Stars shine at festival

Friday night’s Festival of the Performing Arts, “Stars In Our Eyes, 2009,” sponsored by the Rotary Club of La Jolla, brought together talented students from La Jolla’s four high Schools: The Bishop’s School, La Jolla High School, La Jolla Country Day School and The Preuss School.

A highlight of the evening was the stunning performance of violinist, Elli Choi, a 7-year-old first grade student at La Jolla Country Day School, accompanied by her mother, Dr. Youngeun Choi. Elli played “Introduction and Tarantella Op.43” by Pablo de Sarasate, receiving a standing ovation from the audience.

Performances included: The Bishop’s School jazz ensemble, two vocalists and a scene from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream;” a Persian Culture Dance, vocalist and guitar player, tap dance, comedy, pianist, and instrumental performances from La Jolla High School; La Jolla Country Day School’s “The Winter’s Tale,” a string ensemble, a vocalist performing “Think of Me” from “Phantom of The Opera,” individual and group vocalists, and a classical trio (violin, piano, and cello) from La Jolla Country Day School; a vocalist from The Preuss School, singing a song from “Aida,” as well as break-dance and hip-hop performances and a Disney medley involving 48 performers.

The program also included an exhibit hall of student artwork - paintings utilizing various mediums, pottery, sculptures and a wide-ranging display of highly creative art objects.