Young performers create holiday splendor in Ringling Museum courtyard

Third grader Gwyneth Crawford said she felt welcomed by the audience's applause, as her choir from Phillippi Shores Elementary performed in the courtyard of the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art on Dec. 5. 

She called the experience of Holiday Splendor at The Ringling "wonderful."

"I don't know what to say, because, honestly, it was pretty fun," she said. "It really just blew my mind that it was my first time here, and I did really well."

While showcasing student performances and offering families the chance for free photos with Santa, the event drove donations to Toys for Tots, a U.S. Marine Corps Reserve organization, who were present on site. 

Admission fees were not required for attendees bringing an unwrapped toy. 

Last year, the event brought in about $40,000 worth of toys, according to Marci Boland, director of events at The Ringling.

Students and organizations appreciated the chance for more community exposure. 

Gabriella Huff, a student at Onyx Studio 2 who is a senior at Booker High, said she enjoyed looking out at the venue, while also having another chance to perform.

"We had Nutcracker two weeks ago, and the day after, I was so sad, so it was really nice to be able to do the pieces again, and I got to be a different part than I was," she said.