This was my first time at the Ensemble Theatre, and I am so glad that just as I was reading The Bluest Eye, the play rendition was being premiered. The atmosphere here was very relaxed with so much Black art adorning the walls. There were also affordable concessions (chips, candy bars, and soda) -- all for $3. Before the show started, the Director, Ms Eileen Morris, was so welcoming and acknowledged all who had decided to patronize this production. She made sure to especially acknowledge any folks who had traveled from as far as Norway and as close as Galveston, and any birthdays as well. I must say it was extremely cold in there... I'm assuming b/c of all of the warm stage overhead lights. It wasn't as chilly outside that night either. Nonetheless, th otherwise warm and personableness made for a relaxed and familial atmosphere before we witnessed the retelling of The Bluest Eye, a harrowing and tragically youthful story. I look forward to returning to the Ensemble Theatre to support more of their productions that center Black storytelling and culture. read more

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I'm STILL a subscriber- I absolutely love coming here and enjoy the experience each time. Every season offers different productions that are so interesting and entertaining. This year kicked off with Akeela and the Bee- I never watched the movie but I LOVED this! They also have other events and opportunities which I've attended as well like themed brunches and that was also so fun. I'm so glad I continue to support this amazing theater! #2025BIGBACKAPPROVED read more

The theatre is downtown right next to the Metro trains. When visiting, make sure to arrive very early to find parking. We got there 15 minutes before showtime and the lot was full. Fortunately, there are plenty of side streets and nearby blocks with additional parking. As with most downtown areas, there are some homeless individuals around, but don't let that deter you. Inside, the theatre is well maintained and clean, with snacks and refreshments available for purchase. There really aren't any bad seats, except for the ones on the far right in Row D. I wouldn't choose those again since we missed a few moments of the performance. The play itself was amazing. Raimi, a young man, has an angelic voice that can bring tears to your eyes. The entire cast was excellent, with truly impressive acting. We believe in supporting the arts, and so should you. I'm already looking forward to returning. read more

The Ensemble Theatre - The program - Performing Arts Near Me - Houston, Texas

I've been enjoying various productions since 2007. Take the Soul Train To Christmas raised the bar to a complete new level. I've never seen a bad production at the Ensemble. This current play was fun, energetic, creative, well directed and executed. I loved the cast and the music. I think the entire audience wanted to join in. Off course parking was good, the facilities as always clean, and the food delicious. read more

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The Soul Train Christmas was excellent! The only issue was that there was no soap in the ladies restroom.

The Ensemble Theatre provides a rich tradition, legacy and vision of the late great George W. Hawkins and continues to inspire multicultural audiences from past, present and future. They offer extensive performing arts class for youths and live shows providing up and coming actors/actresses to showcase their talents. The musical production "The Twelve Ways of Christmas" hits home and will have you laughing, crying, smiling and remembering times growing up when life was slower and memories made with family and friends plentiful. The Ensemble Theatre provides incentives and discounts; in addition to a variety options to support becoming a patron of the arts. I recommend one of the Season Ticket packages. The theatre is very family friendly and is a great place to take family and friends. Parking can be limited at times, but there is a METRO light rail that runs every 6 min on weekdays and every 12 minutes on weekends or you can opt for a ride share service. Either way come see a show, you will be truly amazed!!! read more

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There is simply nothing like live performances. Whether it be music or plays, everything seems to come to life. The Ensemble Theatre in Midtown Houston certainly brings out the best in live performances. We attended a Motown Christmas production at that location. The cast were wonderfully talented, the music upbeat, and the performance move along at a breathtaking 90 minute pace. The theater itself is easy to get to and the size of the theater was perfect. It wasn't a cavernous Arena where it's difficult to see what's happening on stage in detail. Nor was it a small nightclub that's more loud than pleasing . It had seating for maybe a couple hundred people it had a professional stage, and the sound system was incredible. This location has a year-long schedule if productions. I highly recommend you catch one of them. read more

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I went to a performance here last night and i just say, this was the easiest theater experience I've encountered in quite a while. Although it's a small venue, it was intimate, very professional and respectful. Because if the size of the venue, i suggest going into the website to check availability as these shows sell out quick! Not sure if you can just walk in and get a seat "johnny on the spot" :) The set was superb and the performance was amazing. I loved the interaction with the audience. There's a small concession counter with light snack items (cookies, chips, can't, sis, water). The cost for each is about $2. There is absolutely no eating in the theater, so either eat before your show starts or get there early to check in and grab a snack. Check in with hand sanitizer, temp check and have your prepaid ticket available to show, grab a program and get ready to see a great show! read more

It's been there for ages and is a well known gem. I remember going there back in the early 1990s when I first started at University of Houston downtown if you love the local arts you'll love this place. read more

This review is twofold Ensemble Theatre and "Paradise Blue" 5. I've attended several events over the years at The Ensemble, a Houston Mainstay. It has been remodeled and is a great venue for truly noteworthy events. The MetroRail light rail station has a platform named ENSEMBLE/HCC in Midtown which passes directly in front of the theatre. There is metered parking on the street on the side and limited free parking in a small lot. The Ensemble's website recently posted "sold out online; call box office for tickets for "Paradise Blue", Saturday matinee on 2.25.2023. So, I left 2 vm, Friday after business hours, hoping to reach someone. Thankfully, their box office responded after hours with 2 voicemails, during a round of phone tag. Shoutout to Cynthia! 3 I purchased 2 seats: B1 and C1 @$40 each flush against the theatre wall. There is NO mention of "OBSTRUCTED VIEW" on website when purchasing tickets. Our 9 seat section alcove has a small stage extension in front of our section and a LARGE wall OBSTRUCTING half the stage. Our dilemma surfaced quickly! We could only see the front of the stage. So while the rest of the audience roared in laughter during the bedroom scenes in middle to rear- we could only listen...... These seats should be removed! Neither the website nor playbill mention cigarette smoking or gun sound. The "Paradise Blue" theatre door had a taped 8 X 11 printout to indicate it. I have asthma. So many have PTSD. Here's a recommendation: Include warnings on theatre website, then we can make informed decisions prior to purchase. read more

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I went to Ensemble Theatre to see one of their plays and I truly enjoyed the experience. The theatre was very organized and had staff to provide you with any additional information you needed. The play was very entertaining and I also enjoyed the set-up of the stage. read more

The Ensemble Theatre - Lobby - Performing Arts Near Me - Houston, Texas

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What did I think of the Ensemble Theatre? In what aspect? 1. Parking? 2. Staff: Professionalism, helpfulness? 3. Seating? 4. Performance? 5. Decore? I.e. the Christmas tree, the backdrop? For capturing the moment/Selfie pics 6. Ease of location to meet the performers and get autographs AND an available marker! (Whose genius/thoughtful idea was that?!) 7. Cleanliness? 8. Ease of finding the front door? 9. Briana Lott STAR of the show? (lol they all did a fantastic job). 10. The band? I was a SPECIAL GUEST of Briana Lott to watch her/the Performance of a Motown Christmas and it was GRRREAT (in my Tony the Tiger voice)!! The cast did an amazing job of singing, dancing and acting throughout the performance. They had the entire audience singing and dancing in our seats right along with them. You could hear audience members say "That's my sooong"! The only thing I didn't like about the show was the end, IT ENDED :( I would also like to give a LOUD stand up applause to the 2 young performers, BRAVO little ones...the girls sang and performed their butts off. If either of them was my daughter, I would have gotten so many evil eyes because I would have constantly yelled "That's my baby!! You see my baby?"in my Gina's from Martin voice. Good luck and God blessings for all performers futures endeavors! 5 stars for my review of The Ensemble Theatre. read more

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Small theater in midtown Houston with adequate parking and NO concessions lol. Had a fantastic time. Part of a birthday present I got spoiled this year . Anyhoo...went to see a musical called a Motown Xmas. I was like what...?! The music, the dancing the acting. My my my I was trying to decide which singer had the best voice etc. Mission impossible. They were all honestly wonderful. I told all my friends about it and asked them to spread the word they wouldn't regret it. Met one of the actors after the show, took pics and thanked him for a wonderful performance. The staff from when you step in to when you leave are courteous professional and there's a sense of pride in them that makes you feel like you're about to embark on something awesome. And it's true. Nothing negative to say. I will ABSOLUTELY go back. Love love love. read more

The Ensemble Theatre - Xmas spirit is upon us lobby of the Ensemble theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Houston, Texas

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We had an incredible evening for our family of 3 last night at this venue. The staff is courteous and professional. The theater is very clean and well keep. The bathrooms are modern clean and well stocked. Concession offerings are good also during intermission. The stage play Love & Southern Discomfort is very well written and the actor's were amazing and available after the show to offer their signed autographs. Worth every penny. Incredible Downtown Houston Night on The Town Experience!! Totally recommend this Theater read more

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Motown Christmas is MAGICAL!! The VOCALS, the dancing and the entire cast rocked the Christmas holiday for me. I cried and got chills from the a cappella renditions of all my childhood favorites. The one detractor was a microphone malfunction that was jarring at times. Loved the show and highly recommend. read more

The Ensemble Theatre - Play Bill - Performing Arts Near Me - Houston, Texas

I remember volunteering at The Ensemble some time ago with a friend, and being given the task of folding programs (it was a single piece of paper). Well, I guess I didn't fold it perfectly, cause one of the people working (or volunteering) there went into a huge rage about it--and when others tried to detail this woman and get her off the subject she would tell them, "NO! NOT until I find out who did this." It was crazy--and it was uncomfortable as it could possibly be while there. Made me wonder if it was because I was the only White volunteer that night (my friend was Black), because it surely seemed that way. Regardless, no matter how many years have passed since this tacky experience, I will always remember The Ensemble and never go back. Sad, too, cause the show was good. Surely, I hope this racist woman has changed her ways....but I don't have much hope that she did. read more

My family and I were surprised w/ tickets to a production at the Ensemble Theatre while visiting Houston. We learned that this is an African-American theatre that was established in the '70's. The production that we saw was titled "School girls," which appeared to be a riff on "mean girls." The entry process was smooth, and we were directed to our seats prior to the opening act - our kids were given front row seats as my son likes the theater. We thought that the actors did a wonderful job, and the production was engaging. Overall, this was a pleasant experience. I was very pleased to see the level of support from the many patrons that attended the show. I would like to go back when I visit Houston again. read more

The Ensemble Theatre - The Ensemble Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Houston, Texas

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This was my first visit to the Ensemble Theater and I must say that it is a hidden treasure. My daughter and I attended a Girl Scout Event: Christmas Is Coming Uptown! The singing was perfect and trust me, I do not like musicals, but this one was very entertaining. The cast is very talented and enthusiastic; capturing the audience attention from beginning to end. The intermission was also not that long, so that was a plus. Every eat in the theater is a perfect seat given that it is a very small and intimate setting. Upon entrance, greeters were handing out playbills. The lobby is very large and impressive, decorated with a beautiful Christmas tree which provided a perfect prop for pictures. The restrooms were very clean and inviting with a pleasant smell. There are two sets of RR, one in the front and one near the Children's Theatre, both were exceptionally clean; toilet seat covers were provided, which is a huge plus for the germaphobics. Exiting the theatre was quick and easy. I will definitely be on the look out for upcoming shows! read more

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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... Today I watched my cousin close out play for the young performers summer workshop... I was very impressed with all the young performers performance... The staff put in quality and time in grooming and guiding the children which was exuberated in the performance... I would highly recommend catching one of the plays at the theater if you have a love for the performing arts. If you have a young person that has an interest in performing this would be a wonderful place to help guide and groom... read more

The Ensemble Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Houston, Texas

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It has been ages since I attended a play at the Ensemble Theater. What should have been a terrific night after seeing an exceptional play was spoiled by unprofessional characters called managers at the Ensemble. First and foremost, buyer beware on the location of the tickets you buy because the Ensemble doesn't have a disclaimer on their website that states that some of their seats have limited viewing. I've seen such warnings on other venders' websites when I've purchased tickets, yet the Ensemble fails to provide such details on their tickets. Addittionally, the Ensemble disregards the thought of discounting limited viewing seats like I've seen on other vendors' websites. Therefore my guests and I were quite surprised to have paid the same price for our tickets, but had a limited view of the entire stage. Two of the three of us had an okay view from the 2nd and 3rd row, stage left, but we had to arch our necks and lift our heads to see certain scenes, so not really okay. However, my cousin on the front row could not see anything. Even when the actors were right in front of her, the height of stage versus her seat was too awkward and high. It's like sitting in front of a tv too long--it starts to hurt, so at intermission (which marked the halfway point of the show), she informed the manager, who seemed considerate and moved all of us to the upper center seats, but they were actually worse. Plus, management failed to find out that there were not three seats together before they moved us, so when we were scrambling at curtain call to find another seat. What's worse is that the the view was much more limited not because of the configiration of the stage or seating, but the people. Where we were seated the second time was not tiered, so we ended up trying to view the play between people's heads. In fact, I know for a fact that these were worse seats because we had two people sit next to us during act 1 and leave, but came back because they stated that there seats were better in the pit versus orchestra area that ended up going to. Luckily (so I thought), someone did not make it back in time before the doors closed at intermission, so I scooted over to an empty seat next to me to allow my couson to see, but I actually had a worse view when I moved. Pretty much gave up on the notion of having a clear view at that point. At the conclusion of the play, my cousin who purchased the tickets for us asked of we had a better view after intermission. When we told her no, she also proclaimed that her view was not improved either. Before we left, she ran into the manager of the Ensemble and mentioned her concerns to her. Do you think that she was concerned?? Not in the least bit. She told her to call her Monday about it, but customer service is not handled the next day--especially if you're in a mangerial role. In fact, the manager incorrectly stated that the website informs patrons of limited viewing seats, but I am telling you, it does not. I was extremely disappointed that our money and time wasn't valued at the Ensemble. I will think twice before I purchase tickets here. If I do, it will be soon as they are available for purchase so I can get the best seat possible for my money. read more

I love coming here for the shows. The cast is always so talented! Before the show, they welcome you and offer beverages, (free or for sale depending on the event), and personally welcome you there. The sets are nicely built and cleverly done, given the size of the stage. The theater is nice and small, which means that you are engulfed into the fictional world of the story, which can sometimes involve audience participation. The ensemble is located on main in midtown but has been around since I was little, so they are all seasoned and well organized, which makes the experience that much better. read more

The Ensemble Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Houston, Texas

While out enjoying the art car parade Saturday, we met Gregory Grant, the house manager of the Ensemble theater. He invited us to come down that night to watch their current play, Detroit '67, and we're really happy we took him up on the invite. The Ensemble is a smaller sized playhouse located in Midtown whose mission is to, "preserve African American artistic Expression and enlighten entertain, and enrich a diverse community" to quote their website. The theme of the play we attended, Detroit '67, aligned with their mission statement as it followed a tight knit group of friends and family struggling with their hopes and ambitions while the city around them erupts into the Detroit race riots of 1967. Set design, direction and acting was all on point, and although a heavy subject matter, they succeeded in injecting lighthearted humor and compelling warmth throughout the show. Also, the entire play is set to the motown chart toppers of the time which made for a great soundtrack. All in all, great play and great change of pace for our Saturday. Having zero expectations walking into the show, we had a wonderful experience. Although very under dressed for the show itself, (just walked out of the art car parade) the staff was very kind and welcoming. We enjoyed the play and would love to come back for their next billing. read more

Went to see "FLY", a portrait of the Tuskegee Airmen and Desegregation of the American Military. The actors were truly entertaining and very gifted in their skill. I enjoyed myself to the point where I had to purchase season tickets. This theatre is truly a Texas Landmark and I encourage you to attend. Support your black owned businesses!!! read more

The Ensemble Theatre - Cast from "FLY" - Performing Arts Near Me - Houston, Texas

I attended an event here that was hosted by Suits for Sons. I was pleasantly surprised. The event was a fund raiser and ran from 6-9 pm. It is a good size facility to host an event or party of about 100-150 people with standing tables and a small area for dancing if there was a desire. There was a bar where you could cater in your own bartender and food. Parking could be a challenge due to it is all on the street. However, I arrived early enough to where I was able to park in front of the establishment. I would consider leasing this place in the future to host an event. read more

What a great experience today celebrating the woman's earth annual brunch! This is the second year in attendance using the ensemble space, and it has been beautiful every time! read more

Saw an amazing play at the Ensemble Theatre. The venue is small and intimate and every seat is a good seat. We saw To Heavy for Your Pocket " and the actors were super talented. There was a chance to meet them after the show. Will be back. read more

I am visiting Houston and came with a family member to see Soulful Sounds of Christmas and it was a fantastic production. The actors have amazing voices and did very well communicating the emotion of the story. Though we were not allowed to enter the theatre until the time we were expecting the show to begin, I did not detract a star because there was only about a 10 minute delay. My only qualm I could say was about the theatre's strict policy on leaving during the show and not being able to enter again until either intermission or until the show is over. They do however state this policy at the beginning of the show to give you time to use the restroom before it begins. All of this to say I would absolutely come back to this theatre to see another production. We had an awesome time. read more

I love plays, and theatrical events, but some how I just can't get into some of the plays hosted here. Don't get me wrong, the actors are great performers, the stage and dialogue are wonderful, I just don't relate to the 3-4 plays that I have seen here. They tend to be ha funny, not ha ha ha funny if you know what I mean. Yes, I'm aware that all plays are not comical, and some have in depth story lines, with other purposes and intentions than to be funny. However, my focus seems to drift off to other places, which only confirms that, I don't find the plays interesting. You have to attend at least one or two for yourself to determine if it is me or the plays, for I know others that love this theatre and all that it represents, I'm just not fond of them. However, I will stress the greatness of the staff, that works here. They are so friendly and attentive, I happened to be 20 minutes late to this last one and the greeter actually walked me back stage, through the theatre to a seat that would not bring attention to my tardiness, and allowed me to sit in until intermission, until I could get to my actual seat. The Ensemble Theatre represents and holds alot of value, to lives of the human race, and the community and inspite of how I feel, I would like to say, Thanks for your generosity, and great humanity to the city, museum, and theater district. read more

My bf got us tickets to go see "Collard Greens and Platanos." Not only was the play entertaining but it was also informative. The actors did a splendid job! You could tell they spent a lot of time rehearsing and preparing for their shows. The Ensemble Theater is a great spot for a date. The place itself has a good number of parking spots near by so you don't have to worry about walking long distances in your cute heels. Bring cash- they sell snacks during intermission and they are $2 each. Yes, a 50 cent bag of chips sells foe $2 each (that would be the only con) read more

The Ensemble Theatre - Platanos y Collard Greens - Performing Arts Near Me - Houston, Texas

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I've been to lots of theaters and this one is very nice for such an intimate venue (about 250 seats)... it's a nice space but no curtain? Okay, whatever. I was there to see a preview of an upcoming play and I was pleasantly surprised about the professionalism of the sound, staging, direction and the quality of the acting, etc. If you ever have the chance to go...it's a must see. read more

I think this is my favorite theater company in town. The performances and production values are just outstanding. I sure wish they could get scripts to match, though. The show I just saw, _From My Hometown_ was thin, thin, thin, scriptwise. I enjoyed it anyway, because the singing, acting, direction sets, EVERYTHING, was just so outstanding, and the script served somewhat adequately to hold the songs together. I wish I could write plays - I'd write them some. Unfortunately, I can't. :-( The train from here stops just a block or so from Hotel Zaza, if you want to eat at Monarch before or after the show. Be sure and check directions and maybe look at some pics on Google first, though - even though the train station is close to Zaza both ways, it's not necessarily obvious which direction to walk by looking - first time I took my own advice I wound up going almost completely around a block I didn't have to go around. read more

The Ensemble Theatre is one of Houston's treasures. An African-American company by heritage and repertoire, the Ensemble is, as you can tell anytime you see a performance, a theatre for all Houstonians. The quality of the work is always first rate, whether it's the Ensemble's mastery of the works of the great American playwright August Wilson (sadly none of his works this season) or the annual summer musical, guaranteed to make you smile and tap your feet. The Ensemble also has a wonderful performance space that is rented out for everything from weddings to performances. We have been proud clients of the Ensemble's Performance Centre since 2006 and could not be happier. The staff is friendly, professional and easy to work with. They (particularly events manager Willda Jackson) will bend over backwards to make your event a success. And the parking is easy...always important in Houston. If you have not been to the Ensemble, go! You won't be disappointed. read more

My friend and her family were watching a Christmas play at the ensemble theater and were nice enough to invite me. I found parking right away on the side street, they also have a lot. We went inside and the show started right on time. The actors were awesome and the stage was decorated beautifully. The theater itself was very cozy. There were small issues with the sound system, but other than that the play went on smoothly. I am glad I found out about this theater because I really enjoyed the play and plan to return. read more

Great place to see a show. It is small and intimate and I don't think there is a bad seat in the house! Acoustics were great. My roommate who is in the Lion King has a show here for 2 nights only. It is called the Heart Cycle. Check it out Mon Aug 6th if you can :) read more

I am usully a big fan of The Ensemble but this year's lineup was not the best. I purchased a subscription and I have walked out of three plays during intermission because the story line was weak and boring. This will be the last season that I will purchase the season pass because I feel it was a waste of money. Also, the box office staff lack professionalism! read more

This theater seems to specialize in African American themed productions. I saw "Collard Greens and Platanos" which had really good acting. It's one of the nicer local theater company facilities in town, which is why I was surprised they didn't use mics! Parking is more than adequate on street or lot. Just make sure you don't get jumped since it's in the bad part of midtown. I wasn't really a fan of the "Collard Greens and Platanos" script because it didn't really focus on a story but more on exposition, history, and issues. Sometimes you just want a good plot ya know? If a play wants to make a statement about society it should be done less blatantly to be more effective. Not sure if this problem was just this particular play or if this is how most the Ensemble's productions go. read more

There's not a bad seat in the house but I would suggest sitting at least 2 rows back from the stage. The theater is very intimate which I love.Plays spill from the stage into the audience. Production is more than I would expect from such a small theatre. New assigned seating is great. The ensemble is now a staple on my entertainment calendar. read more

Very professional theater. I am trying to see entire August Wilson cycle here. Very friendly staff. When I go I know how it feels to be a minority (we're white). Love audiences vocal emotional involvement in plays. Also love that this is one of the few venues where people actually still get dressed up to go out. Now that I understand parking no problems. Small and intimate. Wish more of the Alley Theatre, Stages Theatre, Hobby Center Main Street Theatres crowds discovered this nationally famous theater. Staff very warm and welcoming. During Christmas sat next to board member who we had engaging conversation with during intermission. Then again perhaps Houston Chronicle could also discover it more first. Just saw Ma Rainey's Big Black Bottom and can't stop thinking about it. It was the most emotionally raw play I have ever seen. It may be the best acted, best directed play of ANY kind I have ever seen ANYWHERE. And I was a regular theater goer for 12 years in NYC both on and off Broadway, have seen summer stock in Connecticut, regular at Good Speed and New Haven. Have seen a couple of plays in London, Toronto and my native Pittsburgh (had college apartment in S'Liberty - that's how it's pronounced - near August 's gravesite. I saw Denzel in the lead actor near the end of the play and Morgan Freeman in the old piano player. The male banter is so true to life in any blue collar mill town (white or black) around Pittsburgh-my sister said it reminded her of our late uncles. It's like watching those Final Four commercials with Charles Barkley and Spike Lee. I don't know how actors kept it all together - the audience was really into it. The recent Houston Chronicle review did not do this play justice. Go !rush out now !!!to see it. It's a rare theatrical gem!!!!!!! Houston is so lucky to have Ensemble Theatre that can produce these types of plays. Even the minimalistic stage setting was perfect. read more

Dramatry Spoken Word - Absolutely amazing show last night! The host, Se7en, was hilarious, personable, and gifted! All the poets brought forth their own unique voices and crafted an interesting tapestry of stories. I'll definitely be attending next year. read more

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Wouldn't give any stars, but unfortunately I had to select at least one for the text box to appear. Not sure why tickets have a specific row and number printed on them, if you don't arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of the show, your seats can be given away. REALLY!!!! And Lord forbid if you're 10 minutes late for the start of the show, you can't even enter the auditorium. Will never go back this theater or recommend to anyone. read more