The Rocket

Issue date: 4/13/07 Section: Focus

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Many students on campus major in art of some kind. Whether they have studied creative writing, sculpture, dance or theatre, chances are they have been second-guessed by some of their family or friends.

Perhaps they have shifted uncomfortably on the other side of the table when their parents ask, "What are you going to do with that degree?"

Next week, students majoring in arts and humanities will have an opportunity to respond to that criticism through the sixth annual Kaleidoscope Arts Festival.

This year's event will feature the talent of artists both from around the world and at SRU.

The festival will kick off on April 18 and will run through Sunday, April 29.

Several of the participating individuals will be literary artists, poets and storytellers. While some will be students, many will be those who are well respected in their fields, Rachela Permenter, professor of English and Kaleidoscope Chairperson, said.

"We have artists from as far away as China, who will be displaying their work alongside our own students," Permenter said. "It's really exciting to have internationally renowned artists, like Huang Xiang, that can give this event diversity."

Xiang will be a featured poet and artist at one of this year's new events, Kaleidoscope on Main.

Xiang will be joined by writer Antonio Sacre and bestselling author R.L. Stine (see story on page A-1).

"Kaleidoscope on Main is something new to this event," Permenter said. "We have made arrangements with local shops to feature a particular artist or poet. This is the first time we have been able to organize the event with the town."

While the festival will be an event at which contemporary artists and poets can share their work, Kaleidoscope will also celebrate those who came before the contemporary age.

"We will be celebrating Shakespeare's 443rd birthday," Permenter said. "It is one of the few events patrons will have to pay to enjoy, but there will be some great food and music."

Music will also play an important role in the success of this event. Classical guitarist Marco Startor will be performing at Shakespeare's birthday dinner with guitarists James Ferla and John Marcinizyn.

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