ORLANDO – WrestleManiArt an event showcasing original artwork created by current WWE® Superstars will take place in Downtown Orlando on Wednesday March 26th. The first-of-its kind occasion which will be held at City Arts Factory is the official kickoff event of WrestleMania week which culminates with WrestleMania 24 on Sunday March 30th at the Florida Citrus Bowl. WrestleManiArt is co-hosted by the Central Florida Sports Commission the City of Orlando United Arts of Central Florida and World Wrestling Entertainment®.  

“World Wrestling Entertainment is one of the world’s most creative brands ” said John Saboor president of the Central Florida Sports Commission. “WrestleManiArt blends that creativity with Central Florida’s deep appreciation for the arts giving WWE fans a unique glimpse at the hidden talents of some of their favorite superstars.”

Several WWE® Superstars will join invited guests at WrestleManiArt for an evening of art displays silent and live auctions food and refreshments. Among the artwork to be auctioned off will be pieces by WWE legend Jerry Lawler and memorabilia from past WrestleMania’s. Also included in the display will be a tribute collage by SmackDown® General Manager Vickie Guerrero honoring her late husband and former WWE Superstar Eddie Guerrero.

“WrestleMania is the ultimate match-up of sport and art ” noted Margot Knight president of United Arts of Central Florida.  “We are thrilled these Superstars are willing to share their talents to help the local arts community.  Who knew these superstars had artistic talent OUTSIDE the ring?”

WrestleManiArt will also feature a WWE-inspired piece of work by local contemporary dance company DRIP.

Tickets for WrestleManiArt will go on sale to the general public on March 12 2008 for $50. All net proceeds will benefit the ongoing community programs associated with the Central Florida Sports Commission and United Arts of Central Florida. Visit www.Redchairproject.com for ticket purchase and additional event information.

Nearly 70 000 fans from all 50 states and 21 countries will converge on Orlando for WrestleMania 24 marking the first time the WWE’s signature event will take place in Florida. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com.

About the Central Florida Sports Commission
The Central Florida Sports Commission is a non-profit private organization created to attract international national and regional events and sports-related business and activities to Central Florida.  The Sports Commission is the Central Florida area’s clearinghouse and first point of contact for sports and sports-related activities and is committed to developing the region’s sports product.

About United Arts of Central Florida
United Arts of Central Florida is a dynamic non-profit collaborationof businesses governments foundations arts and cultural organizations school districts artists and individuals.This partnership worksto enhance the quality and variety of cultural experiences available throughout Lake Orange Osceola and Seminole counties. United Arts envisions a diverse well-attended fiscally sound arts and cultural community that serves residents and visitors to the Central Florida region.

Trademark Note:  All World Wrestling Entertainment Inc. programming talent names images likenesses slogans wrestling moves and logos are the exclusive property of World Wrestling Entertainment Inc.  ECW is a trademark of WWE Libraries Inc.  All other trademarks logos and copyrights are the property of their respective owners."

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