Supporting Illinois' Arts Sector

Praize Productions, Inc. (PPI) was established in 2010 on Chicago's South Side by Enneréssa LaNette, the organization's CEO/founder. Known for their theatrical productions, youth programming, and RIZE Professional Company, PPI's holistic approach to dance and community engagement has earned them such accolades as the Black Theater Alliance Award and eleven Black Excellence Awards from the Black Arts and Cultural Alliance.

Their 2026-2027 season kicks off with the annual Homecoming event on September 12th. This celebration, part of PPI's "Beyond the Stage" initiative, promises a vibrant day of dance, food, and fun, designed to engage the community and make the arts more accessible. This year, PPI is partnering with the South Side Sanctuary to bring hundreds of residents together for this special occasion. The Performing Arts Academy begins its Fall season on September 14th, welcoming youth aged 3-18 to register and participate in its transformative programs.

Says Enneréssa LaNette, “The funding that we receive from the Illinois Arts Council allows our beloved organization to continue to enrich our communities and the city of Chicago with arts-based programming that deeply impacts the lives of residents and artists alike, while driving resources and opportunities directly back into our underserved neighborhoods." Follow the link below for more information about PPI and their events or follow them on their social media platforms.

Gabriel Chizzotti Jung, an experienced director of photography, has made a name for himself in visual storytelling over the past decade, working both internationally and throughout the United States. Originally from São Paulo, Brazil, his career began in a commercial studio and agency, where he had the chance to work with brands such as Rolex, Nike, and Cuisinart. Gabriel is celebrated for his unique style that blends atmospheric imagery with emotional depth, which shines through in his films, TV shows, and commercials. With a strong background in both fine arts and film, he earned degrees from Columbia College Chicago and Senac University in São Paulo and now calls Chicago home.

The award from the Illinois Arts Council's Creative Accelerator Fund (CAF) was a game-changer for Gabriel, as it provided him with the funds to develop a TV show titled The Art of Madness and a music video for the song "Caught Me" by the local Chicago band Billy Joel Jr. The music video is still in post-production and is scheduled to release later this year. "The support from the Illinois Arts Council is transformative," Gabriel shares. "It allowed me to work with top-notch professionals. Collaborating with talented people in Chicago embodies the innovative spirit and shared passion that define our local film community. This grant empowers me to play a meaningful role in the rich storytelling tapestry that makes our cinema so special."