Collide Arts Festival @ Salt Lake School for Performing Arts 05.21

Students at Salt Lake School of Performing Arts Collide Arts Fest - On Saturday May 21, in the back of the Salt Lake School for Performing Arts (SPA), Collide Arts Fest was in full swing from 12–7 p.m.

Image: Chay Mosqueda

Local Events

On Saturday May 21, in the back of the Salt Lake School for Performing Arts (SPA), Collide Arts Fest was in full swing from 12–7 p.m. This family-friendly community event was put on by SPA, XMission, and SLUG Magazine to showcase Salt Lake City artists. A vast multitude of different events happened throughout the day as the school hosted concerts, dance recitals, films, photo galleries and art vendors of all different types, making it one of the most diverse small arts festivals in the valley.

The day kicked off with multiple events starting at the same time. Attendees could go to each event if they wanted to, due to SPA’s smaller campus size. It was refreshing to hop from one event to another without having to walk too far. The large green space in the back of the school hosted food trucks and artist vendors, as well as live music from various local bands, some composed fully of students or teachers.

The inside of the school had three different venues: a small stage for concerts, a dance stage and a theater stage. While the venues were not large, they allowed viewers to be very close to the artists, creating a personal vibe. All of the acts were carefully crafted and expertly performed, and each were full of emotion due to the close proximity. Collide showcased talented artists and performers who had mastered their chosen craft. Personally, I hope to see this event gain large popularity in Salt Lake City—it is one of the most enjoyable arts festivals the city has to offer. If you have the chance to go next year, let me be the first to recommend Collide Arts Festival.