THE CHARLES MINGUS –
SON OF WATTS –
MUSICAL CARAVAN PROJECT GRANT

In October 2007, the Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) applied for a National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) American Masterpieces Presenting grant, a highly competitive category designed to present works widely considered “American Masterpieces.”  DCA was awarded a grant, the second largest award made nationally in this round of NEA American Masterpieces grants, to produce “The Charles Mingus - Son of Watts - Musical Caravan,” which celebrates the life and music of jazz artist Charles Mingus (1922-1979), a highly influential bass player, accomplished pianist, bandleader, and composer who resided in the Watts district of Los Angeles.

National Endowment for the Arts

The National Endowment for the Arts is a public agency dedicated to supporting excellence in the arts, both new and established; bringing the arts to all Americans; and providing leadership in arts education. Established by Congress in 1965 as an independent agency of the federal government, the Endowment is the nation's largest annual funder of the arts, bringing great art to all 50 states, including rural areas, inner cities, and military bases.

Special Thanks

We would like to extend our gratitude to Sue Mingus and the Mingus family, the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa, City Council Member Janice Hahn, The Walt Disney Company, The Friends of the Watts Towers Arts Center, the greater Watts Community, and our Watts Towers Arts Center and Charles Mingus Youth Arts Center artists and students.