Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Bijou Theatre Center
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: The Bijou Theatre
Mailing Address: PO Box 1746
City: Knoxville
State: Tennessee
Postal Code: 37901
Main Phone: 865-522-0832
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://knoxbijou.org/
Employer ID Number: 62-1303589
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: March 28, 2024
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: The Bijou Theatre Imagination Series
Project Description:

The Bijou Theatre stands as a cherished cultural institution in East Tennessee, revered for its rich history and acclaimed performances spanning over a century. Recognized by The New York Times as "one of the best sounding rooms in this country," the Bijou Theatre has welcomed legendary artists on its stage from Joan Baez to Public Enemy, embodying Knoxville’s diverse cultural heritage.

Central to the Bijou Theatre’s mission is the Imagination Series, a transformative arts education initiative catering to school-age children across East Tennessee. In collaboration with local schools and community organizations, the Bijou Theatre invites students, many of whom are first-time theatergoers, to embark on an immersive field trip at this historic venue. The series serves as a vital platform for nurturing creativity, empathy, and curiosity among young learners through live theatrical experiences.

During the 2023-2024 season, the Series captivated audiences with productions of "The Rainbow Fish" and "Dot Dot Dot," sparking joy and wonder in the hearts of its young attendees. Looking forward, the Bijou is poised to inspire even more imaginations with upcoming performances of "Goodnight Moon" and "Remember Balloons" in the 2024-2025 season.

The Bijou Theatre remains steadfast in its commitment to accessibility, particularly for underserved schools in rural and low-income communities. Through the generous support of the Charles and Joan Hermanowski Family Foundation, funding will be allocated towards artist and production fees, ensuring the continuation of high-quality productions. Moreover, funding will facilitate ticket subsidies and travel grants, empowering schools to overcome financial barriers and ensure equitable access to the arts for all students.
By investing in the Bijou Theatre’s Imagination Series, the Hermanowski Family Foundation will not only enrich the lives of countless young learners but play a pivotal role in cultivating the next generation of creative thinkers and theatre lovers.

Total Project Budget: $48,000.00

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Potential grants from East Tennessee Foundation ($10,000) and Tennessee Arts Commission ($12,000)

Project Duration: November 2024 – May 2025
Geographical Area Served: Blount, Grainger, Jefferson, Knox, and Sevier counties in East Tennessee
Age Group To Be Served: Pre K to 5th grade

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Sam
Contact Last Name: Kimbro
Contact Title: Director of Development
Contact Phone: 865-522-0832 ext. 206
Contact Email: sam@knoxbijou.org