HOUSTON, June 1, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- The Ensemble Theatre (TET) proudly announces its new 2005-2006 Season, "A Season of Brilliance." The new Season will present and offer diverse theatrical works-from classic to contemporary dramas, musicals and satiric comedy; and will reflect intensely human dramas, vivid and heartfelt stories of triumph over odds, and the transcendent and radiant power of African American music from "Gospel to R&B."
Season highlights will include six wonderful productions. The staging of 'A Lesson Before Dying,' written by Romulus Linney, is a tender portrayal of a young black man wrongly placed on death row and the struggles he endures. Reflections on brilliant music and holiday joy will return with an encore performance of Leslie Dockery & David A. Tobin's smash hit, 'A Pure Gospel Christmas.' The Ensemble will celebrate "Black History Month" with a moving story that delves into the life of a black family who moves north when their lives are touched by racism; 'Color Me Dark' reflects on how even our young possess the power and possibility of healing and overcoming prejudice. This "Black History Month" production is a play commissioned by The Kennedy Center and an adaptation by Jerome Hairston. With 'Waitin' 2 End Hell' by William a. Parker, The Ensemble dares to offer a thought-provoking new drama which offers a man's searing perspective on America's number one domestic topic, marriage.
An encore presentation of George C. Wolfe's priceless satire 'The Colored Museum' focuses on the contradictions of living black in America. Our final production will celebrate the brilliance of black music with 'Sparkle,' adapted by Walter Dallas from the popular move theatre classic by Joel Schumacher; with the award-winning score popularized by Aretha Franklin. 'Sparkle' captures the story of two sisters who pursue a rocky path towards music stardom.
"A Season of Brilliance" promises to be entertaining and exciting for all. The public and TET subscribers are invited to call (713) 520-0055 for additional information.
Founded in 1976 by the late George Hawkins, The Ensemble Theatre has evolved to be the largest African-American professional theatre company in the U.S. that produces in-house and owns its own facility. It is truly one of Houston's finest historical cultural institutions. The theatre is a non-profit organization that houses three stages located on Main Street in the heart of midtown. Each year the theatre presents a repertoire of critically acclaimed dramas, comedies and musicals that demonstrate the artistic ability of more than 250 professional local, regional and national artists and support staff. The theatre also has an educational touring program and a summer young performers training program. The Ensemble celebrated when the theatre celebrated two major milestones: the retirement of its $360,000 debt remaining from its $4.5 million capital campaign, and the dedication of a METRO commuter rail stop named in the theatre's honor. For more information, please visit the website at www.ensemblehouston.com