JOSEPH — Young artists and performers of all types are urged to get ready to take part in the Youth Arts Festival this year from April 12-21 at the Josephy Center for Arts and Culture.

The center is at 403 Main St. in Joseph.

Art entries can be dropped off April 8 between 2 and 4 p.m. at the center.

New this year is an open mic for youth performances.

An opening reception will be April 12 from noon to 4 p.m.

The festival can be expected to be bursting with creativity and fun, featuring a dazzling display of artwork by youths, awards and ribbons galore and hands-on activities to spark the imagination.

The open mic performances will be April 12 from 1-3 p.m. Performers are invited to step up to the mic and share their talent with an enthusiastic and supportive audience. Performers can be solo or with friends — whatever makes the creativity soar. It can be music, the spoken word, comedy, dance or whatever.

Spectators are welcome, so bring your family and friends to cheer you on.
Sign-up will be at noon on a first-come, first-served basis at the Josephy Center on April 12. Spots are limited, so performers should be sure to sign up early.

The community is encouraged to attend. 

The festival began in 1989, thanks to local photographer Doris Woempner, and has been carried forward by passionate arts advocates like Joan Madsen, Leah Johnson, Will Roundy and, most recently, Maria Weer.

The center also is looking for volunteers for this event. Help will be needed with sorting and hanging all of the artwork April 9 and 10. 

Last year there were more than 200 entries. Email Dionne Vali at programs@josephy.org if you’d like to help.