An Evening to Shine: Where The Future Shines Bright
Come celebrate the arts of Durham Public Schools. Proceeds benefit the Durham Promise Scholarship.
February 24, 2026 | 7 p.m. | Durham Performing Arts Center
350+ students. One night. One stage.
An unforgettable evening showcasing the arts and investing in brighter futures for Durham’s public school students.
Lifting Student Voices
An Evening to Shine gives students the unique opportunity to perform at DPAC and work with esteemed vocal clinicians and choreographers. This year, we will display the vocal, dance and visual arts talents of over 350 students throughout DPS.
Fueling College Dreams
DPS Foundation, in support of Durham Public Schools (DPS), provides scholarship assistance to high school seniors across DPS. Proceeds from An Evening to Shine help fund the Durham Promise Scholarship — opening pathways to college for DPS high school seniors.
Connecting Community
An Evening to Shine provides an uplifting, meaningful way for our local community to celebrate DPS students, educators, and families. This inspiring evening reminds us all of the extraordinary potential within Durham’s public schools.
45 Years in the Making
What began in 1982 as a small cabaret show in the cafeteria of Jordan High School has blossomed into one of Durham’s most beloved traditions. Originally called Evening of Entertainment, the event was launched by the Durham Public Schools Scholarship Foundation (DPSSF) as a fundraiser to help local students pursue their dreams after high school.
Over the years, the show’s stage — and its impact — have grown dramatically. What started with a few student performers is now a showcase featuring more than 300 talented students from schools across Durham Public Schools. When the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) opened in 2009, An Evening to Shine found its new home under the bright lights, bringing the community together for a spectacular celebration each year.
In 2021, DPSSF merged with the Durham Public Schools Foundation, who currently co-produces the event. The DPS Foundation is dedicated to nourishing an ecosystem of support for DPS students, families, staff, and educators. We work to ensure equity and success for every student, including reducing the financial barriers to post-secondary education. Proceeds from An Evening to Shine support the Durham Promise Scholarship, setting high school seniors from every DPS high school up for lifelong success.
“An Evening to Shine is a moment in the sun for our students — and an invitation for the entire community to bask in their warmth.
These extracurricular events are not add-ons. They are not side notes. They are what cultivate the next generation of creators, innovators, storytellers, engineers, teachers, and leaders. The arts give our children something deeper than applause. They give them a voice. They give them confidence. They give them the courage to stand in their own light.”