Honoring Vision & Voice, John W. Graves III

Founder of John Graves Productions and Heres2CoolStuff,

2025 Jasai Awards Honoree

John Graves III of John Graves Productions

From the moment he picked up a mic and stepped onto a stage, Dr. John W. Graves III recognized art as more than a passion, it was his purpose. A Philadelphia native, he completed formal training at Evelyn Graves School of Performing Arts, Freedom Theatre, Wilkes University, West Chester University, and Drexel University, building a foundation in a diverse range of performance disciplines.

By the age of 19 in 2007, he produced his first musical, My Son, My Brother, My Friend, at Freedom Theatre. That same year, he founded John Graves Productions (JGP), a multi faceted arts company that has since produced 4–5 annual productions including plays, musicals, concerts, dance showcases, community workshops and touring productions.

Over nearly two decades, JGP has grown to a creative community of more than 75 singers, actors, dancers, musicians and designers. Their works include original plays like Black Kid Joy and The Perfects, tributes to Black history, concerts like Heart Music and 100 Voices, and family friendly musicals.

In addition, John founded Heres2CoolStuff, an Afrocentric clothing line and cultural retail space that has served Philadelphia for nearly 10 years. Launched in 2015 at 1214 South Street, the shop became a vibrant hub for fashion, community workshops, pop ups, mixers, and empowerment. Though the store will close its doors by the time of this year's Jasai Awards, its legacy remains permanent. Heres2CoolStuff wasn’t just a store, it was a gathering place, a cultural beacon, and a reflection of John's unwavering commitment to uplifting Black identity and creativity through art, style, and space.

Recognized by the city of Philadelphia, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the Governor, John has received awards and citations honoring his creative leadership and community impact.

Upcoming projects include the Peace in the Streets Outdoor Concert & Community Day in July 2025 and the film project Stand Up, Don’t Shoot, slated for Fall 2025 release.

🌟 This August, at the Jasai Awards, we celebrate Dr. John W. Graves III not just for what he’s created, but for the platforms, voices, and futures he’s cultivated in Philadelphia.

John’s journey reminds us that art, at its best, is an act of empowerment.

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