Watch OWN Presents: Inside WACO's Wearable Art Gala

OWN Presents: Inside WACO's Wearable Art Gala is a television special that aired on the Oprah Winfrey Network in 2019. The one-hour program provides an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the annual Wearable Art Gala, which is hosted by Beyoncé's mother, Tina Knowles-Lawson, and her husband, actor Richard Lawson. The gala benefits the WACO (Where Art Can Occur) Theater Center, a nonprofit organization established by the couple to provide art and theater education to underprivileged youth.

The special takes viewers on a journey through the planning and execution of the event, from the initial creative concept to the red carpet arrivals and the spectacular live performances. The gala's theme for 2019 was "A Journey to The Pride Lands," inspired by the upcoming release of Disney's The Lion King. The event featured an impressive array of celebrity guests, including Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Kelly Rowland, Tyler Perry, and Viola Davis.

The program begins with an introduction to the Wearable Art Gala and the WACO Theater Center. Tina Knowles-Lawson and Richard Lawson, who also serves as the executive producer of the gala and the TV special, discuss their passion for the arts and their commitment to providing opportunities for young people to pursue their creative dreams. The couple explains the significance of the gala's theme for 2019 and the intricate process of designing and creating wearable art pieces that capture the essence of The Lion King.

The show then takes viewers on a tour of the gala's venue, the Santa Monica Airport's Barker Hangar, where the preparations for the event are in full swing. The special highlights the various stages of the design process, from the initial sketches and prototypes to the final pieces. The creative team behind the wearable art pieces shares their inspirations and the challenges they faced in bringing their visions to life. This behind-the-scenes footage provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of wearable art, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of the artists involved.

As the gala begins, the red carpet arrivals are captured in all their glamour and excitement. The stars share their love for the arts and their admiration for the work of the WACO Theater Center. Beyoncé, who is the honorary chair of the event, makes a stunning appearance in a gold gown adorned with feathers and a dramatic headpiece inspired by The Lion King. The celebrities' enthusiasm for the gala and its cause is palpable, emphasising the importance of supporting arts education for young people.

Throughout the night, the special showcases the spectacular live performances that take place at the gala. These performances blend music, dance, and theater to create breathtaking spectacles that capture the spirit of The Lion King. The show features performances by Kelly Rowland, Chloe x Halle, and Yara Shahidi, among others. Each performance is more awe-inspiring than the last, demonstrating the power of art to move and inspire audiences.

Towards the end of the program, the gala's hosts and organisers reflect on the significance of the event and the impact it has on the community. Tina Knowles-Lawson speaks passionately about her love for the arts and her desire to see young people have access to the same opportunities she had growing up. Richard Lawson emphasises the transformative power of the arts and the importance of supporting organisations like the WACO Theater Center that provide arts education and mentorship to underserved communities.

In conclusion, OWN Presents: Inside WACO's Wearable Art Gala is a must-watch for lovers of fashion, art, and entertainment. The show provides a unique and in-depth look at the process of creating wearable art and the importance of supporting arts education for young people. The celebrity guest appearances and live performances add an extra layer of excitement and glamour to the program, making it a captivating viewing experience from start to finish.