Heritage Arts Center Association

Our productions showcase the many extremely talented youth from Pasco County and surrounding areas. The events are conducted in a professional atmosphere with judges from central Florida who are outstanding in their respective fields. Every year youngsters through grade 12 compete in the preliminaries, for the thrill of becoming a "finalist". There is an application fee to enter, and tickets are required to attend the final exciting productions. The final performances are attended by over 600 people from the area communities as the talented finalists shine for their friends, families and the audience, as well as another panel of qualified, professional judges.

We give out over $2000 in cash and trophies to reward the talent and efforts of students through high school. Singers, instrumental musicians, acrobats, novelty acts, bands, baton twirlers, dancers and other forms of entertainment are welcome to participate. There are several age categories for solos, and one or two general group categories, and a student may enter as a solo and with a group. Participants are judged primarily on talent, and also on stage presence and appropriate appearance. We give beautiful trophies for 1st , 2nd , and 3rd place, and honorable mention, in each category. Since we feel strongly that each finalist is indeed a winner, every single finalist act receives a trophy. We also give $1,400 in cash prizes each year. Every child who auditions and does not make the finals is sent a ribbon which allows them to attend the finals free of charge as our guest.

Of significant interest is a partial list of accomplishments that former "Spotlight on Talent" performers have achieved. Many have attended college on dance or music scholarships, including the Boston Conservatory of Music, and Indiana and Yale Universities. Spotlight alums have performed professionally with the Festival Ballet of Utah, with Sheila E, and the Florida Orchestra, one attended the Aspen Music Festival, and several were named Miss Pasco County among other pageant titles. Several rock musicians have made CDs and aspire to be the next Rolling Stones. One even recently had a guest role on the TV hit "Ugly Betty". Heritage Arts is proud of these young people and appreciates the positive and creative work that they can produce. Producer Barbara Friedman notes with excitement that the 27 year old competition has now come "full circle". Spotlight "alums" who were annual contestants are now in positions of responsibility such as judges, HACA Board members, backstage helpers, or teachers of this year's talented students.

This uplifting and exciting day of entertainment is one of the highlights of the year for our community, and many gifted young people eagerly wait each Spring for a chance to shine as a true star! It is indeed a rewarding event for all - sponsors, audience, producers, and performers!