ADVISORY, July 29, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --
WHAT: The Ensemble Theatre will host its annual black-tie gala to
recognize and celebrate artists, companies, individuals and
community partners whose unparalleled support enables The
Ensemble to be one of Houston's most coveted cultural
institutional treasures.
WHEN: Friday, August 14, 2009, 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Mayor's Reception, 6:30 PM
Program, Dinner, 7:30 PM
Dancing, 9:30 PM
WHERE: Hilton Americas - Houston, Grand Ballroom, 1600 Lamar
Houston, Texas 77010
WHO: Argentina James, Board Chair and Gala Co-Chair
Hasting Stewart, Board President and Gala Co-Chair
Audrey and Rev. Bill Lawson, Founder's Award Honorees
Mayor Bill White, Individual Partner Honoree
Target, Corporate Partner Honoree
Roger Guenveur Smith, Actor of The Year Honoree
Missouri City Chapter of The Links, Inc. Community Partner
Honoree
Brandon and Jason Dirden, Rising Star Honorees
More than 450 guests
WHY: The Ensemble Theatre is hosting its annual black-tie gala
honoring those who have helped the theatre bring a
successful close to its 32nd season that generated box
office records and critical acclaim despite the economy. The
theatre also enjoys the support of community partners, and
local and nationally acclaimed artists which continues to
fuel its success. With many reasons to celebrate, The
Ensemble leadership will thank and honor the theatre's
"majestic treasures" for their continuous support as they
kick-off the 33rd Season appropriately entitled "Majestic
Treasures." The gala also serves as the theatre's most
profitable and well-attended fundraiser.
AUDIO/VISUALS: 6:30 PM Mayor's Reception
7:45 PM Awards' Presentations
CONTACT: Robert Ross 713-520-0055 or rross@ensemblehouston.com
About The Ensemble Theatre
The mission of The Ensemble Theatre is to preserve African American artistic expression, to enlighten, entertain, and enrich a diverse community. Founded in 1976 by the late George Hawkins, The Ensemble Theatre has brought several generations of African Americans and other theatre patrons into the performance art form. The Ensemble is a 501 (c)(3) theatre that holds the distinction as one of the nation's largest African American theatres which owns and operates its own facility and produces a Mainstage Season of contemporary and classic works devoted to the portrayal of the African American experience by local and national playwrights and artists. In addition, The Ensemble Tour Education Program provides performances for young audiences including schools, community outreach, and training for young artists through The Young Performers Program. The Ensemble, is housed in a $5 million facility, boasts the George Hawkins Mainstage auditorium with seating for 190 patrons, the Audrey Lawson Arena seating up to 125, and a performance hall accommodating up to 500 guests.