My wife and I attended a show here on 19 Mar 2022. We witnessed the Dueling Pianist (Noel Freidline and Kevin Bales); 'AMAZING'! Noel Freidline (& Friends) will be on stage again later this year, perhaps June or July. This particular night, he catered to a very diverse audience. He alone is worth the price of admission. Prior to the event my wife and I got to meet Ms. Syrita Franks (the Event Manager). She took from her busy schedule to show us around the RITZ. She was so passionate about giving the tour. At one point during the tour, Mrs. Williams broke down into tears when she was taken back to a moment in history that her ancestors experienced. The RITZ is filled with so much history and you MUST experience it personally. It's not just a historical landmark, but it's a place to hold various events (parties, weddings, church events, family reuions, etc) of your very own. Please visit the RITZ Calendar and come out for a night with Lisa Fisher, a night of Sax Strings and Soul, a night of Puttin on the Ritz (Amateur Night), and more. As the Co-Owner of Favor Fotos Entertainment, LLC, I will say, "should you come out, there may be a chance for you to meet not just my wife and I, but a chance to witness one or two of my daughters make history as they plan to compete during Puttin on the Ritz". Come out to enjoy the live entertainment, take some beautiful pictures, witness history of the past, as well as history in the making. I hope to see you there.

I bought tickets to visit the Museum while visiting from out of town during December. I anticipated visiting the museum on December 30, 2022. Upon arrival around 1:45pm on the 30th, the front doors were locked. We rung the doorbell to the office to at least get confirmation the museum was closed, especially since we saw a staff car parked outside in the staff parking lot. No one ever came to answer the door which confirmed the “closure.” We called the number listed on the front door to hopefully get more answers, but we were met with rudeness. The number listed is for multiple venues within the JAX area, not just the Ritz. We stated what happened (we bought tickets, arrived and doors were locked) and the operator said that the museum should be open. However, she followed by saying “You should have called before buying the tickets.” Why exactly would I call if the Google information says 10a-4pm and the website did not have any indication that the establishment would be closed on December 30. She also stated that the museum was on lunch break at the time we arrived at 1:45pm. The sign on the door stated “office closed, happy new year.” There was a lot of runaround & uncertainty amongst everyone. I was told to contact Ticketmaster to receive a refund. I was also told that someone would be contacting me from the museum to discuss the incident. I will be attempting to dispute the charge on my card.

Was there last nite to see a gospel stage play calledUntil you do right by me..the play was good and had lots of good point about family issues but was very disappointed with the treatment of getting VIP tickets and not knowing or letting people know what time to be before the show started..We got there around 6:15 and had to rush in so we could be sitting to have a dinner before the play stated at 7 pm so we had to wait to order our food from the menu that was included in the admission but didn't get to eat because the food was being served after 7 pm and we chose to go to our seat and watch the play instead And as far as our choice between fish or chicken for our meal there was nothing for my wife who is a vegetarian..so next time the person that is in charge..you need to plan better and tell people that paid all this money to be treated like this but again it was great play but not planned correctly... Thank u God bless Eric Just found out that we can come the play again on Sunday for free since we had a bad experience but we saw the play it's just that we didnt get to relax and eat so why would I come back to see the play since it's only 20 dollars for the general admission so we should get some type of refund instead of going our to see the play again.. Thank you Eric

The Ritz is an amazing place. I was able to learn about the positive contributions and impact of African Americans on the wonderful city of Jacksonville and America. Unfortunately the history books have done very little to showcase the valuable role African Americans have played to make this country the best in the world. African Americans have been oppressed, enslaved, victimized and killed in this country because of their skin color. Throughout all this African Americans contributed so much including served in the military and died in defense of this country. The Ritz is awesome and we as Americans need to support this wonderful place. Thanks to the Ritz for showcasing African Americans talent and contributions to Jacksonville, Florida and America.

I had a wonderful time here on Saturday night for the Will Downing concert. I enjoyed the opening act as well. Especially the young man who performed the Teddy Pendergrass song. I loved seeing all of the vendors, patrons dressed up, and the bar offered popcorn, soda, and alcohol. There isn't a bad seat in the theatre. It's nice and intimate. I sat in the last row in P. The seat numbers on the far right starts at 101, so I made sure we weren't far from the aisle. Next time I will purchase tickets earlier to get an aisle seat, because people were constantly in and out of their seats. I look forward to the anniversary concert next year!

Terrific venue, engaging history and a real jewel to behold! I visited this historic place and was mesmerized by the attention to detail in its' architecture and professionalism of its' staff. If you are remotely interested in the history of Jacksonville, particularly how its' history has been shaped by the African American experience, this important piece of real estate should be on your agenda to behold. Interesting, humbling and a wonderful place for the whole family. Go there!

Last night was my first experience at The Ritz. It is incomprehensible that the venue apparently doesn't advertise its performances as much as it should...a 1/3 occupancy of 400+ seats doesn't pay the performer, or food/drink vendors for their time. Fortunately The Ritz utilizes volunteers as ushers (who get to enjoy shows for their assistance). There should be a LIT marquee with changeable sign highlighting upcoming shows so passersbys on foot or in cars can SEE upcoming shows.

This Museum houses a lot of history for the Lavilla Jacksonville area. They have an animatronics that features James Weldon Johnson and his brother John Rosamond Johnson. There are monthly amateur night talent shows which is a great experience for the whole family! You can rent part of the venue for wedding reception, a business luncheon or even a retirement party. It's definitely a hidden little nugget. One of the less expensive museums in Jacksonville.

The Tour of Florida Continues! The Ritz Theater & Museum in downtown Jacksonville was an unexpected treat. I'll have several posts from this special place. The opening featured animatronics (robots) that replicated the history of the Weldon brothers who wrote the Black National Anthem "Lift Every Voice and Sing.". I've learned so so much about them. They're actually from Jacksonville. I had no idea. I would definitely recommend this place for a visit.

As an historic artifact, the Ritz Theatre has a particular value to African American visitors. On this occasion, we were pleased to attend a concert by Bradd Marquis singing the music and telling the life story of the legendary singer and social activist, Sam Cooke. The performance was outstanding and quite memorable. The venue was great. Those who visit the Jacksonville area should plan to tour the Ritz as part of the African American Heritage Trail.

Love this established museum and theatre. My first time there was for their Tuskegee Airmen exhibit several years ago... which was wonderful. Personal for me since my dad told me as a WWII pilot there was nothing that looked better than the Red Tails to get his crew and him safely back. The other exhibits are wonderful. The theatre and programs are to be cherished. I'd recommend it and hope many many others, young and old, learn about and enjoy it.

This was such a nice venue to host the First Annual Jacksonville Image Awards. The building has beautiful photos on the walls that just makes the place stand out. It is very spacious and easy to mingle outside the theater and have cocktails. In the theater, the seats are very intimate. It doesn’t matter where you sit, you still have a great view of the stage. Overall, a lovely evening at a beautiful establishment in Jacksonville.

I visited the Theater for my Niece's Fall Recital. "The Golden Nutcracker". It was very nice and the support staff were very professional. The Police Department had officers on site directing traffic and providing Security. I felt safe and secure knowing they were onsite. The Theater was beautiful and well kept. The show was amazing! The staging, lights, and sound system were professionally executed. I'll definitely be back!

Very disappointed. I paid 50 dollars a piece for four reserved seats to see the Golden Nut Cracker and when i arrived we had no reserved seats. They said that we would not be able to sit together. I paid 60 dollars extra for reserved seating. I asked for refund and the manager said that she would request a refund but we would have to wait until Monday to receive a phone call. Very unorganized venue. I will NEVER go back.

First time visiting! Nice way to learn about the origins of the city especially for African Americans. I even saw a last name I recognize from one of the cities in South Carolina. The people have the same profession too! The animatronic show was really cool! I wasn't expecting that. It wasn't busy when I came through so I had time to really enjoy the exhibits. I'd recommend going here.

I absolutely love this place! The staff is so incredibly sweet. The artwork makes you really think and appreciate everything around you and I love that it's not just experienced artists but it is students and up and coming artists that are featured. Definitely can't wait to come back here when there is a performance. I hope this theater continues to be successful!

This was our first visit to the Ritz. The theater is beautiful and any seat is a good seat. The show was wonderfully done. We are already looking forward to our next visit. I was really surprised that there was not more people. Look them up and see all the upcoming shows they have to offer. Support the Ritz so the can continue to offer these types of events.

Happy The Ritz Theatre is hosting and featuring fantastic, well known artists again. (I saw KEM here yrs ago when he first started performing professionally). This intimate setting was perfect for the adult, sensuous Grammy nominated pure R&B artist Raheem Devaughn. Seats comfortable for the ticket prices. View perfect. Sound quality was great.

I was here for the play "Till you do right by me" and as always I not only enjoyed the entertainment but also the atmosphere of the Ritz theater. After the play the cast came out and mingled with those in attendance in the spacious lobby. It is a beautiful and comfortable theaters for plays and other productions.

My family and I went to the Ritz for Kwanzaa celebration. It was amazingly informative, fun, and exciting. One of the best parts about this place is the musuem. Very factual about the history of black people in Jacksonville. It's free to the public too! Will definitely come bacm again for another event SOON

This is such a great theatre. I went to watch a performance called dream in color and it was great they have a lot of room within the theatre the stage was big enough for all the performers and my fiancé had such a good time. They had security and a lot of vendors a very nice theatre! I recommend

The Ritz is a great little venue to see all kinds of talented people perform. My wife and I saw Black Violin here and were completely blown away by both the stage setup, the friendliness of the staff, and the act themselves. I highly recommend checking out the museum and seeing a show here.

The Ritz Theater & Museum is a must see destination! The history of the LaVilla Community is AMAZING and the Ritz takes you on an amazing historical journey through the many ups and the downs that make our Black Community and our Jacksonville Community resilient, strong, and beautiful!!

Loved the Ritz. We went on a Sunday and they have some fun activities for kids and adults to enjoy. It is a great time to get away on a Sunday afternoon. You can actually meet some of the local artists who have painting there for sale and they also have spoken words from locals.

Update - Wonderful museum very nostalgic. Been back to see our friends performance we sat in lobby and realized how nice this theater is. Decorations, drapery, stage all looks like something you would experience in the hay day of musicals lighting just wonderful place.

Came here to get a tour of a theater, left with more black history and knowledge of Jacksonville. They have some beautiful exhibits of local photographers, and there was a smaller theater inside that used animatronics to tell the history of Jacksonville.

The museum is exceptional. Artwork and displays are beautiful and interesting. The African Bazaar on the last Sunday of the month is a great place to purchase unique clothing, jewelry, hair and beauty products and of course, delicious meals and foods.

It was an spectacular night with LPT the salsa band of riverside the venue is beautiful and historic. The staff is awesome and the event was delightful. The crowd was dancing happy and animated to move to the rhythm. It was well worth the admission.

Awesome place! A real historical landmark that's definitely worth a visit! From Puttin on the Ritz (every 1st Friday) to The Museum to the wonderful talent that's brought there to perform, there will always be something for everyone at The Ritz!

I went for the first time to this theater/ museum as a special tour for educators. I had a great time learning about facts of the Black American artistic community and the struggles they had to endure to show their talents in the past. The

This museum was way more than what I expected it to be! I absolutely loved it. I loved that there were original artifacts set up in actual rooms that really brought the times to life! It was so fun! Very nice and clean and friendly staff!

Quite appropriate for medium sized venues. Lobby area is functional. Details touches are surprisingly decent. Fairly long walk if you must park far away. Will likely need parking security for vehicles due to proximity. Overall very nice.

I catered an event here for Nat Glover's book signing. What a great event at a historic venue complete with theater and museum. The staff and security were excellent and so very accommodating not only to the caterers but guests as well.

What an amazing show! Saw Jane Lynch, Kate Flannery, & Tim Davis in "A Swingin' Little Christmas"! It was fantastic! And the theatre is a wonderful venue in which to hold any event! What a wonderful staff, and the location is perfect!

It was a lovely experience.. My daughter and I toured the African American Museum. I did not realize there was so much African-American History in Jacksonville, Fl. I'm from Texas. Great spare of the moment Spring Break trip!!

I. Love. This. Place. We went for the Culture Street Festival. The vendors and food were on point. The museum is AMAZING! There's so much Black... No... American History here. If you get the chance, please go check it out.

This is a beautiful historical venue that can accommodate entertainment of the arts as well as special events. #DLR904 #google #localguide #imfromduval #talkintrees #yourfavoriteuncle #iamunclenard #ilovejax #igersjax

The Journey Finale perform by Yohasse Performing Arts was Extraordinary, each performer stepped up their game performing in Jax Artifacts The original Ritz Theatre it was an honor for me to be a part of that History.

For the last two years I have had the pleasure of performing on this stage. Every year I walk through the museum, Jacksonville's history amazes me. It should be at the top of everyone's "Thing to Do," list.

The spiritual atmosphere was great. The show was fun and audience interactive. I felt very comfortable and really enjoyed myself at amateur night. Looking forward to more first Friday's at the Ritz.

We attended our niece’s dance recital here last weekend. The theatre and museum are both impressive. The staff were very welcoming and helpful. Great hospitality and great venue.

Various historical and entertainment events held here. The theater has it's own charm. Plenty of parking available. It's a block from a major highway easy to get to and to leave.

I saw a stage play "the family Wright Thanksgiving", enjoyed it. The history artifacts of African American from the Jacksonville Florida area is great. You need to visit it.

The Most Worshipful Union Grand Lodge exhibit is amazing!!! The rich history of years past, was a step back into time itself. Rt. W. James L Norman, Grand Lodge Trustee

An amazing view of African American history in Jacksonville and a part of History most of us in Jacksonville don't know. Great exhibit with an even more amazing story!

AN AMAZING PLACE TO FIND OUT INFORMATION ON AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY....ALOT I DIDN'T KNOW OR WAS EVEN TAUGHT IN SCHOOL. I SHED A TEAR AFTER AS I WAS LEAVING

Very clean great service. We went to the play airing grandmother's dirty laundry great play by Miss Tasha I can't wait for the next play or book to come out

Lovely place to visit and learn. The exhibits change frequently so you will not be be bored. This place is a must visit when you come to Jacksonville.

We had A Wonderful Time the play was Excellent !!!!just Awesome just Great. Very very Nice place Awsome Beautiful Excellent Excellent …

Sound system was checked during the show & it still wasn't right. Musicians were louder than the singers. Nice environment tho. Staff is nice too!

Dennis Stewart "MR. NATURAL " Had his memorial tribute there. It was different, but good as elegantly said by the great Reverend Mckissick Sr.

Awesome! Very educational. Everyone should visit at least once. You will be glad that you did. I plan to go once a month from now on.

Part theater, part museum, all historical and incredibly well-designed. Don't miss this place if you're doing a tour of Jacksonville

I always have a wonderful time at the Ritz Theatre. Love the concerts and cultural activities they provide. Staff is very friendly.

Great experience but the microphone of 1 cast went out a little bit but was saying something important!!! Otherwise great spot!!

Beautiful, clean, and intimate atmosphere! I love this venue. I have gone here for a few concerts and toured the museum as well.

Never knew there was so much rich Black history in Jacksonville. I enjoyed their recreation of places/rooms. I learned a lot.

Extremely nice venue and interesting museum. A veritable gem especially when guided by the curator Adonnica Toler. Visit it!

I went to see Forget me not. The play was great. The staff were friendly and helpful. Being at the Ritz is always a pleasure

Awesome place love history of all kinds wpuld3 def suggest it... Go see people.. Don't be afraid you might learn something.

Saw a wonderful comedy show and enjoyed a private viewing of the museum. Jacksonvillle hospitality at it's best! Thanks....

The woman with the dread was rude and disrespectful, she looks like an angry person she needs to be in place like that.

My wifey, I along with another couple went here to enjoy thee, "STANLEY JORDAN"! Let me tell you; A SPECTACULAR SHOW!!

First time I've ever been to the Ritz Theater and they have a museum. As well as I got to see Lorrie Morgan in concert

Beautiful theatre and incredible museum. This is a hidden gem of Jacksonville. If you are in the area, don’t miss it.

Always a great time at the Ritz, the 1st Friday of every month is amateur night. Its good clean family entertainment.

Fantastic, I truly enjoyed learning the African American story in Jacksonville. Looking forward to coming back again.

My daughter and her after school/summer camp program performed here and the staff and venue was an amazing experience

I enjoyed the entertainment, museum, and exhibits! This is a place where you and your family can relax and hang out.

It is beautiful and amazing! Please don't sleep on the Ritz. History is all up in there. I'm definitely going back!

The seats were a bit cramped. It was an enjoyable experience, nonetheless. Raheem Devaughn put on an amazing show.

I enjoy going to the African Bazaar. I look forward to the last Sunday of the month to see what I'll find and see.

It's always a great time at the Ritz. Especially amateur night, the first Friday of each month. Great talent!

It was amazing .. The Legends of R_B performance!!! Check the website !!! They have other shows every month

LUV'd every moment and your outside seat is awesome. The staff and food provided magic for great memories.

Fantastic museum about Jacksonville's rich black history and it's connection to the fight for civil rights

These are my street photographs of the Ritz Theater in LaVilla Jacksonville Florida in the a.m.Peace

Beautiful venue, historic, great staff. Bathroom could use some updating , but this place is awesome

Love the rich history of La Villa and Jacksonville 's pioneering African-American historical figures

Loved the artwork of the artist, and the archive of African Americans achievements in Jacksonville.

Puttin on the Ritz . First Friday of the month. Jacksonville's got talent. Next show in September

Only seen outside our building. Have not gone inside@ the moment. Soon I'm sure I'll visit Ritz.

Hope more events come through there it is a place the must have local support to really revive.

I always enjoy the ritz. Great entertainment. Would be better if they had more food selections

Great exhibit with plenty of Jacksonville and Weldon Johnson culture to immerse yourself in.

My first "First Friday" and I was overly impressed. There is so much talent in Jacksonville.

Went to see Bobby Rush for the first time and was not disappointed. The show was excellent.

Awesome experience and beautiful exhibits, I definitely will be returning on my next trip.

Both Museum and show were wonderful. Lots of ambiance, clean and professionally managed.

I had never been here before. I hope to return. We went to a concert here and loved it.

The Ritz is such an amazing place. You have to check out the musuem. Such history here.

The play was awesome! The information about Alzheimers was even better. Forget me not!

Special family time spent with my mom learning about art and African American culture

We have a company townhall there today and it was a very good place to hold an event

Ritz Museum is small but fun. Enjoyed the special art today for Black History month

The staff gives outstanding service and cares about the people they interact with.

Nice place but ran out of Programs while still asking for a $15 donation to enter.

It's always interesting and enlightenment to hear of how our ancestors worshipped.

Until You Do Right By Me ,play by Dr. Shaun Powell was awesome. Great date night

Such a cool place and has a lot of important history in Jax. Highly recommend!!!