Our History
Rebecca Edwards founded cultural Arts For Everyone (CAFÉ), as a non-profit organization in 2000. Its purpose, then and now, is to “create a difference by making Memphis more cosmopolitan, bridging the racial divide between Memphians, educating the youth of the city and building a new audience—all through the performing arts.”
Over the years, CAFÉ also played a significant role in the Memphis community advocating for a number of other local arts groups and programs. In addition, CAFE continues to offer matinee performances for students, and helps coordinate after-school arts education. CAFÉ welcomes the support of individuals and organizations interested in promoting the arts in our community.
2000
over the years
Since CAFÉ’s founding in 2000, such artists as Miss Nancy Wilson, Patti LaBelle, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Al Jarreau, Kathleen Battle, Ladysmith Black Mombazo, CeCe Winans, Arturo Sandoval, Sweet Honey in the Rock, Shelia E, Three Mo’ Tenors, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Nuttin' But Stringz, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, Ballet Hispanico, Def Poetry Jam, Nai Ni Chen Dance Company, Hugh Masekela, John Amos, Ailey II, Soweto Gospel Choir Regina Carter, and Boys Choir of Harlem have shared their artistry with Memphians.
Artists of such stature attract the diversity of audience members of all ages, which is central to CAFÉ’s mission.
