THEATRE + COMEDY

The Ensemble Theatre presents Jitney, by August Wilson.  Directed by Eileen J. Morris. On the George Hawkins Mainstage. Running March 26 – April 24, 2011; Opening Night Media Reception March 31, 2011.

Set in 1977, Jitney tells the story of a group of men in Pittsburgh’s Hill District who drive unlicensed “gypsy” cabs that for years have served as a vital means of transportation for many in Pittsburgh and other urban centers. The men must ban together in their struggle to earn a living and respect as the changing world of urban redevelopment threatens their livelihood with demolition.

They must overcome their personal conflicts to form a sense of solidarity against a backdrop of diminishing opportunities.

R/Drama/Adult Language.

The Ensemble Theatre was founded in 1976 by the late George Hawkins to preserve African American artistic expression and to enlighten, entertain, and enrich a diverse community. The theatre is known as the only professional theatre in its region dedicated to the production of works portraying the African-American experience. In addition to being the oldest and largest professional African-American theatre in the Southwest, it also holds the distinction of being one of the nation's largest African-American theatres that owns and operates its facility with an in-house production team. Board President Emeritus Audrey Lawson led the capital campaign for The Ensemble’s $4.5 million building renovations that concluded in 1997.

The Ensemble Theatre produces a main stage season of contemporary and classic works devoted to the portrayal of the African American experience by local and national playwrights and artists. The theatre’s Performing Arts Education program provides educational workshops, Artist-in-Residence experiences and live performances for students both off-site and at the theatre. Through its varied programs, The Ensemble Theatre benefits an audience and artistic constituency of approximately 65,000 people annually.

A collaborative relationship with the Houston Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) and the Museum of Cultural Arts Houston (MOCAH), as well as, artists John Biggers, Ted Ellis, and Charles Washington has allowed The Ensemble Theatre to expose audiences to some of Houston’s visual arts within the season brochure.

“An extension of visual artistic expression will be spotlighted in our season brochure with images we feel embody the essence of each production,” says Morris. “I appreciate having the opportunity to work with other artists and arts organizations to provide unique experiences for our patrons and subscribers.”

Pictured:  Ernest C. Withers, detail I Am A Man, Sanitation Workers Strike, 1968, The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Museum purchase with funds provided by the African-American Art Advisory Association.