The Essential Theatre will hold an inaugural jazz scholarship fundraiser at the Black Archives on Saturday and Sunday.
The event is catered to financially service deserving theater students at Florida A&M.
Ronald Davis, former director of theater and professor emeritus, established the scholarship fundraiser to help recruit students with financial needs.
“This reception will be New Orleans-themed, and we will take all participants on a musical journey from New Orleans to Manhattan,” Davis said.
The Mardi Gras-themed event will feature New Orleans cuisine from Harry’s as well as two performances by the Michael Jefry Stevens Trio featuring Brian Cayolle.
Kimberly Harding, associate theater professor, said that the reception will follow a jazz concert and will honor and recognize patrons who contributed to the fundraiser.
A short reception will also recognize patrons who gave the most money to the fundraiser.
“All entertainment will carry the theme of the concert, and we want to service students dedicated to the Essential Theatre,” said Evelyn Tyler, event planner and theater professor.
Tickets are $50 for the concert and $100 for the reception. The invitation-only reception will begin at 3 p.m.
Davis said he hopes this reception will establish financial support for talented students and keep them enrolled in the program.