INDIANAPOLIS — On April 23, Marian University’s arts and media programs came together to host a vibrant celebration of student creativity. Held in The Exchange inside the Mother Theresa Hackelmeier Memorial Library, the festival showcased work from The Marian Phoenix, the Theatre Department, The Siren, and The Fioretti.

The event offered students and faculty an interactive “carnival of the arts” — complete with performances, games, creative prompts, and treats — inviting participants on a journey through the heart of Marian’s artistic community.

Upon entering, guests were welcomed by a table filled with snacks, including cookies, brownies, and fresh fruit. To the left, laughter and lively conversation echoed throughout the space as visitors engaged with the displays and activities provided by the participating groups.

The Marian Phoenix table. Student journalists greeted visitors and invited them to snap a photo with the publication’s display sign. Attendees were encouraged to share their pictures on Instagram and enter a raffle for a chance to win prizes — a creative way to spread awareness and celebrate the student-run publication.

Theatre Department invited guests to play “Taylor Swift vs. Shakespeare,” a lighthearted game challenging participants to guess whether a line came from a Swift song or a Shakespearean play. Guests were encouraged to play in pairs, reflecting the collaborative nature of theater itself.

Attendees encountered a pair of bards — student performers who requested help writing a limerick. Participants were asked to contribute a word or a line, helping shape the piece that would later be performed live.

The Fioretti staff offered printed copies of their literary publication and invited attendees to contribute words of gratitude, closing the journey on a thoughtful, reflective note.

The Arts & Media Festival served as a joyful reminder of the creative spirit flourishing on campus — a chance to connect, create, and celebrate the work accomplished throughout the academic year.