TEDDY WASHINGTON FOLLIES AWARDS SHOW MISSION

The Teddy Washington Follies Awards Show was established in 1999 as the annual cultural event that recognizes the contributions made by the ‘unsung stars without the spotlights’ of the arts and entertainment. Those individuals, who have not enjoyed the attention that national acts receive, now are properly recognized in an atmosphere of great entertainment at the Teddy Washington Follies Awards Show in Jacksonville, Florida. This annual event held at the Florida Theatre recognizes people for their past, ongoing, and future potential contributions to the rich history of Jacksonville’s cultural fabric and that of folks throughout the State.

We believe that the annual Jacksonville Follies Awards Show can become ‘the’ red carpet event of Jacksonville as its premier annual attraction by developing ways to connect the community together with its history and the impact the arts has on education. With the Teddy Washington Follies Awards Show leading the way, we will become the defining event that gives thanks to folks who have contributed to our wonderful history and culture that is to be American, and provide a voice for the positive enduring effects arts education has on children.

We have also included as part of the show a Silent Auction component that is incorporated into the VIP reception and intermission. Different local artists are showcased with their works during this time each year and are included in the recognition process. Each year we seek out new and innovative artists to compliment the event and round out the experience.

Woven into the big band and individual performances of the show, we pause for special performances by our honorees that are then recognized for their contributions to the arts and are presented with an award of excellence in three categories.

1) The “Fabric of Culture Award” honors folks who have contributed to our history of the arts and entertainment.

2) The “Cultural Innovator Award” honors those who are currently involved in projects bringing new and innovative art and entertainment into our lives.

3) The “Chords of the Future Award” is reserved to honor our youth who are currently demonstrating a commitment to the arts and need a to whet their talent at a larger venue.

In addition, through our strategic partners like the Clara White Mission and our sponsors, the Teddy Washington Follies Awards Show gives over a hundred tickets away to local organizations for distribution to underprivileged children so they can enjoy a new experience. By bringing forward more young people in this fashion they are exposed to history, innovation, and see their peers receive awards by creating an atmosphere of positive references that may inspire a child to reach for a dream.

We invite you to come and enjoy a night of good clean entertainment, and help us reach out to Jacksonville an expression of appreciation for the folks who bring us the arts and the potential. Nominate your artist or entertainer today at www.jacksonvillefollies.com.

Art washes away the dust from everyday life -Pablo Picasso