Step into the Spotlight Soiree & Talent Competition - Denim, Diamonds & Dreams

Step Into the Spotlight Soiree & Talent Competition held on Thursday, March 19, 2026 at Jacques in Middletown, NJ at 6:00 p.m. is an elegant, high-energy soirée where exceptionally talented adults take center stage, competing for the prestigious Zzak G. Spotlight Award. Each performer donates their talent in support of our mission, captivating guests in a one-of-a-kind evening of artistry, storytelling, and purpose.

Performances are evaluated by a panel of celebrity judges, adding distinction, excitement, and national-caliber prestige to the evening. The competition culminates in the presentation of the Zzak G. Spotlight Award while raising critical funds to ensure students in need continue to receive access to high-quality performing arts education.

This is not merely entertainment. It is performance in service of impact. The arts shape leaders.

Honorees:

Community Kindness Award

Livoti's Old World Market

2025 Rockin' & Rollin' Cultivator of Creativity Award

Philip De Rita - Principal Owner| Chief Communications - Personalized Communication Design Services

About Applaud Our Kids Foundation

Applaud Our Kids Foundation removes financial barriers to performing arts education for children who otherwise would not have access. Through donor support, we fund tuition, lessons, and opportunities in music, vocal instruction, dance, theater, and —giving students not only skills, but confidence, discipline, and a lifelong sense of possibility.

We don’t just fund lessons. We invest in futures.

Why Partner with Applaud Our Kids Foundation

The Step into the Spotlight Soirée & Talent Competition is an exclusive evening celebrating excellence, ambition, and potential. Sponsorship offers discerning partners the opportunity to align their brand with youth empowerment, arts education, and refined philanthropy while enjoying meaningful visibility among an influential audience.

As a sponsor, you will:

• Be visibly associated with transforming children’s lives
• Gain elegant brand exposure to community leaders, arts patrons, and decision-makers
• Demonstrate leadership through intentional, high-impact giving
• Support local students while elevating the arts in our community
• Be recognized as a champion of education, creativity, and future innovators

This is not transactional sponsorship. This is philanthropic leadership.