Jackson Ward celebrated in May

The Richmond Symphony and its Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra, Virginia Repertory Theatre, Richmond Jazz Society, Ezibu Muntu African Dance, Elegba Folklore Society and the ART 180 youth art program will collaborate in Celebrate Jackson Ward: Past, Present and Future, a festival running from May 20-22 in Abner Clay Park, West Clay Street at Brook Road in the central city’s historic Jackson Ward neighborhood.

Performances will employ the symphony’s recently acquired “Big Tent” portable concert stage, which also is being used for the RVA East End Festival, May 6-8 in Chimborazo Park.

Events in the Jackson Ward festival include ART 180’s spring program celebration, “The Really BIG Show,” on May 20; performances for children and families by the symphony and youth orchestra, theatre and companies and community artists and groups on May 21; and an ecumenical service and performances by church choir and liturgical dancers from Jackson Ward churches on May 22.

All events are free. Food, beverage and other vendors will be open in the park.

Celebrate Jackson Ward sponsors include The E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation, Genworth Financial, Richard and Caroline T. Gwathmey Memorial Trust, Beirne Carter Foundation and City of Richmond.

For more information on the festival, visit http://www.richmondsymphony.com/education-engagement/celebrate-jackson-ward/