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STUDENTS FROM from all over the Island recently combined their efforts to host the third annual "Spring Into The Arts'' festival.

Designed to showcase student talent and encourage greater participation and appreciation for the arts, the week-long event consisted of a variety of performances by all Government schools, seven Government pre-schools, the private Bermuda High School for Girls and Mount Saint Agnes Academy.

Spring Into The Arts was held at a number of venues throughout the week of March 23 and was organised by the Ministry of Education and sponsored by Education Minister Jerome Dill and Mrs. Dill.

The Clearwater Family of Schools was first to take centre stage, followed by the Whitney Family, the Dellwood Family, the Spice Valley Family, and the Sandys Family.

The performances featured singing, dancing, martial arts demonstrations, musical selections, gymnastics displays, poetry readings, skits and choral speaking.

Members of the community including St. George's Town Crier Mark Basden and saw player Gary Bean as well as top Education Officers, school principals and gombey troupes made special appearances.

Spring Into The Arts chairperson and Education Officer Shangri-La Durham-Thompson described the event as "wonderful, outstanding''.

"There were large numbers in attendance every night and an overflow at just about every venue,'' she recalled.

Mrs. Durham-Thompson added that the festival had received "very positive feedback'' and was going to be even better next year.

"Our aim was to encourage the students to continue striving for excellence in all areas,'' she said. "We want them to remember that the arts are just as important as anything else.'' Mrs. Durham-Thompson thanked everyone who took part, especially the students and teachers for their hard work and commitment.

She added that all students will receive certificates of appreciation if they have not already.