With spring almost in full bloom and the warmer weather arriving, many things around us are drawing to a close. Your favourite TV shows are wrapping up for the season, school teams are participating in track-and-field meets and other year-end activities, and theatre and subscription performance series’ across the region are finishing.

At the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts our program year is also coming to an end. This translates in the coming weeks to a variety of year-end celebrations of recitals, theatrical performances, and exhibitions all taking place.

At the Shadbolt Centre we mark the year-end of the program year by celebrating the accomplishments of the many students, children, youth and adults in their artistic pursuits. Performing or presenting to an audience is an important step in the artistic practice. While it can be a nerve wracking experience, also helps to build confidence, enables students to become more accepting of constructive criticism, and it can inspire others. Throughout the year, particularly in May and June, we take the time to create an environment where student accomplishments can be showcased. What results is the event known as Shadbolt Celebrates, a series of performances, presentations and displays in ceramics, dance, music, theatre and visual arts—a treat for all the senses. Events continue through June 18.

This time of year also marks the year-end of our theatre season. On June 1 and 2, six multi-talented, multi-disciplined artists will perform 15-minute pieces about the nature of secrets and what occurs when they can no longer be contained in Bustin’ Out All Over. Later in the month, DJ Leanne & Co will create the ultimate musical environment at Live at the ’Bolt. With a musical repertoire spanning lounge to house to retro to an expansive playlist of dance remixes, this event June 22 is sure to appeal to the music and dance lover in all of us.

• Geraldine Parent is the arts services manager at Shadbolt Centre for the Arts.