Youth Artist Showcase: Celebrating Talent and Leadership
Written By: Kiana L
On November 3rd, Balboa Park came alive with creativity during the Youth Artist Showcase. I was honored to serve as the Master of Ceremonies and performed with my quartet, Killing Contemporary, which is part of the Mainly Mozart organization. The event also featured an amazing performance by the San Diego Civic Youth Ballet and displayed incredible artwork created by talented young artists.
Introduction
The Youth Artist Showcase was an unforgettable experience, bringing together youth performers and creators from all over the community to share their talents. Being chosen as the MC for the event was a privilege, as it gave me the chance to set the tone for the night and introduce each act. Performing with Killing Contemporary, my quartet, made the evening even more special.
Kiana was one of the MCs of the event, helping to announce each performance.
A Celebration of Talent
The variety of performances and displays was truly inspiring. The San Diego Civic Youth Ballet wowed the audience with their beautiful and graceful dances, showing the dedication and artistry that go into their craft. Around the venue, artwork by young creators was on display, each piece full of creativity and personal expression.
Music was another key highlight of the evening. Killing Contemporary performed a set that combined classical influences with contemporary interpretations, reflecting our commitment to innovation and collaboration in chamber music.
The Spirit of Community
What stood out the most about the Youth Artist Showcase was how it brought everyone together. Seeing so many different forms of art—music, dance, and visual art—side by side was a powerful reminder of how creativity connects people. As MC, I loved celebrating everyone’s work and watching the audience respond with so much enthusiasm and support.
The Youth Artist Showcase wasn’t just about performances or displays—it was about celebrating the creativity and potential of young people in our community. From the stunning ballet to the imaginative artwork and collaborative music, every moment of the evening highlighted how art can inspire and bring people closer together. I’m so grateful I got to be part of it and can’t wait to see what the next showcase will bring!
The Killing Conteporary Quartet Group: (left to right) Vicky - Violin, Maddy - Violin, Mia - Viola, Kiana - Cello
About the Author: Kiana L. joined the CESAP program in the Spring of 2024. She actively participates in the Science Communication, Leadership, and Research Cohorts. Kiana designed the STEAM Quests program as a project for her Leadership cohort. She is a passionate advocate for STEAM Education, especially for those with disabilities, as she is disabled. With a commitment to fostering creativity and new growth, Kiana is dedicated to finding new ways to make learning interactive and accessible for everyone. When not organizing events like the STEAM Picnic, Kiana enjoys teaching American Sign Language, coding, spending time with her dogs, and being a representative in the fields of STEAM.
