First Night Newport, an annual celebration of the arts that aims to pump tourism and business activity into Aquidneck Island, drew an average of nearly 4,000 spectators on New Year’s Eve, the event’s organizers said last month.
In December 2007, in preparation for the New Year event, the statewide television, print and radio advertising produced approximately 101,422,484 impressions in the Rhode Island market place. Its impact drew an average of 3,850 spectators. The event’s success can be attributed to contributions from local businesses and major corporate sponsors, but also a team of dedicated volunteers.
During the year, First Night Newport sponsors a literacy program for 5th grade students in Newport’s elementary schools and an artist-in-residency program at Thompson Middle School. First Night also funds a collaborative arts program at the Boys and Girls Club with young photographers from the Newport Art Museum.
“We use this event, the arts and our art education programs, as tools to inspire values and build community,” said Charles Roberts, executive director of First Night Newport. •
