Agenda of Events
September 15
Press Conference 12 noon
Mayor John Peyton acknowledges and recognizes the 10th Anniversary of the Ritz and announces the events through September 25th.
September 15
Legions: The Legacy of Black Coaching in Jacksonville 6 PM
An evening of history and the untold stories of black coaching in segregated Jacksonville that demands a voice and recognition for its importance in developing pride, discipline and courage in the lives of athletes.
September 17
Poets of the New Revolution: An Evening w/ Sonia Sanchez
7:30 p.m. $20
Poet, playwright and activist Sonia Sanchez, acclaimed icon of the Black Arts Movement, brings to the Ritz stage her unmistakable word-storm of passion, wisdom and uncompromising truth. Tickets Ritz Box office and TICKETMASTER locations For more info call 632-5555.
September 19
Ritz Block Party 2-8 p.m. Free
Enjoy a festivities with local vendors, food classic movies, museum tours, old school dance party, entertainment featuring past Amateur Night winners, local artist and starring Neo Soul artist Dwele and Jazz and R&B artist Roy Ayers!
For more info call 632-5555.
September 22
High Tea 3-5 p.m. $10
A late afternoon traditional High Tea social honoring the unwavering commitment of our community supporters. Musical entertainment
For more info call 632-5555.
September 23
Harry T. Moore Film & Civil Rights Panel discussion 7-8:30 p.m.
A film on Harry T. Moore, founder of the first branch of the NAACP in Brevard County, Florida will be shown chronicling his life and the sacrifices that were made for the betterment of African Americans during the Civil Rights Era. Free Admission.
For more info call 632-5555.
September 25
Ritz Rent Party 8 p.m. 'till after midnight $50
A fund raiser in honor of the 10th Anniversary of the Ritz. An evening filled with entertainment, fun, food and dancing as you step back in time to the glorious days of LaVilla. Experience the Harlem Showcase hosted by Broadway star Maurice Hines, dance in the Two Spot Ballroom, jazz in the LaVilla Supper Club and special surprises and celebrity guest. Get dressed and stroll into an unforgettable evening.
Join us beginning Tuesday, Sept. 15, for 10 days of celebration and remembrance of the Ritz Theatre and LaVilla Museum. Agenda of Events
Originally opened in 1929 as a theater in LaVilla, the Ritz attracted movie goers for more than 40 years before the screen went dark and the doors were closed. But a new Ritz Theatre and LaVilla Museum—highlighted by the historic Ritz marquee—opened its doors Sept. 24, 1999.
Now, 10 years later, it's time to celebrate the building, its history and its irreplaceable value to the people of Jacksonville.
During the past decade, the Ritz Theatre has become a showcase for local, regional and national stars. The Ritz Voices joyfully remind us of our wealth of young talent. Troupes such as Les Ballet African have graced the stage. And gifted poets use The Spoken Word to rhythmically clarify and challenge our traditions and thoughts.
The LaVilla Museum, which has featured more than 30 exhibitions of fine art, folk art and historical displays, is an important archive for scholars studying the rich history, traditions and culture of the African Diaspora. In addition, the museum serves as a welcome resource for schools and community groups, providing workshops, lectures and gallery talks.
Click here to go to our new Web site and our calendar of events.
Ritz Theatre & LaVilla Museum celebrates the rich legacy of the African American community that thrived in LaVilla for more than 100 years. The theatre and museum are revered as the premiere cultural institution in Jacksonville showcasing art, music, drama, poetry, and African American history. The stories and legends of LaVilla, known as the "Harlem of the South," live on within the walls of the refurbished museum and theatre. Ritz Theatre & LaVilla Museum is committed to reclaiming the past, celebrating the present and embracing the future.