Auroraadvocate.com - New art, music theme for 14th annual First Night Akron

Special to Record Publishing Co. The theme of First Night Akron 2010 is "A Night of Firsts." This year’s button artist, who was chosen by a committee of previous button artists, is Julienne Hogarth, an art teacher with Akron Public Schools.

First Night Akron 2010 is celebrating "A Night of Firsts."

Every artist participating in the 14th annual event will premiere something new. Artist premieres range from new songs, performances and dances to new interactive projects and works of art.

Now in its 14th year, First Night Akron is a family-friendly, alcohol-free celebration of the arts on Dec. 31 from 5 p.m. to midnight. Guests can enjoy indoor entertainment throughout downtown Akron featuring music, dance, theater, visual and interactive arts.

Admission buttons are on sale at various locations throughout the community and online at www.firstnightakron.org.

Other changes

First Night looks a little bit different this year. The footprint is more compact and easier to navigate, but still features more than 90 artists and projects.

New to the First Night footprint is Greystone Hall, with musical entertainment. As an extra bonus, revelers can visit the new METRO Transit Center, celebrating its first birthday during First Night Akron 2010.

Also, the 9 p.m. Kids Fireworks and FirstMerit Fireworks at midnight have moved to Lock 3. Guests can come downtown to Lock 3 and countdown to 2010. Check www.firstnightakron.org for recommended viewing locations for the fireworks shows.

Button information

First Night Akron 2010 admission buttons are $10 and children under 10 are admitted free when accompanied by a button-wearing adult.

Buttons can be purchased at Acme Fresh Markets, participating FirstMerit Bank branches, Akron Art Museum, Akron Beacon Journal Customer Service Desk, Borders Books & Music at Chapel Hill, Carolyn's Cupboard in Wadsworth, The Library Shop on Main, Lock 3 and Stage Left Boutique at the Akron Civic Theatre. Buttons and First Night Akron logo items may also be purchased online at www.firstnightakron.org. Also visit First Night's website for a full schedule of First Night events, indoor venues, artist premieres, free parking locations and more.

Businesses offer discounts

For the first time, First Night admission buttons earn button holders discounts all over town through Jan. 31.

Members of the community are encouraged to wear a First Night button on their coat or carry it with them to take advantage of these offers.

Songwriting
workshop offered

Become a songwriter at First Night Akron this New Year's Eve.

The band Hey Mavis will host an interactive and creative songwriting workshop for children ages 8 and up as well as their parents. Workshops will take place from 5 to 5:45 p.m., 6 to 6:45 p.m. and 7 to 7:45 p.m.

Participants will craft their First Night Akron memories and experiences into a song that will premiere during the Akron Children's Hospital Kids Countdown Show at 8:30 p.m. on the stage at Lock 3. Children will have the opportunity to join Hey Mavis on stage to perform the song.

Sign up to participate in this interactive workshop with Hey Mavis by clicking on the Songwriting Workshop link at www.firstnightakron.org/hey-mavis.>