Thousands flock
to sample Central Florida’s arts and sciences, and even a bit of history, at the first Arts for All Day in Orlando.
Someone had to be the first to dance and Molly Piveral didn’t mind being that someone.
“I think people live in a place of fear and so, sometimes, if you’re just the first one, it brings others into it,” said Piveral, the brave soul who was the first to jump on stage and learn Bollywood dance moves Saturday.
Piveral’s impromptu dance lesson was part of a session by the Asian Cultural Association of Central Florida at the firstever Arts for All Day.
The free event was organized by the United Arts of Central Florida, which provides financial support for more than 50 local arts, science and history organizations through grant programs.
More than 60 local artists and organizations were represented at Loch Haven Cultural Park, providing information about what they do, offering hands-on classes and performing for the throng of people. The park’s permanent residents, including the Menello Museum of American Art, Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando Science Center, Orlando Shakespeare Theater, Orlando Fire Museum and the Orlando Repertory Theatre, offered free or reduced admission.
Piveral said she had a few performances or organizations she specifically planned to see Saturday, but was open to whatever art she was near in the moment — painting, art exhibits, ballet or orchestral performances.
“The door’s open, so you go in and you take in the experience,” she said.
Flora Maria Garcia, United Arts’ president and chief executive officer, said 5,000 people had registered for Saturday’s event online, prompting organizers to close registration.
Garcia said registration was