Special report
LEXINGTON — The deadline is approaching for Kentucky performing artists to submit an application to perform at The Kentucky Experience pavilion that will be part of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Sept. 25 – Oct. 10, 2010, at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington. The Games are held every four years and this will be the first occurrence in the United States.
Professional artists and community and school groups in all performing arts genres may submit applications until Dec. 15, 2009. A panel of professional performers and presenters who are knowledgeable about contemporary and traditional performing arts will review the applications.
Two categories of artists may apply: Kentucky professional artists including individuals, companies or groups in dance, theatre, music, storytelling or other disciplines, and community/school groups. Selection will be based on artistic excellence and performance experience.
To review the guidelines and instructions for the application process, log on to artscouncil.ky.gov/Resources/resources_FEI.htm or contact Tamara Coffey, individual artist program director for the Kentucky Arts Council at (888) 833-2787, ext. 479 or tamara.coffey@ky.gov. There is also a link to this information on www.TheKentuckyExperience.com. The Kentucky Arts Council will produce an online directory of the performers selected for the Kentucky Experience. The directory will include a biography, photo, performance description and booking information for each artist and the schedule of performances during the games. The directory will also help market Kentucky performing artists to presenters for other venues and events.
More than a half million ticket holders are expected to see eight equestrian events and visit more than 300 vendors and attractions on the grounds of the park during the 16 days of the games.
In addition to a performing venue, The Kentucky Experience Pavilion will be a marketplace and showcase for Kentucky’s rich culture, including arts and crafts, Kentucky Proud products and statewide tourist destinations.
The Cave Region will have a presence at The Kentucky Experience and will showcase communities and attractions in the counties of Allen, Barren, Butler, Hart, Edmonson, Logan Metcalfe, Monroe, Simpson and Warren. There are many talented individuals in these counties and area tourist commissions encourage artists in these counties to apply to be a part of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
The Kentucky Department of Travel is an agency within the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, which promotes the Commonwealth as a travel destination.
Tourism in Kentucky has an economic impact of $11 billion, employs more than 176,000 people and generates $1 billion in taxes.
