Jackie Taylor, founder and CEO of Black Ensemble Theater, was honored with the Fifth Star Award from the City of Chicago and Allstate Insurance Company, at a ceromony held earlier this evening at Millennium Park. 

Hosted by the Q Brothers, the event featured tribute performances by Black Ensemble Theater and others. 

 “I am honored to be recognized by the City of Chicago with a Fifth Star Award.”, comments Taylor. “Through its 40 years, Black Ensemble Theater has been bringing Chicagoans together, educating its students and working to eradicate racism. We are thrilled to be a part of Chicago’s arts and culture scene and I am proud to be recognized alongside so many Chicago icons.”

 This year the City of Chicago will honor Jackie Taylor along with blues legend Buddy Guy; celebrated photographer Victor Skrebneski; museum founder and educator Carlos Tortolero; and the legendary improv and sketch comedy theater, The Second City and the “Rising Star” youth honoree Joshlyn Camille Lomax.

The third annual Fifth Star Awards celebrates Chicago’s creativity and recognize institutions and individuals who have made significant contributions in arts and culture. For more information on this years recipients visit  www.fifthstarawards.org.