By STEPHANIE BRUMFIELD / Staff Writer

MONTEVALLO – To raise awareness and funds for its educational programs and workshops, the Montevallo Arts Council is hosting a “date night” fundraiser this Friday, Sept. 13, which will include a silent auction, musical entertainment, hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Tickets are $15 for singles or $25 per couple and are available at Falcon Art Supply, Blue Phrog Gallery and at the door.

The silent auction and reception will begin at 6 p.m. in the Parnell Memorial Library gallery, with Chuck King and Friends performing at 7:30 p.m. in the theater. Despite being held on Friday the 13th, many in attendance will end the night lucky, as the winners of the silent auction will be announced at the end of the night.

Steve Gilbert, a member of the board of directors of the Montevallo Arts Council, said this is the first fundraiser of its kind that he’s seen in the two years he’s been with the arts council.

“We were looking for something to try to get folks out and into the community and make them aware of what the arts council is doing other than our annual arts festival,” Gilbert said. “Everyone knows that we do the show in Orr Park every year, but we wanted the community to become more aware of the other things we are doing, in particular our educational programs and our workshops.”

The name of the event, Date Night with the Arts, comes from the fact that people are encouraged to bring their significant others and enjoy what Gilbert calls a “fun night out.” The library has recently been re-landscaped, and the hors d’oeuvres and cash bar will be set up on the patio, he said.

The silent auction will include pieces from local artists, gift certificates, gift baskets and other merchandise from local business, Gilbert said.

Although there is no set ending time for the event, Gilbert said the music would probably wrap up around 9 or 9:30 p.m., and auction winners would be compiled during the show. Items will be available for pick-up after the performance. For more information about upcoming events, visiting the Montevallo Arts Council Facebook page.