FMU's Arts International to return to campus, showcase worldwide performers

FMU’s Arts International to return to campus, showcase worldwide performers

Francis Marion University’s Arts International Festival, the region’s long running annual celebration of arts and culture, returns to the University’s campus on Saturday, April 14.

After a three year stint in downtown Florence, Francis Marion’s campus will host a day filled with international entertainers, food and cultural experiences from noon until 6 p.m., rain or shine.

There is no admission charge and all entertainment is free and open to the public. There is a charge for food, beverages and craft items that are sold within the festival.

This year’s lineup includes a variety of artists from a diverse set of cultures and influences, including cirque-style ImaginAerial, magician Anthony Salazar, Celtic folk rockers SYR, beach music and Motown virtuosos That NATION Band, Recollection Band, the South Carolina Dance Theatre and School of Dance Arts.

International from fare from Japan, Brazil, the Philippines, India, Germany and Italy, as well as Cajun and Hawaiian inspired dishes will be available.

Local craft vendors will also take part in the festivities as the Artisan Fair returns, featuring crafts available for purchase as well as demonstrations of the process to produce their items.
For the younger attendees, there will be a Kids’ Zone with magicians, face painting, balloon sculptors and a picnic area.

Francis Marion will also be holding its inaugural Cardboard Regatta at the Durant Pond behind the Lee Nursing Building with a parade of “boats” at 1:30 p.m. and the race at 2.

The Florence Darlington Technical College Welding Sculpture Competition will take place in conjunction with the festival, allowing attendees to watch as the welders compete to craft their sculptures throughout the day. The sculptures will be auctioned off at 4 p.m.

Arts International is sponsored by the City of Florence, Honda of South Carolina Manufacturing, Inc., Nan Ya, The News Journal, Florence County, Pepsi of Florence and Crown Beverages.

For additional information on this event, visit FMU’s Arts International webpage.