LEESBURG, Va. - The Loudoun Arts Council (LAC) invites sophomore, junior and senior students in Loudoun County public and private schools to participate in its upcoming annual "Excellence in the Arts" program.

Information and entry forms can be obtained from high school art, drama, English and dance teachers, or guidance counselors, in the private and public schools, or from the LAC office. Students may submit entries in up to three of eight categories: theater, dance, vocal performance, instrumental performance, piano, visual arts, literary arts and film. Entry forms must be completed and mailed, or faxed, to the LAC office by March 10, 2006, along with a $5 entry fee. Professional panels will jury the work of students and cash prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place winners in each category.

Submissions for the literary, visual and film are due at the Arts Council, 15 North King St., 2nd floor, no later than 1 p.m. on March 22, 2005. The office will be open on Monday and Tuesday, March 20 and 21, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for early submissions.

Visual and literary judging will be held on March 23 through April 3. Competitions will be held on Saturday, April 1, 2006 for submissions in theater, dance, piano, vocal and instrumental performances. A professional panel of judges will determine the award winners in each category.

For more information, contact the Loudoun Arts Council at 703-777 7838 or info@loudounarts.org

The Loudoun Arts Council is a nonprofit organization that promotes the development of artistic expression throughout Loudoun County by supporting visual, performing and literary artists and arts organizations. For more information, contact the Council at 703-777-7838 or visit the Web site at http://www.loudounarts.org.