Contemplate this impressive structure before you. This is the Wortham Theater Center. It stands as a testament to Houston’s vibrant arts scene and the power of community support.
The Wortham Theater Center officially opened its doors on May 9 1987. The opening performance was Tango Argentino in the Brown Theater. It quickly became a cultural landmark in downtown Houston. Eugene Aubry of Morris Architects designed it. The Wortham Theater Center was built entirely with private funds.
The City of Houston owns the Wortham. Houston First Corporation operates the facility. The center features two main performance spaces. The Brown Theater is the larger venue. It seats 2405 people. The Cullen Theater hosts smaller productions. It seats 1100.
Gus Wortham was a local philanthropist. He founded American General Insurance Company. The Wortham Foundation contributed $20 million to the center’s construction. The center was named in his honor. Over 3500 donors contributed to the project. Nearly 2200 individuals donated $100 or less. The Cullen Foundation gave $7.5 million. The Brown Foundation contributed $6 million.
The Houston Ballet began its residency here on September 2 2987. Janie Parker and Li Cunxin starred in Romeo and Juliet. Houston Grand Opera had its first season on October 15 1987. Plácido Domingo and Mirella Freni performed in Verdi’s Aida.
Look at the glass entry archway. It stands 88-feet tall. The atrium concept was dropped. This was due to Houston’s hot weather and hurricane danger. The archway remained as designed.
Notice the grand staircase. It is actually a bank of escalators. Albert Paley created the illuminated installation surrounding it. The structure was classified as lighting. This avoided artwork committee oversight.
Consider the “frying pan” pods. They are accessible via walkways. These pods allow music to flow. The flow goes into traditionally poor listening areas.
In August 2017 Hurricane Harvey flooded the Wortham Theater Center. The lower levels filled with 12 feet of water. The storm damaged mechanical equipment. It also damaged electrical gear. The center reopened in September 2018.
The Wortham Theater Center is more than just a building. It is a symbol of Houston’s commitment to the arts. It is a place where stories come to life. It is a gathering place for the community. The Wortham continues to inspire and entertain.