While California’s $40 billion budget deficit has purged public schools statewide of various programs, “Keeping the Arts Alive!,” a benefit concert on Saturday, May 30, featuring live musical performances by Billy Idol, Venice, Dave Mason and Malibu High School students, will help fund and sustain arts programs in public schools within the Santa Monica- Malibu Unified School District.
Presented by community foundation For the Arts and by nonprofit Artists For The Arts Foundation, the concert will take place at 6:30 p.m. at Santa Monica High School’s Greek Amphitheater.
“Education is important to us all,” Idol said in a press release. “To create a well-rounded mind, all facets of subject should be available.
“In an attempt for the public schools to economize, funding for the Music and Art programs has been substantially reduced,” Idol continued. “It’s up to all of us to try and help. Hopefully through the AFTAF concert, we can make a difference. I’m looking forward to donating my time and talent for this just cause.”
Malibu student musicians will also perform with Idol, Mason and Venice.
“When professional musicians share the stage with students, the evening transforms into an ideal showcase for the caliber of arts programs we strive to bring to our students,” Linda Gross, executive director of the Santa Monica-Malibu Education Foundation, said in a press release.
Marty Carrillo, Artists for the Arts Foundation president, said the concert, despite the state’s financial crisis and cutbacks, “gives the community an opportunity to support a positive and resounding voice for the future of our children.”
Tickets, ranging from $35-$500, and more information can be obtained online at www.smmef.org.