By Rachel Galvin
The 17th annual Festival of the Arts BOCA kicked off on Friday, March 3 with a performance of the Festival Orchestra Boca playing the soundtrack of the Disney movie “Fantastia,” which played on the large screen behind them.
Festival Executive Director Joanna Marie Kaye introduced the orchestra, conducted by Constantine Kitsopoulos, festival music director. Before the orchestra began, there was also a showing of a short film called “Bella,” directed by FAU student Alfonso Gibson, who was able to get up with the film’s composer and say a few words. This was his first film.
Earlier, there were fun activities for the whole family, including a WLRN Instrument Petting Zoo, interactive art wall and face painting. There was also popcorn and cotton candy available.
This is just the beginning of the fest, which runs through March 12. From lectures to musical performances, to ballet, there is something for everyone.
To see the whole schedule, visit www.festivalboca.org.
Orchestra plays 
Orchestra prepares 
Tuning instruments 
Conductor Constantine Kitsopoulos 
Large crowd at Mizner Park 
Filmmaker Alfonso Gibson 
Creating art 
Pop Art 
Fun for kids 
Having makeup done