Support
Ford Theatre Foundation
Since its founding in 1994 by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, the Ford Theatre Foundation, an independent not-for-profit organization, has been dedicated to supporting the performing arts and education activities that are presented by the Los Angeles County Arts Commission at the John Anson Ford Amphitheatre.In addition to raising funds for the Ford's performing arts and education programs, one of the Foundation's most important functions is to present a growing number of innovative performing arts programs at the Ford, programs designed to address the specialized needs of local audiences.
The Foundation currently presents three annual series at the Ford: the BIG!WORLD!FUN! family series, an annual Chamber Music, and J.A.M. Sessions. These series offer outstanding groups in a format designed to introduce new audiences to the performing arts.
BIG!WORLD!FUN!
One of the most popular series at the Ford Amphitheatre, Big!World!Fun! is the Ford Theatre Foundation's outstanding series of music, dance and theatre performances for Los Angeles County children and their families. Big!World!Fun! is presented on Saturday mornings throughout the summer and features performers representing the diverse
cultural landscape of Southern California.
Big!World!Fun! is presented on summer weekends so that children and their parents can attend together. Big!World!Fun! is built on a programming strategy that brings the best dancers, musicians, actors, and storytellers from throughout the region to entertain Los Angeles families at the Ford. These exciting programs are free for children, and tickets are only $5.00 for the adults who accompany them.
Major support for the Big!World!Fun! series is provided by Macys and the Nissan
Foundation.
Chamber Music
Each year, the Ford Theatre Foundation presents a concert featuring a world-class chamber music ensemble. This evening concert continues an illustrious tradition of chamber music at the Ford, most notably violinist Jascha Heifetz and cellist Gregor Piatigorsky playing with their distinguished colleagues in the 1960s. Talented performers from around the world generate an enthusiastic and appreciative response from Ford audiences each summer. The show enjoys major support from The Colburn Foundation and Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky.
J.A.M. Sessions
In 2008, staff launched an initiative to establish a stronger connection between Angelinos and the Ford, not just as patrons in a traditional performing arts venue, but as active participants in a community space. Through free events open to the public, the Ford facilitates activities that encourage direct participation in the arts. These events relate to performances in the Ford’s core season and are intended to enhance the entire artistic and cultural experience of Ford patrons. The initiative creates community by giving patrons a creative outlet for their own self expression and an increased sense of belonging at the Ford.