AN EVENING OF MUSICAL MAGIC Fundraiser to Support Children's Arts Education at Mesa Arts Center, 2/2

Join Mesa Mayor Scott Smith and other community dignitaries at the Mesa Arts Center Foundation's premier fundraising gala supporting children's arts education programs at Mesa Arts Center.

An Evening of Musical Magic begins with a reception of hearty appetizers and beverages in the Mesa Arts Center theater lobby, followed by a concert featuring some of the area's most prominent leaders, backed by a swinging jazz band under the direction of Barb Catlin, and produced by theatrical impresario, Don. W. Haskell. Enjoy wonderful performances as well as amazing live auction and raffle items.

"What could be better than a fun night of musical adventure at the Mesa Arts Center with talented performers singing and dancing the night away?" Mayor Scott Smith said. "Arts education is vitally important for our children so come on out and enjoy jazz, bluegrass, comedy and more in support of a great cause."

This event is hosted by the Mesa Arts Center Foundation, the nonprofit support organization for the Mesa Arts Center. More than 15,000 youth annually participate in arts education programs of the MAC, including school outreach, classes and arts camps.

Dress is Cocktail Attire/ Black Tie optional. The event takes place at Mesa Arts Center, One East Main St., Mesa, AZ, on Saturday, Feb. 2. Reception 6 p.m. Concert 7:30 p.m. Cost: $150 per person (tax donation $125). Proceeds support youth arts education programs at Mesa Arts Center. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the Mesa Arts Center Box Office at 480-644-6500 or visit www.mesaartscenter.com.

The Mesa Arts Center, owned and operated by the City of Mesa, is a unique, architecturally stunning facility located in the heart of downtown Mesa. Arizona's largest arts center is home to four theaters, five art galleries, and 14 art studios. Guests, patrons, and students come to Mesa Arts Center to enjoy the finest live entertainment and performances, world-class visual art exhibitions, and outstanding arts education classes. The Mesa Arts Center mission is to inspire people through engaging arts experiences that are diverse, accessible, and relevant. Mesa Arts Center has received numerous awards and accolades including the "2010 Arts Organization of the Year," by the Arts & Business Council of Greater Phoenix; the "2011 Best Venue to See National Acts" Best of Phoenix New Times; "2012 Best Arts Center" Critic's Choice azcentral.com, and most recently "2012 Venue of Excellence" by the International Association of Venue Managers. The 2012-2013 Performing Live Series is sponsored by Arizona Commission on the Arts. For more information, visit mesaartscenter.com.