Grab a barbecue sandwich, settle into a chair and enjoy some of Indian Land High School's finest artists, writers and musicians at the Indian Land High School Arts Gala on Thursday night.

The gala, presented by the school's fine arts department, will showcase the talents of Indian Land High School's students, said Band Director Matt Willis. Featured artists and groups will include the Indian Land Jazz Band, the Indian Land Choir and readings by student poets.

The cafeteria will be turned into an art gallery for the evening, with sculptures, paintings and drawings by student artists. Student authors will also read excerpts from their work.

"I want to have an opportunity for the community to come in and celebrate our young artists," Willis said. "I want people to see the products and the talent and the effort our students are putting in here at the high school."

This will be the first public performance for some of the newer groups, Willis said, including the newly formed jazz band and the clarinet duo. The gala is a good opportunity for people to see the new and existing arts programs the high school offers, he added.

Gilb's Barbecue will sell barbecue sandwiches and platters throughout the evening, but admission to the arts gala is free.

"This is not a fundraiser," Willis said. "We just want to unite the arts at the school. Just experience the art that is going on here at Indian Land in a very casual, laid back setting."

Students will perform from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the high school's commons area.