LQ’s Performing Arts Center hosted its first “Culture on the Runway,” fashion, dance and dinner event Feb. 11 in downtown Bakersfield.

The event consisted of dance routines performed by LQ’s dance students.

The night began with owner, LaQuette Milner, on the runway thanking everyone for attending, and introducing the sponsors of the fashion show and the performances by the students.

For the opening, Milner read a poem by the name of “Who I Should Be,” before introducing all the sponsors and opening the first performances by the dance students.

The dance troupe’s opening act consisted of the whole troupe dancing to Keyshia Cole’s “Make Me over” and Lil’ Wayne, before clearing the runway for the fashion show.

Jezebelle’s women’s and men’s boutique was the first clothing store to exhibit items during the event hosted by Milner. Jezebel’s displayed two outfits for both men and women before Milner stepped back on the runway to reintroduce the dance troupe.

The second dance routine was performed by the eldest girls in the group to at least four of Beyonce’s songs, which included “Irreplaceable.” The routine lasted at least 10 minutes long, and the students exited the stage for the local artist-attending event.

Local artist Cre performed two songs off his new album “Episodes” during the event. The dance students assisted Cre during her last performance with the routine she designed for her song.

After the performance by Cre, Milner stepped onto the platform to give away free oil changes for the raffle she was holding.

There were a total of three raffle drawings for the whole event in support of saving LQ’s performing arts center.

Leluxe Clothing was a sponsor for the event as well as a part of the fashion show including Fabian’s Corner. Milner also had a T-shirt give away for the guest by guessing song lyrics.

The students continued to perform dance routines throughout the event until dinner was served at about 8 p.m. with a 30-minute break in between the next performance and fashion show.

During the dinner break, councilwoman Jackie Sullivan came in to pick up a plate, and she gave a small speech before leaving.

“I remember when LaQuette first came to a council meeting we were holding, and she wanted our support for the center,” Sullivan said. “After she introduced herself and her organization, I knew I was going to donate a check every month to support this group.”

The event finished with another group performance by the students and Milner introduced each student dancer by name and gave thanks to all sponsors, donators and the attending public.