Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts Welcomes New President, Elizabeth Gelman
Bill Edwards, Founder and CEO of Big3 Entertainment and the Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts, today announced the appointment of Elizabeth Gelman as the new President of the Foundation. Gelman, an accomplished nonprofit executive and arts leader, brings decades of experience in museums, cultural programming, education, and community engagement.
“Beth is an extraordinary leader whose vision and commitment to the arts align perfectly with the mission of our Foundation,” said Bill Edwards. “Her track record of elevating institutions, expanding access, and fostering inclusive cultural experiences will strengthen our work and ensure that Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts – benefiting the Mahaffey Theater continues to enhance youth education throughout the Tampa Bay area.”
Gelman most recently served as Senior Director of Arts & Cultural Programming at Creative Pinellas, where she led a strategic vision for the county’s premier gallery, quadrupled attendance, and set historic records for artist sales. She produced over a dozen exhibitions annually, launched new revenue streams, and forged dynamic community partnerships that deepened the gallery’s impact.
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.