Miami, FL – January 14, 2017 – The National YoungArts Foundation (YoungArts) hosted its annual fundraiser in Miami, the Backyard Ball performance and gala, to help support the artistic development of the nation’s most promising young artists. In addition to recognizing the talent of this year’s 691 YoungArts Winners, the event honored jazz pianist Jason Moran (1993 Winner in Jazz) with the Arison Alumni Award, and choreographer Jessica Lang as the Arison Award Honoree for their vital contributions and commitment to the arts. The Backyard Ball was presented for the third consecutive year by Italian luxury brand Max Mara, and was hosted by Dr. Kira and Mr. Neil Flanzraich. The joyous evening welcomed renowned artists and alumni alike, including painter Will Cotton; choreographer and dancer Bill T. Jones; Javon Jones (2016 Winner in Dance and Max Mara Young Visionary Award recipient); jewelry designer Paris Kain; musician Dr. Ronald C. McCurdy; writer Joan Morgan; artist and author Michele Oka Doner; artist José Parlá; choreographer and dancer Desmond Richardson (1986 Winner in Dance and U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts); actress Zuzanna Szadkowski (1997 Winner in Theater and U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts); photographer and filmmaker Bruce Weber; and singer-songwriter Chris Young (2003 Winner in Voice and U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts), to name a few.

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