WV Dept. of Education to Celebrate More Than 300 Students at Arts Alive

Charleston, W.Va. — The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) will welcome 339 students representing 35 counties to the West Virginia Culture Center on Friday, May 2, for the 2025 Arts Alive Showcase (Showcase). Student artwork will be displayed during the art exhibition at 6 p.m., followed by 22 live student performances at 7 p.m.

Now in its 19th year, this event celebrates student excellence and promotes creativity on a statewide stage. New to the Showcase this year is a medley from the film The Greatest Showman featuring 90 students from across the state following a processional by the Cabell Midland Marching Knights.

The exhibition features approximately 250 art pieces selected from state conferences, festivals and other exhibitions. These works, created by students in Grades PK-12, include drawings, sculptures, photographs, paintings, architecture and graphic designs. Live performances include concert and jazz bands, show choirs, solo and ensemble dances, vocal and instrumental solos, theater productions among others.

"Arts Alive is a highlight of the year for students, educators and the Department of Education. The creative mastery that our students display is inspiring and is a reflection of the excellence in our schools," said State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt. "This event not only builds confidence, but it also elevates each students’ craft on a statewide stage for their peers, teachers and families to enjoy."

Prior to the Showcase, the WVDE hosted a student poster design contest, with the winning design incorporated into the event poster. Lauryn Coffman, a junior at Huntington High School, submitted the winning design. Her work was chosen from among 154 submissions as the winner.

West Virginia Public Broadcasting will livestream student performances on its YouTube channel starting at 7 p.m.