Theater is the oldest form of entertainment invented by mankind. Since its inception, it has gone through a long path of changes, improvements and interpretations. Theater personalities are honored with various awards and the presence of theaters in a city tells about its artistic development. The most famous world theaters are state symbols. They are depicted on banknotes, appreciating their contribution to the development of culture. As for Houston, in terms of theater it is among the leaders in the United States. Houston has a separate Theater District, which is the second largest after New York. The district covers as many as 17 blocks. The city has many independent youth theater groups that creatively develop and support the popularity of this art form. Houston hosts annual theater festivals. Next, we will talk about one of the most famous theaters in Houston, which is located in the open air. Read more on houston-trend.
Houston’s outdoor gem
Miller Outdoor Theatre is a unique place in Houston. This theater combines the appeal of a theatre, Houston charm and the beauty of nature. It is perhaps the most popular place for city residents to relax. From March to October, almost every weekend, you can come here alone, with friends or a loved one, take a blanket, lay it on the lawn and enjoy the spectacle from the stage for free.
The idea of creating an outdoor theater belongs to the wife of the founder of the successful Texas Company, Bessie Taylor Miller. The famous philanthropist dreamed of creating such an institution where absolutely every resident of Houston could come and enjoy performances and productions on the stage. Having influenced a wealthy husband, who influenced the city council, her idea was brought to life in 1928.
The place for the construction of the outdoor theater was chosen very successfully. Hermann Park, where the Miller Outdoor Theatre is located, has a gentle slope, creating a natural bowl for the hall. There is a lot of vegetation around, which creates a cozy atmosphere for outdoor recreation.
The first theater building was developed in a hurry to fulfil Bessie Taylor Miller’s wish as quickly as possible. She was so passionate about her idea that she visited the construction site almost every day to monitor its progress.
Immediately after the opening, local troupes began performing in the theater. As promised by Mrs. Miller, admission was free. Thus, there was no shortage of people who wanted to see the performances. The place in Hermann Park immediately became a favorite location for recreation and leisure for the townspeople.
Theater reconstruction
The rapid construction process and not fully thought-out planning of the theater building forced the city hall to plan a reconstruction of the institution, which needed repairs. This happened in 1968. After the tender was announced and carried out, the architectural firm Eugene Werlin and Associates was entrusted with the work on this project. Having more time to develop a new layout, they created a modern amphitheater that met all the requirements of the time and was equipped with the latest technology. The architect significantly increased the number of seats, successfully thought out the acoustic moments in the open area and planted trees of a certain species for this. Since then, the amphitheater has remained unchanged to this day, except for minor repairs.
A stage for everyone
Miller Outdoor Theatre is located on a 3-hectare site. It can accommodate almost 12 thousand spectators. There are 1,705 seats under a canopy near the stage. The rest are on the slope of the park. The stage measures 19 x 12 meters. The theater has an orchestra pit, dressing rooms and offices and all the associated infrastructure necessary for such an institution. Funding, both at the initial stage and to this day, comes from the city budget, allowing it to remain free for all who wish to visit the institution. The theater also does not disdain donations from benefactors.
The stage is open to all troupes of the city. Those wishing to perform here only need to submit an application to the appropriate structure at the city hall. Thanks to this, the Miller Outdoor Theater repertoire is the most diverse. Throughout the year, one can see classic Shakespearean dramas, Broadway musicals and underground modern productions. There have been cases in the history of the city when opera singers performed on stage and heavy rock sounded just after them. This format is another feature of the Houston theater and it is quite suitable for Houston residents.
Through time: the unity of nature and art
The interesting idea of Mrs. Bessie Taylor Miller continues to live on in the modern world. It would seem that the 1920s with its romantic open-air demonstration areas should have long since faded into oblivion. However, Miller Outdoor Theatre does not agree with this. It does not lose its fans, either among the troupe or among the audience. This is a truly unique place that has managed to functionally combine theatrical art and the beauty of nature. In addition, this place brings theater closer and makes it accessible to everyone. Thanks to these factors, Hermann Park is one of the favorite places to relax for the vast majority of residents and guests of Houston.
