Arts in Black 2016’s talent show finalists.

TIFTON — The 31st annual Arts in Black Festival is gearing up for it’s April 28 opening.

The festival will begin with the talent show starting at 7 p.m. on April 28 at the Tift Theater.

The talent show is open to all K-12 and college students.

Felicia Howard “the Soulful Singer” will be performing during intermission as well as at the festival.

Students must return a completed and signed talent show participation form by April 19, which may be obtained at www.artsinblack.net.

Admission for adults is $8, $6 for students with a school id and anyone 5 years and under may enter for free.

The festival itself will kick off at 11 a.m. on April 29 in Fulwood Park.

There will be arts and crafts, food, a kids area health information and live entertainment.

V-Town Connection will begin the live entertainment on the Syd Blackmarr Stage at 11 a.m. Live 5 Band will perform from noon until 2 p.m., Carolyn Ellis School of Dance from 2-2:45 p.m., “Felicia Howard the Soulful Singer” from 2:50 to 3:30 p.m. and Southern Soul Band from 4-6 p.m.

The poetry competition will not be held this year.

According to Jadonna Jackson, who is heading up the Arts in Black committee, the organizers want “people from all walks of life enjoy the African American culture and see what its all about.

“We cater to at risk youth of all ages and we would love to see them come out and participate as well as enjoy the music, the artwork and the food.”

Jackson said they are hoping for a big turnout this year “anywhere from 300 to 500 would be awesome, so we invite everyone from surrounding counties and our locals to come out and celebrate with us.”