Performing Arts

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by Joanna Winters and Marty Beard

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Rated among the top seven ballet companies in the United States, the Houston Ballet tries its legs at every style and genre of dance, and succeeds at most. A Christmas favorite is Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker , which runs for about a month and a half during December and January. Under the direction of internationally noted choreographer Ben Stevenson, the company generally performs at Jones Hall in Wortham Center, downtown at Smith and Texas. Student rush tickets $5; 227-ARTS.

Under the baton of internationally known pianist and conductor Christoph Eschenbach, the Houston Symphony is excellent by professional standards, and its perfectionist conductor would have it no other way. Sometimes criticized for being too conservative or severe, Eschenbach is nevertheless an artist not to be trifled with. Recent distinguished guests include Isaac Stern, Joshua Bell and their likes. Performances are held at Jones Hall in Wortham Center, downtown at Smith and Texas. Student rush $5; 227-ARTS.

Also housed at the Wortham Theater Center is the Houston Grand Opera , graced during their season by famous opera stars such as Samuel Ramey, bass. Highlights this season will include Romeo et Juliet and Puccini's La Boheme . 227-ARTS.

They may not act for profit, but The Alley Theatre , 615 Texas Avenue, enjoys a reputation as Houston's oldest and largest professional theatre company. Always on the cutting edge, they offer the newest plays, reinterpretations of older plays and musical theatre. Example: They put a slightly different spin on Tony Kushner's Angels in America last year, eliminating the "crashing through the roof" segment; Kushner's Slavs! opens on Sept. 8. For tickets, call the box office at 228-8421 and for information call the business office at 228-9341.

For an alternative venue, check out the Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park ( It's that big rusted steel thing on the hill next to the Museum of Natural Science). It shows ballet, symphony, drama, and other performances. All shows are free, but you must go by earlier in the day to reserve seats under the awning (though seating rarely fills up). Bring mosquito repellent and a blanket to sit on.

-- Joanna Winters, Marty Beard

This item appeared in the Features section of the September 1, 1995 issue.

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