Young performers prepare for ‘Legally Blonde the Musical JR.’ at Mahaffey Theatre
Barry Wong visits the Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts’ Summer Camp, where students had the unforgettable opportunity to be mentored by Tony-nominated Broadway star Laura Bell Bundy, best known for originating the role of Elle Woods in Legally Blonde.
Thanks to the Foundation, Laura spent time inspiring the campers and helping them hone their skills for the upcoming production of Legally Blonde Jr.
This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity not only enhanced the students’ performances but also demonstrated the Foundation’s deep commitment to nurturing young talent through access, mentorship, and the transformative power of the arts.
Don’t miss this heartwarming story and behind-the-scenes look at a magical moment in the making!
WTVT Fox 13 Charley Belcher visits Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts Summer Camp
Fox 13’s Charley Belcher visits the Mahaffey Theater and talks to Bill Edwards and other people involved in the upcoming production of Legally Blonde Jr. The Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts is proud to present Legally Blonde Jr., a fully staged, professional-quality musical production showcasing exceptional youth talent from across the region. Performances will take place on July 25 and 26 on the historic Mahaffey Theater stage in downtown St. Petersburg. “I’m continually impressed by the hard work these kids put in to earn their place on this stage,” said Bill Edwards, Founder & President of the Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts. “Many of them dedicate themselves to their craft throughout the year to be ready for this opportunity. This production features talented local youth delivering professional-caliber performances with skills and stagecraft on par with national-level productions.”
Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts Showcases Local Youth with National Talent in Legally Blonde Jr
The Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts is proud to present Legally Blonde Jr., a fully staged, professional-quality musical production showcasing exceptional youth talent from across the region. Performances will take place on July 25 and 26 on the historic Mahaffey Theater stage in downtown St. Petersburg.
“I’m continually impressed by the hard work these kids put in to earn their place on this stage,” said Bill Edwards, Founder & President of the Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts. “Many of them dedicate themselves to their craft throughout the year to be ready for this opportunity. This production features talented local youth delivering professional-caliber performances with skills and stagecraft on par with national-level productions.”
Applications Now Open for One of the Nation’s Top Outdoor Art Festivals
The Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts, ranked among the top juried art festivals in the U.S., is now accepting artist applications for its 56th annual event, set for February 28–March 1, 2026, in downtown Tampa.
Drawing over 30,000 art lovers each year to Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, the Festival is a high-profile opportunity for artists to showcase and sell their work to an engaged and diverse audience. Each year, a new set of four nationally recognized arts administrators and educators is empaneled to review artist applications and invite up to 235 to participate in the Festival. Selected artists will compete for a share of at least $92,000 in prize money, including the prestigious $15,000 Raymond James Best-in-Show Award.
Gasparilla Festival of the Arts Announces New Festival Co-Chairs and Welcomes Incoming Board Members
The Gasparilla Festival of the Arts (GFA) is proud to announce the appointment of its 2026 Festival Co-Chairs: Rebekah Lane, Alyvia Jansen, and Scott Olson. These three dedicated individuals will lead the all-volunteer team behind one of the nation’s top juried fine arts festivals, held annually in downtown Tampa. Each Co-chair brings a unique blend of passion, talent, and community spirit.