The 24^th annual Business in the Arts Awards will be held May 12 at 6:00 p.m. at the Center of New Hampshire – Radisson Hotel in Manchester. Among the nominees are two law firms: Cleveland, Waters and Bass, P.A. and Hinckley, Allen & Snyder, LLP, both of Concord.

Sponsored by the New Hampshire Business Committee for the Arts, the gala will honor the 30 New Hampshire businesses nominated for this year’s awards. The evening highlights a celebration of business support for the arts and entertains with a performance showcase of drama, literature and music.

Virginia Prescott, host of "Word of Mouth" on New Hampshire Public Radio is the Master of Ceremonies for the festivities. The performers include the Nashua Symphony Chorus, the New Hampshire Poetry Slam Team, the New Hampshire Theatre Project and best-selling author Tomie dePaola.

More arts features include a cultural trivia quiz show with lucky contestants winning baskets filled with goodies from New Hampshire’s cultural; table centerpieces by the League of NH Craftsmen; and award prizes by Clifford Smith.

Thirty businesses were nominated for their sponsorships, employee volunteerism, and donations of products and services in support of the arts. The winners in each of four categories will be announced during the evening. Additionally, one individual will receive an award for leadership based on his or her demonstrated efforts in promoting business leadership commitments to the arts.