Jacksonville, FL

Ritz Theatre & Lavilla Museum in Jacksonville

Address: 829 N. Davis St. Jacksonville, FL 32202 - MAP
Phone: (904) 632-5555
Web: www.ritzjacksonville.com

Ritz Theatre & Lavilla Museum sprung from the ashes of the former Ritz Theater movie house, which was located in Jacksonville's historic African American community of La Villa.

Both of the structures are important in Jacksonville's history of arts and the African-American population. The Ritz Theatre is considered to be the premiere cultural institution in Jacksonville showcasing art, music, drama, poetry and African American history.

Performances include individual artists and touring productions. Events like the Black History Film Series, the Ritz Youth Oratorical Competition, and Amateur Night at the Ritz are all popular productions that draw residents and visitors alike.

The Ritz Museum features a permanent exhibit that honors local African American leaders throughout the development of Jacksonville and the contributions of African-Americans in Northeast Florida. Visiting exhibits have included the enormously popular "For Women and Men of Color: The Art of Relationships," Jacksonville's longest running annual exhibit featuring new works by African American artists.