Java Gala marks the end of AVPA’s 30th year

The Academy of Visual and Performing Arts (AVPA) is concluding its 30th year with the annual Java Gala celebration at the Wende Museum and Glorya Kaufman Community Center on Sunday, June 7, at 6 p.m. The evening will feature student performances throughout the venue, promising collaborations between the art programs' five departments: Visual Arts, Dance, Theatre, Music, and Film. In addition to showcasing students’ talent and hard work, Java Gala is a benefit that encourages attendees to bid on gift baskets and donate to the program to help fund their courses, instructors, and more.

Since 1996, AVPA has been the main creative arts outlet for students at Culver City High School, offering classes, after-school programs, and workshops to help them begin or improve their skills as artists. What started as a program supported by Sony Pictures Entertainment and initially funded by a “Specialized Secondary Programs” grant from the state of California has flourished into a thriving program supported by sponsorships and donations, with an established presence in the community.

Dr. Tony Spano, AVPA’s Executive Director and the Creative Director of the Music Department, noted the program’s growth since his arrival in 1998.

“Back then, the music program had a small marching band and choir…AVPA Music was mostly rock bands,” Spano told Culver Crescent. “Over the years, the entire program has grown and expanded in so many ways — with more students, performance opportunities, and creative projects.”

Students can take advantage of resources the AVPA now offers thanks to the relationship it has developed with the community. Classes for college credit through the program’s partnership with West LA College, Santa Monica College, and Otis College of Art and Design, and other opportunities come through with Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways in Theatre, Film, Dance, and Music Technology. The High School's proximity to Sony Pictures Entertainment not only gives CCHS a boost in funds but also in access to professionals and equipment. 

In addition to the classes and projects at school, AVPA students are often found at community events. The Art Walk and Roll often sees students from the Visual Arts Department helping out and displaying their work. Jazz combos and musicians attend events, providing music that elevates the atmosphere. Earlier in the year, Theatre students inspired by their work on the musical Hadestown volunteered at the Culver-Palms Burrito Project, sharing food with unhoused people. 

Another one of AVPA’s greatest assets is the collaboration across the five departments. Lee Margaret Hanson, the Creative Director of AVPA’s Theatre Department, shared she looks forward to Java Gala because of the interdepartmental collaborations.

“[Attendees] better check out the fashion show. That has been one where Film has helped out a lot with it, AVPA’s Live Events and Tech have helped out with it. [The Theatre Department] has performers helping out with that one as well.” 

The values and skills students have developed through the program, along with the many projects they can participate in throughout the school year, have led to amazing accomplishments.

“We've had so many students win awards, from many years of Congressional Art Competitions to recognition at music and theatre festivals, to scholarships and internships,” Spano recalled, “But what I'm most proud of is how so many students leave here having grown up in the program, having learned how to work with people, be creative, and problem solve.”

The influence of AVPA has extended beyond high school, with many alumni still carrying their lessons into their careers and beyond. 

“I love running into former students or parents around town, and so many go out of their way to thank us for providing such an amazing program to themselves or their children in high school,” Spano reflected. “It's a pivotal time of life, and I'm so happy and proud that we've been able to provide something unique and special.”

To learn more about AVPA, visit their website here.