Blog Posts by Westmont

Acclaimed authors Joseph Wambaugh, Elizabeth Berg, Clive Cussler, Fannie Flagg and Ray Bradbury are among the scheduled speakers for the 31st Santa Barbara Writers' Conference, June 20-27 at Westmont College.

More than 350 writers are expected at the conference, which features workshops, competitions, panel discussions and speakers. While most events are open only to registered conferees, the afternoon and evening presentations by the above speakers and others are open to the public. Admission is $7 for each event.

The Westmont Windancers and theatre arts students will present their newest pieces at a New Works Festival 8 p.m. April 24 and 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. April 26 in Porter Theatre. Tickets are $5 for students and seniors and $10 for general admission.

The Windancers will perform “Earthworks” directed by Associate Theatre Arts Professor Erlyne Whiteman, “I Own You” and “Dancin’ in the Dark” directed by senior Grace Chisholm, and “Gloria” directed by Whiteman with music by the Westmont Chamber Singers.

The annual Senior Art Show opens April 22 and runs through May 4 in Reynolds Gallery. The reception, which is free and open to the public, is 4-6 p.m. April 26.

Seven seniors, Tyler Elliot, Chris Johnson, Lori Leming, Josh Manley, Ariel Oleari, Shane Quinlan and Wells Stellberger, will display work from their portfolios representing a wide variety of artistic interest.

“This is an extremely talented group of artists,” Reynolds Gallery Director and Art Professor Tony Askew said. “We are excited for them to exhibit their work publicly for all to enjoy.”

Westmont music instructors William Nield Christensen and Celeste Tavera will perform a faculty recital 1:30 p.m. April 21 in Deane Chapel on Westmont’s lower campus. Admission is free and open to the public.

Christensen is finishing his doctorate in music at UCSB and has been a regular at music performances around Santa Barbara. He has performed with the Santa Barbara Grand Opera and performed at the opera nights at the Arts and Letters Café.

Lord Paul and Lady Leslie Ridley-Tree will receive the Westmont Medal during graduation ceremonies 10 a.m. May 3 on Russell Carr Field.

The Westmont Medal is given each year to recognize those in our community whose lives embody the very principles associated with the Christian character of the college: integrity, service, compassion, responsibility, faithfulness, discipline and generosity.

Westmont’s choral groups unite for their annual spring concert 8 p.m. April 19 at Trinity Episcopal Church. Admission is free, but a free-will donation will be requested.

The concert will open with an African processional, featuring all Westmont choristers.