featuring a variety of exhibits ranging from wood décor and original artwork to handcrafted jewelry and gourmet jams and jellies.

Along with these vendors will be an array of food booths featuring a selection of the region’s tastiest offerings.

Local musicians and entertainers will perform throughout the day on Saturday, culminating on Sunday with the Gospel and Grub Show featuring local church choirs and christian entertainers performing gospel favorites.

A highlight this year is the Magic of Oz Showcase featuring the music of the Wizard of Oz.

I had the pleasure of attending one of the rehearsals and I can assure you this show will not disappoint.

The cast is comprised of local talent and the kids portraying the munchkins are not to be missed.

Oz will premiere Friday night at 7:00 p.m. on the third floor of the Dunklin County Courthouse, with another performance on Saturday at 7:00 p.m. as well.

There is no admission, but donations will be accepted benefiting the SEMO Little Theater.

I thoroughly enjoy this event each year and encourage all to attend. There literally is something for everybody.

Bring the whole family for a time of fellowship and appreciation for our local artists, crafters, and entertainers.

The arts are so important, especially for our our youth.

A report by Americans for the Arts states that young people who participate regularly in the arts are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement, to participate in a math and science fair, or to win an award for writing an essay or poem than children who do not participate.

A study of Missouri public schools in 2010 found that greater arts education led to fewer disciplinary infractions and higher attendance, graduation rates, and test scores.

It’s important.

Come celebrate the Arts this weekend.

See you out there.

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