Celebration of Local Arts and Community Mark the First Anniversary of Chihuly Garden and Glass

SEATTLE, May 13, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- To mark its first anniversary, Chihuly Garden and Glass has partnered with the local arts community to offer four days of performances and programming events celebrating the artists and organizations that create the cultural fiber of Seattle.

"For us, some of the most memorable moments of this year, in addition to seeing the smiles on our guest's faces, have been when we host events that showcase the creativity of our community," said Michelle Bufano, executive director, Chihuly Garden and Glass. "That is what this anniversary is about -- celebrating the city and artists that have supported and embraced us." 

From Saturday, May 18 through Tuesday, May 21, Chihuly Garden and Glass will present rotating performances of dance, comedy, theater, music and more. Activities will take place within exhibition spaces, including the Glasshouse and Theater with each day offering a specific focus:

• Sat, May 18: Seattle Center campus, featuring Vera Project, Seattle International Film Festival, Seattle Opera, Northwest Folklife and Pacific Northwest Ballet
• Sun, May 19: Family day, kicking off with painting with Dale Chihuly in the Glasshouse for kids aged 5-12 years old. Seattle Children's Theater and Seattle Children's Museum will also offer performances in the Theater and Chihuly Garden and Glass will host kids exhibition tours
• Mon, May 20: Seattle city arts, including classical vocalist Caitlyn Hamilton, MOHAI, Seattle Rock Orchestra, Arts Corps, KCTS9 and Coriolis Dance  
• Tue, May 21: Seattle city arts, with performances by Jet City Improv, Seattle Shakespeare Company, Book-It Repertory Theatre, Seattle Teen Music and Northwest Vocal Project

A few of the more than 46 artists featured in The Bookstore will also be showing their work and talking with guests. On the opposite end of the exhibition, Collections Cafe will host wine tastings on Saturday and Tuesday.

Programming is free with admission. Performances are subject to change. For the full list of participating organizations and activities offered each day please visit:  http://www.chihulygardenandglass.com/first-anniversary 

Opened May 21, 2012, Chihuly Garden and Glass, brings together all the elements of Chihuly's work, including Drawings, signature glass series, large architectural installations and personal collections in a long-term exhibition.

About Chihuly Garden and Glass
Chihuly Garden and Glass provides a look at the career of artist Dale Chihuly. Located at Seattle Center, the exhibition features an Exhibition Hall offering visitors a comprehensive look at Chihuly's significant series of work. Visitors will also enjoy the centerpiece Glasshouse - a dramatic structure housing a suspended 1,340-piece, 100-foot-long glass sculpture -- and the Garden, which is a backdrop for a number of monumental sculptures and other installations. Also housed in the Exhibition Hall is the Collections Cafe, featuring pieces from Chihuly's collections including carnival chalk ware, vintage accordions, vintage radios and cameras and The Bookstore, showcasing the works of local artisans and a variety of books and materials relating to Chihuly's artworks. For more information visit: www.chihulygardenandglass.com. 

SOURCE Chihuly Garden and Glass