The National Society of Arts and Letters (NSAL) of Florida’s Star Maker Gala dazzled attendees at the annual event held in the Waterstone Resort & Marina in Boca Raton.
The musical and celebratory occasion showcases the outstanding talent of local high school and college students who earned NSAL scholarships and competition triumphs this season.
During the event, an impressive fundraiser for the Boca-based organization, NSAL also presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to Joanna and Jeff Kaye, recognizing their significant contributions to the arts.
NSAL Board Member Judi Asselta chaired the event. Kim Champion and Bruce Spizler served as honorary chairs.
“Our Star Maker Awards provide an extraordinary platform for the incredible young artists NSAL supports,” said Kirsten Stephenson, NSAL Florida President. “Witnessing their performances is truly inspiring and deeply rewarding for our members and supporters who play a vital role in propelling these artists to the next level.”
Students from prestigious institutions including Dreyfoos High School for the Arts, Hollywood Ballet Academy, Lynn Conservatory, Florida Atlantic University, Frost School of Music, Boca Ballet and New World School of the Arts were honored for their exceptional skills. The varied program that included performances from opera and featuring instruments such as piano, violin and others, resonated deeply with the audience.
“Our students embody a wealth of talent across various disciplines,” emphasized board member Shari Upbin. “Our mission is crucial in ensuring these young artists can enrich our world with enduring beauty.”
The evening’s festivities also included special recognition of esteemed arts advocates Joanna and Jeff Kaye.
Joanna Marie Kaye, executive director of Festival of the Arts Boca, has dedicated her career to enriching South Florida’s cultural landscape. Her work in radio and as co-founder of JK Productions has cemented her legacy as a passionate arts champion.
Her husband, Jeff Kaye, an internationally acclaimed trumpeter and educator, has performed with renowned ensembles like the Florida Philharmonic and Santa Fe Opera. He is a founding member of The Symphonia Boca Raton and Artistic Director of Healing Sounds of Music, a non-profit organization that brings music to assisted living facilities. Jeff has also founded the Healing Arts Project, which takes music to healthcare settings.
“Joanna and Jeff Kaye exemplify the transformative power of the arts,” said Asselta. “Their heartfelt acceptance speech and impromptu performance were truly delightful and added to an already memorable night.”
The aim of NSAL is to discover talented young people at the beginning of their careers and provide scholarships and competitions in art, dance, drama, literature, music and musical theatre. It also works to advance their careers and support creative opportunities.
Excelling at the chapter level allows competitors to progress to national competitions. Among those who used NSAL Florida to reach higher goals were actress/dancer/writer Shirley MacLaine; opera singer Jessye Norman; Broadway and television star Megan Hilty; pianist Awadagin Pratt; prima ballerina Amanda McKerrow opera star Nadine Sierra.
A Massachusetts native who moved to Florida in 2000, he is a graduate of Northeastern University in Boston, with honors degrees in English and Journalism. In New England, he worked for the Attleboro (Mass.) Sun Chronicle and the Pawtucket (R.I.) Times, the latter for 28 years. After moving to Florida, he worked as a copy editor at the Palm Beach Daily News, and, in 2001, became a reporter and later, city editor, at the Boca
Raton News where he worked for eight years.
