Our Durham Public Schools students shine.
Come celebrate them!
February 11, 2025 | 7 pm | Durham Performing Arts Center
Featuring DPS Students in choir, dance, theater, fine arts and more!
An Evening to Shine
Join us for our annual scholarship fundraiser and celebration of the arts in Durham Public Schools.
Showcasing Our Students
Evening to Shine gives students the unique opportunity to perform at DPAC and work with esteemed vocal clinicians and choreographers to produce a musical gala that is a ‘must see’ event. This year, we will display the vocal, dance and visual arts talents of over 350 DPS students grades K-12.
Celebrating Our Schools
Student performers represent the 54 elementary, middle and high schools across Durham Public Schools. Educators across Durham are supporting our students to present a phenomenal community event for all to enjoy.
Providing Scholarships
DPS Foundation (DPSF), in support of Durham Public Schools (DPS), provides scholarship assistance to high school seniors across DPS. Scholarships are funded through the proceeds of An Evening to Shine. Click here to learn more.
History of the Event
Launched in 1982 by the Durham Public Schools Scholarship Foundation (DPSSF) as a major scholarship fundraiser, Evening to Shine (formerly known as Evening of Entertainment) has grown from its origins as a cabaret show in the cafeteria of Jordan High School to an event featuring over 300 performers representing schools across DPS. The performance moved from high school auditoriums to the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) when it opened in 2009.
Now in its 41st year, Evening to Shine is presented by the Durham Public Schools Foundation (DPSF), which merged with DPSSF in 2021. DPSF seeks to accelerate the transformation of Durham Public Schools for success and equity for every student, including alleviating the financial burden of post-secondary education. Proceeds from an Evening to Shine fund the Durham Promise Scholarships.
Evening to Shine continues to evolve as a showcase for DPS talent. Students showcase their vocal, dance, and visual arts talents as the community celebrates their successes. In recent years, student musicians have performed with the professional band and technical theater students have assisted in backstage operations.