the ensemble theatre
ABOUT: The Ensemble Theatre was founded in 1976 by the late George Hawkins to preserve African American artistic expression and enlighten, entertain and enrich a diverse community. Thirty-one years later, the theatre has evolved from a touring company operating from the trunk of Mr. Hawkins’ car to being one of Houston’s finest historical cultural institutions. The Ensemble is one of the only professional theatres in the region dedicated to the production of works portraying the African American experience, the oldest and largest professional African American theatre in the Southwest, and holds the distinction of being one of the nation’s largest African American theatres owning and operating its facility and producing in-house. The Ensemble Theatre has fulfilled and surpassed the vision of its founder, and continues to expand and create innovative programs to bring African American theatre to a myriad of audiences.
The programs and operations of The Ensemble Theatre benefit a multicultural audience that is diverse in age, income, ethnicity, and culture. Its core audience is African American (90%). The Ensemble produces a Mainstage Season of six contemporary and classical works devoted to the portrayal of the African American experience by local and national playwrights and artists. The Ensemble’s Performing Arts Education program provides educational workshops, artist-in-residence experiences, and live performances for students both off-site and at the theatre, and the Young Performers Program offers intensive summer training for youth ages 7 to 17 encompassing instruction in all disciplines of the theatre arts. Through its varied programs, The Ensemble reaches over 60,000 people annually.
The Lobby — The Lee P. Brown Foyer
Reserve our glass-enclosed lobby for your special occasion. Guests will
enjoy the scenic backdrop of midtown’s Metro rail line through the floor-to-ceiling
windows. This venue will accommodate up to 100 guests seated and 200 standing.
The Arena — The Audrey H. Lawson Arena
Theatre
This non-traditional and sensational space is available for stage productions,
spoken word, festive parties and small receptions. This venue will accommodate
up to 80 guests seated and 150 standing.
The Performance Centre– The Performance
Centre
This 6200 sq. ft. venue is wonderful for wedding receptions, stage productions,
galas, fundraisers, parties and much more. The Performance Centre can
accommodate up to 400 guests. This room includes a 40' x 20' dance floor
and a grand piano.
Address:
The Ensemble Theatre
3535 Main Street
Houston TX, 77002
Phone: 713-520-0055
Email: boxoffice@ensemblehouston.com
