Building Community Through Arts: CultureWorks Grant Enhances Robinson Theater Programs

CultureWorks is dedicated to supporting initiatives that bring arts and cultural experiences to communities in need. In 2023, our grant funding helped Robinson Theater engage with the youth and families of Richmond's East End.

In November 2023, our grant funding enabled Robinson Theater to provide transportation for students from Woodville, Fairfield, and Henry L. Marsh Elementary Schools to attend the Youth Showcase. This initiative ensured that students could participate in and enjoy the showcase, and return home safely afterward.

 

Throughout the year, CultureWorks funding supported a variety of community events, including:

- Family Movie Night

- Casino/Game Night

- Annual Fall Festival

- Coalition Theater Improv Night

- The Nutcracker Ballet (a shortened version suitable for all ages)

- Annual Christmas Store

These events have been instrumental in bringing the community together, fostering a sense of belonging, and exposing residents to diverse cultural experiences.

 

Outcomes and Impact

  • Access to Arts & Culture: With CultureWorks grant funding, Robinson Theater partnered with local artists and organizations such as Jesse the Juggler, Stavna Ballet, and The Coalition Theater to bring arts and culture experiences directly to the community. This approach has significantly increased attendance and interest, providing opportunities that might otherwise be inaccessible due to transportation and financial barriers.

  • Class Retention: Robinson Theater achieved an impressive 80% retention rate for both youth and adults attending their classes. Participants gain essential soft and hard skills, improve their mental health through creative activities, and build lasting relationships.

  • Support for Working Parents: The afternoon programs, supported by CultureWorks grant funding, offer a valuable resource for working parents. These programs provide quality activities for their children, including transportation to and from school, ensuring that all children can participate regardless of their family's financial situation.

Testimonials from Parents

Parents have expressed their gratitude for the transportation service, emphasizing its importance in enabling their children's participation in Robinson Theater’s programs. These testimonials reinforce CultureWorks’ commitment to continuing this vital service.

 
 

About the Robinson Theater - (From their website)

A RICH HISTORY IN CHURCH HILL

Built in 1937, the Robinson Theater was a sophisticated version of Art Deco Moderne architecture. Commissioned by Hill Entertainment Group and designed by Richmond architect, Edward F. Sinnott,  the Robinson quickly became the center of activity for this thriving community.  The United States Department of the Interior lists the historic Robinson Theater as “the final icon of the transformation of this section of Church Hill into a middle-class African-American neighborhood”.

BILL “BOJANGLES” ROBINSON

The theater was named for Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, a native son of Richmond who grew up to be “the toast of Broadway, dazzling audiences with his remarkable footwork”.  To this day, he is considered by many to be the “World’s Greatest Tap Dancer”.  Former Virginia State Delegate, James Christian, Jr. doorman and assistant manager of the Robinson Theater recalled Bill Robinson as “a kind-hearted individual who had a great deal of interest in the people”.

At CultureWorks, we believe in the transformative power of arts and culture. By breaking down barriers and creating accessible opportunities, we are nurturing a vibrant and inclusive community.
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