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Arts & Entertainment

Ovations Honored with Dunedin Mayor’s Top Apple School Award for Achievement in the Arts

Ovations Repertory Company celebrates founder Orlando Pena's 2026 honor

Ovations Repertory Company, home of Ovations Dance Company, proudly celebrates founder Orlando Pena's recognition by Dunedin's Mayor Maureen Freaney with the Mayor’s Top Apple School Award for Achievement in the Arts for his work at Academie Da Vinci. This citywide honor reflects his commitment to inspiring young artists and fostering a creative learning environment where students thrive.

Pena shared, “I am honored to be acknowledged for the work I truly enjoy doing. From 14 yrs of age, when I began dancing, until today, the arts have played a role in my life, and now I get to continue to grow while passing it on to future generations with passion, dedication, and knowledge.”

He will be recognized during the City Commission Meeting on Thursday, May 7 at 6:00 PM at Dunedin City Hall, 737 Louden Ave. The evening will also include a proclamation for Teacher Appreciation Week and recognition of all award recipients.

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Ovations Repertory Company celebrates this achievement and the meaningful impact Pena continues to make in arts education and performance.

Learn more about Ovations' positive impact on the community at ovationsdanceoftampa.com/.

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