North Texas Performing Arts has announced two award-winning artists to headline the upcoming third annual Stardust Awards: Malik Akil Kimani Victorian and Kitt Wakeley.
Victorian is a musical theatre performer and educator known for Broadway productions of Aladdin, Mean Girls and Holiday Inn.
“I’m thrilled to be a part of the 3rd Annual NTPA Stardust Awards and for the chance to celebrate the extraordinary talent and dedication in the performing arts across North Texas,” Victorian said. “I’m looking forward to a fantastic evening of recognition, entertainment, and, most importantly, making a meaningful impact on the future of our arts community.”
Wakeley is a composer, producer and artist who has been credited with selling out Carnegie Hall and with five #1 Billboard chart-toppers.
“I value any work that helps our youth and am impressed with the incredible work NTPA does to develop the character of youth,” Wakeley said. “I look forward to joining them for this very special occasion to recognize educators, volunteers and others that work to make the performing arts impactful for youth.”
The Stardust Awards, held on November 2 from 5 to 10 p.m. at the Plano Events Center, will feature awards presented to artists, arts educators, volunteers and other leaders in the arts community. Past award recipients include B.J. Cleveland, Héctor Guzmán, Graciela Katzer and Dallas Black Dance Theatre.
“We are so pleased to have these incredible performing artist professionals join this very special celebration to honor those in North Texas with a passion for the performing arts,” said NTPA Chief Executive Officer Darrell Rodenbaugh. “We look forward to honoring these artists at this year’s Stardust Awards for their passion for youth performing arts education and their work on behalf of the well-being of youth.”
This year’s Stardust Awards Honorary Chairpersons are the Honorable Mayor John Muns and his wife Joa with committee members including Fairview Mayor Henry Lessner, Frisco Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Tammy Meinershagen, Plano Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Julie Holmer, Plano City Council Member Rick Horne, Plano Chamber of Commerce Board Chairperson David Downs, attorney and Plano Athena Award recipient Chris Krupa Downs, Danelle Bender, Senior Vice President, Chief Treasury Officer, Dairy Farmers of America and others.
Proceeds from the event will fund scholarships for “underserved youth” and underwrite operations and critical projects for North Texas Performing Arts. Information about the event and tickets are available online.