Celebrate San Diego’s Young Artists at the VAPA Foundation’s Beyond Brilliance Gala

San Diego’s brightest young artists are taking center stage at Beyond Brilliance—the VAPA Foundation’s annual spotlight benefit at the gorgeous Epstein Family Amphitheater at UC San Diego.

Now in its sixth year, this vibrant evening is more than a showcase—it’s a joyful, high-energy celebration of arts education across San Diego Unified schools.

It’s a dazzling lineup of student performances in dance, mariachi, musical theater, and a full award-winning orchestra—all set beneath the stars in one of San Diego’s newest open-air venues.

What To Expect

VIP Champagne Reception
Kick off the evening with bubbles and a Broadway-style performance during an exclusive pre-show experience.

Main Event & Performances
Enjoy bites, cocktails, and a stunning lineup of musical moments, including:

  • Mira Mesa High School Orchestra
  • CPMA Jazz Ensemble
  • Bell Middle School Mariachi
  • Selections from Gypsy by Scripps Ranch High School
  • Student visual art displays from around San Diego

Stick around after the show for dessert, coffee, and more music under the night sky.

Support the Arts—And the Artists of Tomorrow

Beyond Brilliance benefit is also a major fundraiser supporting arts access and equity in local public schools. Your ticket directly supports programs that make creativity and self-expression possible for students across San Diego.

See you there!

Don’t miss this special evening filled with creativity, inspiration, and community as we celebrate the next generation of San Diego’s brightest young artists.

📅 May 10, 2025 | 6 PM
🎟️ Tickets start at $250 | Get yours here
📍 9500 Gilman Drive, UC San Diego
✨ Dress Code: Bold, colorful, and creative—just like the students you’re supporting

See you there, San Diego!

Share This Event
Event Details
  • Start Date
    May 10, 2025 6:00 pm
  • End Date
    May 10, 2025 9:00 pm
  • Status
    All done
  • Location
  • Venue
    • Epstein Family Amphitheater
  • Address
    9598 Gilman Dr, San Diego, CA
  • Tickets
Event Map
The Latest
OluKai La Jolla
Visit the OluKai La Jolla location for premium footwear and a unique design that embodies the spirit of both Hawaii and California.
Pacific Records Festival
Mark your calendar for the Pacific Records Festival! Experience great music and stunning views at Kate Sessions Park this July.
Insomniac's Into the Horizon Festival crowd at Waterfront Park San Diego
Insomniac’s Into the Horizon Festival is coming to Waterfront Park in Downtown San Diego for a two-day electronic music event on the city’s most iconic...
Andaz San Diego june lineup
If you’re looking for a reason to get up to the Andaz San Diego rooftop this month, the calendar is doing a lot of the...
Ziggy Marley performing live on the Brightside Tour 2026 in San Diego
Ziggy Marley is bringing his Brightside Tour to San Diego for a night of live reggae at one of the city’s best outdoor venues. Supporting...
Temecula Wine country
Explore the Temecula Valley Wine Country summer lineup featuring live music, poolside cocktails, and new tasting experiences.
Event Details
  • Start Date
    May 10, 2025 6:00 pm
  • End Date
    May 10, 2025 9:00 pm
  • Status
    All done
  • Location
  • Venue
    • Epstein Family Amphitheater
  • Address
    9598 Gilman Dr, San Diego, CA
  • Tickets
Upcoming Events
Bird's Eye View of Mission Bayfest
October 16, 2026
3:00 pm
  • Mariners Point
Mission Bayfest is heading back to the waterfront this fall, bringing three days of reggae, rock, and SoCal vibes to Mariner’s Point Park along the...
Tori Amos San Diego
August 26, 2026
7:30 pm
  • San Diego Civic Theatre
There are artists who put on a show, and then there’s Tori Amos – a force of nature who turns every performance into something genuinely...
RESET Beach Wellness Event
August 2, 2026
8:00 am
  • Mission Beach Park
SSBD and Almost Nakey are joining forces for RESET, a brand-new beachside event happening at Fit Social Club. It’s a full day of movement, recovery,...
Taste of Eastlake
July 24, 2026
6:00 pm
If you’re looking for a summer night out that means something, this one’s worth circling. The EastLake Educational Foundation is hosting its annual Taste of...
Pacific Records Festival
July 19, 2026
4:00 pm
  • Kate O. Sessions Memorial Park
Mark your calendar for the Pacific Records Festival! Experience great music and stunning views at Kate Sessions Park this July.
Event Search: