Carolina Performing Arts Center will be sponsoring its annual Certificate and Awards Ceremony from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Friday, May 30, at the Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Southern Pines.

"If you missed the whimsical, funny and delightful production of 'Alice in Wonderland' last month, you won't want to miss this outstanding event of excellence in the art of dance and get a glimpse of the opportunities available for your child," says a spokesman.

The students who participated in the Royal Academy of Dance examinations will be presented with their certificates, over half of whom received the highest rating of "distinction." Also on the program will be a tap dance piece choreographed by Sue Peterson, executive director of CPAC. There will also be a lyrical "work in progress" to the music composed by Dulce Pontes, by Diana Turner-Forte.

"CPAC is distinctive in this area because of its use of the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus and its commitment to cultivating a love and passion for the art of dance," says Peterson.

The Royal Academy of Dance is a worldwide organization founded in 1920 to advance the standards of teaching of classical ballet, as well as providing an objective body of examiners to evaluate students worldwide. The training provides a progressive and developmentally appropriate system in the study of dance for ages 5 and up, with achievable goals taught in a manner to draw out each child's personal best.

Throughout the year, CPAC provides opportunities for students that include visiting teachers and discounted group rates to attend performances of Carolina Ballet. Due to a special relationship with Carolina Ballet, students will have the opportunity to audition for the Company's production of "Nutcracker." This year children can be part of the Sandhills entry.

To learn more about Carolina Performing Arts Center's Summer Program and early registration discounts for the fall and to audition for "Nutcracker," call (910) 695-7898.