Arts Congress 2020, the annual advocacy opportunity for arts and culture supporters, educators, business and arts leaders to explain the value of the arts to Arizona Legislators is Monday, Feb. 10 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the state capitol, 1700 W. Washington Street.

            The event also features workshops focusing on Advocacy 101, the Healing Power of the Arts and Creative Economies.  During the day, Valley Youth Theatre VYTeens will perform the national anthem on the floor of the Arizona House of representatives as well as on the grounds of the capitol.

Arts groups interested in performing should contact Sarah Cirelli at Arizona Citizens for the Arts at [email protected] arts or by calling (602) 253-6535.

There is no cost to participate but registration is required by visiting www.azcitizensforthearts.org.  Registration deadline is Monday, Monday, Feb. 3. .  Training materials and information will be provided.

Check-in begins at 8 a.m.  A no-host post-event gathering and debrief is planned from 3-4 p.m. at Az Wilderness Brewing Company, 201 E. Roosevelt St.

“We head into this year’s Arts Congress after getting the great news that Arizona Governor Doug Ducey has included a $2 million allocation for the Arizona Commission on the Arts,” said Arizona Citizens for the Arts Executive Director Joseph Benesh.  “It’s an opportunity to carry the important message to our legislators of the value and importance of arts and culture not just for the creative significance but because of the impact and contributions to the state’s economy.”

            Coffee for the event is being provided by Dutch Bros and food trucks, coordinated by Best In Show Management, will be on site serving their specialties. Food trucks committed to participating are White Mountain Food Company, Hibachibot and Nacho Wars Az.  Recycling and compost resources are being provided by Keep Phoenix Beautiful.

For more information, visit www.azcitizensforthearts.org.