Del Val’s art programs have qualified for the New Jersey Teen Arts Festival, an event featuring writing, visual art and performing arts categories. The festival’s goal is to support and encourage creativity among students.

“Teen arts is a celebration of all different high schools and middle schools coming together for the fine and practical arts to show off their abilities,” freshman Kathryn Giles said.

Previously, Del Val competed in the Hunterdon County Teen Arts Festival, where it received positive feedback.

33 members of Del Val’s performing arts program qualified with their winter musical, “Big Fish,” which follows the story of a dying man recounting his eventful past. Two students qualified for the dance portion of the festival and six members of Del Val’s jazz band qualified as well.

In the English category, two student poetry writers and four creative writers were selected to be featured in the festival.

Also, four artists qualified with their 3D work, and one artist’s 2D work qualified.

“I think that we have the potential to meet the criteria of the State Teen Arts if we work hard enough,” Giles said.

This year, students involved in Del Val theatre also performed at the Bucks County Playhouse and the Student Theater Festival. Additionally, Del Val students who participated in vocal programs competed at the New York International Competition and the Roxbury Invitational.

If you want to support these students, the event will take place June 2-4 at Middlesex College.