THE ENSEMBLE THEATRE

Underwritten by:

By August Wilson

DirecteD By Eileen J. Morris

SEPTEMBER 19 – OCTOBER 18, 2009

B O A R D M E M B E R S A N D E X E C U T I V E S T A F F

Founder The Late George W. Hawkins Officers Argentina M. James ChairHasting Stewart PresidentMicheal J. Helm Immediate Past PresidentVernon Landers 1st Vice PresidentJackie Phillips 2nd Vice PresidentAlaina King Benford SecretaryMary D. Simon TreasurerRaquel A. Bone Assistant TreasurerM. Kaye DeWalt General CounselDeFarris Gooden ChaplainDelores D. Smith Parliamentarian

Audrey Lawson President Emeritus

Board DirectorsCrawford Bunkley, IIIJames CampbellCindy CliffordIris M. CrossDiedra Booker FontaineAudrey GilbreathAnthony W. Hall, Jr. Marian HarperPaula McCann HarrisWinell HerronLynda House-McPetersA. Renee’ LogansKen MiddletonSharon MurphySharon M. OwensPaulette PeoplesBrenda J. PetersPaul-David Van Atta

Board Trustees D’Artagnan BebelTony BlackMildred Ball BrightLora ClemmonsHonorable Garnet ColemanFredrick CooperPercy Creuzot, IIIKaren Ostrum GeorgeDuni HebronHonorable Sheila Jackson LeeC. Mick LewisLeslie MaysTeddy McDavidPatricia Allen McGill Karen ReedVernon RushWanda Thornton-RussellGeorge T. ShipleyDawn UllrichNicole WestKathleen L. WilkesLaureen WishomTony Wyllie

Executive Staff Janette L. Cosley Executive Director

Eileen J. Morris Artistic Director

The mission of The Ensemble Theatre is to preserve African-American artistic expression; to enlighten, entertain and enrich a diverse community.

The Ensemble Theatre3535 Main Street

Houston, TX 77002713-520-0055 (O) • 713-520-1269 (F)

www.ensemblehouston.com

This project is funded in part by a grant from the City of Houston through the Houston Arts Alliance.

This project is supported by a grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts.

TEXASCOMMISSIONONTHE ARTS

The Ensemble Theatre

The mission of The Ensemble Theatre is to preserve African-American artistic expression; to enlighten, entertain and enrich a diverse community.

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. Thirty-two years

later, the theatre has evolved from a touring company operating from

the trunk of Mr. Hawkins’ car to being one of Houston’s finest

historical cultural institutions. The Ensemble is one of a few

professional theatres in the region dedicated to the production of

works portraying the African American experience. It is the oldest

and largest professional African American theatre in the Southwest, it holds the distinction of

being one of the nation’s largest African American theatres owning and operating its facility

and producing in-house. 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 has fulfilled and surpassed the vision of its founder, and continues to expand and

create innovative programs to bring African American theatre to a myriad of audiences.

The programs and operations of The Ensemble Theatre benefit a multicultural audience that

is diverse in age, income, ethnicity, and culture. The Ensemble produces a Mainstage Season

of contemporary and classical works devoted to the portrayal of the African American

experience by local and national playwrights and artists. The Ensemble’s Performing Arts

Education program provides educational workshops, artist-in-residence experiences, and live

performances for students both off-site and at the theatre. Also, the Young Performers Program

offers intensive summer training for youth ages 7 to 17 encompassing instruction in all

disciplines of the theatre arts. Through its varied programs, The Ensemble Theatre benefits

an audience and artistic constituency of approximately 65,000 people annually.

The Ensemble Theatre

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class portfolio as a catalyst for regional,

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A Tons of Sizzle and SeasoningMore than 5,500 tons of extra virgin

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Kedrick Brown Interim Artistic Assistant

Teresa White Artistic Associate

Cassandra Campbell Director of Development

Donald Clemons House Manager

Brenda Wilson Tour Education Coordinator

Alona Hudson Patricia Ewing

Box Office Administrators

Willda Jackson Event Coordinator

Alvin Lakey Maintenance Engineer

Joseph Rivera House Manager

Robert Ross Audience Development Manager

Donna Smith Executive Assistant

Cynthia Thaker Accounting Analyst

Ray Walker Technical Director

The Ensemble Theatre House Rules

Children

Children six years old and older are

permitted at performances when

accompanied by an adult.

No Photographs/Recordings

Taking photographs or operating

any recording device in the

theatre is strictly forbidden.

No Smoking

Smoking is permitted only

outside of the building.

No Late Seating

Due to the intimate size of our theatres,

no late seating will be permitted.

No Food and Beverages

Eating and drinking are not

permitted in the theatre.

Wheelchair Patrons

Please notify the box office when

making your reservation, and

plan to arrive at least 30 minutes

before curtain time.

Special Service for

Hearing-Impaired Patrons

The Ensemble Theatre offers

assistive listening devices for Mainstage

shows, when requested upon making

reservation. A limited reserve

is based on availability.

The Ensemble Theatre Staff

Janette L. Cosley Executive Director

Eileen J. Morris Artistic Director

The Ensemble Theatre

Join Us for Our Discussion and Civic Engagement SeriesTheatre Speaks is a series of discussions and civic engage-ment activity The Ensemble Theatre will offer during its 2009–2010 Season. The series will include workshops, dialogue exchanges, as well as four designated community discussions and a food drive for the homeless.

“Theatre speaks to audiences in ways that raise social consciousness…sometimes theatre speaks through laughter, sometimes theatre speaks through quiet reflective moments, but most times theatre speaks loud and direct to our hearts” says Eileen J. Morris, Artistic Director.

Men’s Forum: Saturday, October 3, 2009, 5:30pm immediately following the matinee performance of Seven Guitars by August Wilson. A discussion about love, relationships, and accountability for one’s actions from the male perspective.

Food Drive: November 1– December 28, 2009 in partnership with SEARCH Homeless Services and Target.

Women of Change: Sunday, February 7, 2010, 5:30pm. A dialogue about societal changes for women since the 1960s.

Y-Diversity: Sunday, April 11, 2010, 5:30pm. A conversation about the views of Generation Y on blended families, race, and social status.

Music and Live Theatre Connect: Sunday, July 4, 2010, 5:30pm, A lesson on the influence of innovative music styles and incorporation into live theatre and musical productions.

THEATRE SPEAKS

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713-520-0055Subscribe online for a discounted rate at www.ensemblehouston.com

T heatre Guild

The Ensemble 2009 – 2010

Dr. Teddy A. McDavid President

Alphonso Delaney1st Vice President

Dr. Dena Downey-Garrett2nd Vice President

Ingrid FaulkRecording Secretary

Rose Mary McGowanAssistant Recording Secretary

Della Harlan Financial Secretary

Aba Gayle Wiley Treasurer

Jane B. MartinAssistant Treasurer

Amelia L. AdamsRuby Harlan AdamsEarline AlexanderGwendolyn A. AmosMable Scott AustinJ. A. BaylisAnna Pearl BarrettBetty BrunoLinda BurksRachel BurrellJanice E. Cassel

Margot Charles Josephine V. DanielsBetty H. DavisFreddie Davis-KinnardSavonya DePlandBrenda F. DoganHelen W. EagletonPaulette EagletonMichele EdwardsMandura EllisBetty ForemanDr. Laurette Blakey FosterGwendolyn C. GabrielJoan L. GoffneyAnne GreauxStephen GreerEva HannahDeborah HawkinsDr. Roscette Lewis HolmesShirley Burks HowardCecelia Graves JacksonMildred A. JacksonBetty JenningsOzell Taylor JohnsonPaula F. JohnsonAnna KirkseyDorothy F. LaBostrieLorine LadetBarbara Lange

Audrey Lawson (Honorary)Bernadette LewisPearl LewisFannie LundyJane B. MartinBeverly J. MaddoxCharlene MillerVanita J. ReedBromley J. OliverMellany W. PatrongDr. Kathy RansonFran RichardsonGenevieve RousseveStephanie M. SandersBobby W. ScottLinda ShankleDr. Forrest D. SmithObelia J. StubblefieldMargie L. TaylorRonald Lee TaylorRuth E. ThorntonArnetta T. VentersMary D. VinesHenri Ann TurnerRev. Darnell L. WalkerHelen M. Ward Margaret WestbrooksRitchie WilsonElizabeth Wright

$100,000 & up

Houston Arts Alliance

$50,000 – $99,999

BP America, Inc. Houston Endowment, Inc.

Sterling Bank Target

$30,000 – $49,999

CenterPoint Energy Houston Independent School District

Shell Oil Company The Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts

$15,000 – $29,999

AVW Audio Visual Solutions Chevron U.S.A. Inc. Continental Airlines

Gilbreath Communications, Inc. H-E-B

Hilton Americas JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.

KRIV-TV Fox 26 & KTXH-TV My 20 McConnell Jones Lanier & Murphy, LLP

NASDAQ OMX/Globe Newswire Panhandle Energy

Pfizer, Inc. Spectra Energy

The Virginia and LE Simmons Foundation

$10,000 – $14,999

Amegy Bank Frenchy’s Chicken

ExxonMobil Greater Houston Convention

& Visitors Bureau

Miller Outdoor Theatre Puddie and James Pitcock

Schlumberger Sermoonjoy Entertainment, Inc.

Southern Union Co-Panhandle Energy SYSCO Corporation

$5,000 – $9,999

African-American News & Issues Andrews Kurth LLP

Anheuser-Busch CAMAC International Corporation

ConocoPhillips Cooper Industries Foundation

Cruise Industry Charitable Foundation The Ensemble Theatre Guild

Friends of The Ensemble Theatre

Fulbright & Jaworski, L.P. John P. McGovern Foundation

Audrey and Rev. William Lawson Janis A. and Kevin W. Lynch Maconda B. O’Connor, Ph.D.

Missouri City Chapter of The Links, Inc. Diana and Charles O’Niell

Brenda J. Peters Pharos Capital Group

Port of Houston Authority Regina J. Rogers

Brian H. Teichman Texas Commission on the Arts

T.J. Ford Foundation True Blue Community Endowment

Valero Refining –Texas, LP Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church

Curtin Winsor, III Merele G. Yarborough

$1,000 – $4,999

AccentureKathleen and Paul M. Anderson

Doug M. AngstromKelly and Samuel Ansley

Beatty Street Properties, Inc.BHP Billiton

Raquel A. BoneRosalyn L. Boyd and Walter Jones

Bracewell & Giuliani, LLPCheryl N. ButlerCamden PartnersRoxann Chargois

Lora and Dr. John B. Clemmons, Jr.Florence G. Cody

Compass BankCooke & Bieler, L.P.

Jane and James G. CrumpDavis Hamilton Jackson

& Associates, L.P.Deloitte & Touche, L.L. P.

Design SourceDMOT Management Group, LLC

Energy Software ConsultantsEnterprise Advisory Services, Inc.

First QuadrantFujitsu Consulting

G&A PartnersGayla and Dr. Donald G. GardnerGeneral Motors Acceptance Corp.

(GMAC)Guaranty Bank

Gulf Coast CFC EmployeesCarolyn and Anthony W. HallWilliam W. Harmon, HCC –

Central College

Micheal J. HelmHMS Host/Houston 8 Team

Houston Astros Baseball ClubHouston ChronicleJMG Developers

Kellogg’s Food Away From HomeMelissa and Bill King

Michael R. KingL&B Realty Advisors, LLP

Alton LaDayVernon Landers

Kenneth LeeLittler Mendelson, P.C.

A. Renee’ LogansMaverick Drum America, Inc.

Memorial HermannBorris L. Miles

Charlotte R. MillerMitsubishi Digital Electronics

America, IncDr. Wanda Mott-Russell

Sharon E. MurphyNeiman Marcus

Museum of Fine Arts, HoustonCarlotta C. Oliver

Julie OliverJacqueline L. Phillips

Pierpont Communications, Inc.Carole Pinkett

Mary and James PrinceRebecca Reyes

Alex Rodriguez, Mercedes BenzScurlock FoundationSDN Advisors LLC

Valerie and Ben SheppardShipley Snell & Montgomery, LLP

Silver Eagle DistributorsMary and Martin Simon

Christine and Michael SmithSpecialty Bindery & Printing

Strake FoundationTexas Comptroller of Public Accounts

Thacker Family Charitable Fundthe Clifford Group, Inc.The Greenspoint Club

Total Premier Services Nigeria, Ltd.Sonya Troullier

Union Pacific RailroadUniversity of Houston Chancellor/

President’s OfficeVictory Capital ManagementNicole C. and Anthony West

T H E E N S E M b l E T H E A T R E

Sponsors and Supporters

Starring Rachel Hemphill Dickson broderick “brod J” Jones

Featuring Wayne DeHart Timothy Eric byron Jacquet

Jordyn lorenz bebe Wilson

Presented by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc.

T H E E N S E M b l E T H E A T R E presents

Lighting Design Eric Marsh

Sound Design Adrian Washington

Stage Manager lee Waddell

Scenic and Property Design James V. Thomas

Costume Design liz Tee

Hair Design Derrick Nash

This project is funded in part by a grant from the City of Houston through the Houston Arts Alliance.

This project is supported by a grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts.

TEXASCOMMISSIONONTHE ARTS

Written byAugust Wilson

Directed byEileen J. Morris

Underwritten by:

August Wilson at The Ensemble Theatre

1987-88 season Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, directed by George Hawkins1994-95 season The Piano Lesson, directed by Claude Purdy1996-97 season Two Trains Running, directed by Alex Morris2001-02 season Fences, directed by George Brock2002-03 season The Piano Lesson, directed by Marsha Jackson Randolph2004-05 season Two Trains Running, directed by Eileen J. Morris2006-07 season Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, directed by Eileen J. Morris2007-08 season Gem of the Ocean, directed by Allie Woods, Jr.2008-09 season Radio Golf, directed by Eileen J. Morris

August Wilson andEileen J. Morris

Cast (in alphabetical order)

Hedley ....................................................................................................................................... Wayne DeHart Vera ........................................................................................................................ Rachel Hemphill DicksonCanewell ...................................................................................................................................... Timothy Eric Red Carter ..................................................................................................................................byron Jacquet Floyd .........................................................................................................................broderick “brod J” Jones Ruby ........................................................................................................................................... Jordyn lorenzlouise ............................................................................................................................................ bebe Wilson

Understudylouise/Vera ............................................................................................................................ Tisha DornVera

T H E E N S E M b l E T H E A T R E presents

Playwright....................................... August WilsonDirector .......................................... Eileen J. Morris Scenic/Property Designer......... James V. Thomas Costume Designer .......................................liz Teelighting Designer ......................................Eric MarshSound Designer/Operator ....Adrian WashingtonHair Designer ....................................Derrick NashChoreographer ......................Myra Jones RomainVocal Coach .................................DuWayne Davis Music Instrument Instructors:Guitar .............................................. Sam AndersonHarmonica ............................................David bornDrums ............................................... Eddie Horton

Ritual Consultant .........................................Ifalade’ Fight Choreographer ................leraldo Anzuldua Dramaturg ...............................Candice Alexander Stage Manager .....................................lee WaddellAsst. Stage Manager ................... Kendrick brownTechnical Director ............................... Ray Walkerlight Operator ..............................Felisia Williams Crew ................................................ .leevester ClayCrew(TSU Intern) ........................... Jason HolmesWardrobe Maintenance ......bernadine Wilturner Carpenter .......................................Paul Thomason Asst. Carpenter ..............................Terren Gamble

Production Staff

Time: 1948Place: Pittsburgh Hill District

Setting: The backyard of a Pittsburgh house.

Act I

Scene I: Afternoon

Scene II: New Day; Early Evening*

Scene III: Next Morning*

Scene IV: Several Hours later, Same Day*

Scene V: Same Day; Evening*

(Fifteen minute intermission)

Act II

Scene I: Next Day; late Morning*

Scene II: Same Day, A Few Hours later*

Scene III: Next Morning*

Scene IV: New Day, late Morning/Afternoon*

Scene V: Same Day, Afternoon*

Scene VI: Same Day, Early Evening*

Scene VII: Mother’s Day, Evening*

Scene VIII: Mother’s Day, Night*

Scene IX: Next Day; Afternoon

Parts of the sound design are from the original Seven Guitars broadway production, courtesy of Dwight Andrews.

*Denotes Flashback Scenes

About the PlaywrightMore than any other writer of his generation, August Wilson transformed contemporary theatre with a unique blend of poetry, music, storytelling and mysticism. His literary legacy is the ten play series, The Pittsburgh Ten Play Cycle, for which he received two Pulitzer Prizes for Drama. His remarkable plays chronicles the African American experience through each decade of the 20th century in terms both universal and intensely personal, weaving the stories of ordinary people and their extraordinary dreams into the social and political fabric that surrounds them. The Ten Play Cycle begins with the 1900s Gem of the Ocean, the 1910s’ Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, the 1920s’ Ma

Rainey’s Black Bottom, the 1930s’ The Piano Lesson, the 1940s’ Seven Guitars, the 1950s’ Fences, the 1960s’ Two Trains Running, the 1970s’ Jitney, the 1980s’ King Hedley II, and the 1990s’ Radio Golf. Growing up in the Hill District of Pittsburgh, Wilson never looked away from the dire realities his people faced in the past, face in the present or will face in the future. He has given us that truth with devastating power. but he creates tragic events with a supple and abiding love. He often rocks his audiences with laughter at the clumsy energies, sardonic ambitions and bustling enterprises of his characters, trying to get along and maybe ahead. Many of August Wilson’s plays were developed at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre Center’s National Playwright Conference and given their premiers at the Yale Repertory Theatre. He has enjoyed an ongoing relationship with several resident theatres amongst them is our very own Ensemble Theatre. Mr. Wilson has won numerous awards, among them two Pulitzer Prizes, for Fences and The Piano Lesson, as well as New York Drama Critics Circle Awards for Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Fences, Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, The Piano Lesson and Two Trains Running. He received a Tony Award for his play Fences. August spoke in public, after an opening or at an awards ceremony; he spoke to the best in everyone listening to him. A quietly enthusiastic man, he smiled his warm smile, focused his eyes ahead of him, pursed his lips a little, and told about the fine things he could see everyone achieving. Everyone felt the warmth of a faithful artist, glowing inside the modesty of a noble gentleman.

Playwright’s NotesDespite my interest in history, I have always been more concerned with culture, and while my plays have an overall historical feel, their settings are fictions, and they are peopled with invented characters whose personal histories fit within the historical context in which they live.

I have tried to extract some measure of truth from their lives as they struggle to remain whole in the face of so many things that threaten to pull them asunder. I am not a historian. I happen to think that the content of my mother’s life-her myths, her superstitions, her prayers, the contents of her pantry, the smell of her kitchen, the song that escaped from her sometimes parched lips, her thoughtful repose and pregnant laughter-are all worthy of art.

Hence, Seven Guitars. August Wilson 1995

About the PlayIt is the spring of 1948. In the still cool evenings of Pittsburgh’s Hill district, familiar sounds fill the air. A rooster crows. Screen doors slam. The laughter of friends gathered for a backyard card game rises just above the wail of a mother who has lost her son. And there’s the sound of the blues, played and sung by young men and women with little more than a guitar in their hands and a dream in their hearts. August Wilson’s Seven Guitars is the sixth chapter in his continuing theatrical saga that explores the hope, heartbreak, and heritage of the African-American experience in the twentieth century. The story follows a small group of friends who gather following the untimely death of Floyd “Schoolboy” barton, a local blues guitarist on the edge of stardom. Together, they reminisce about his short life and discover the unspoken passions and undying spirit that live within each of them.

About the DirectorEileen J. Morris is a director, actress and educator. She worked closely with the founder of The Ensemble Theatre, George W. Hawkins, from 1982 until his death in 1990. From 1990 to 1999, she served as the The Ensemble’s artistic director. She left Houston in 1999 to work with the University of Pittsburgh’s black theatre company, Kuntu Repertory Theatre under the direction of Dr. Vernell A. lillie. She has served on several boards and panels during her 30 years as an artist and has held the offices of president, immediate past president, vice-president and secretary with the national organization, black Theatre Network from 1994–2004. She has also served on the board for the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Alliance and

Xpressions Dance Company. She has served on panels with the Cultural Arts Council of Houston, Harris County; Pennsylvania Council on the Arts; the Heinz Foundation; the Multi-Cultural Arts Council of Pittsburgh; Pittsburgh Foundation High School Arts Scholarship Committee; Pro Arts; the National Endowment for the Arts, and Theatre Communications Group. She has developed collaborations with the August Wilson Center for African American Culture in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston; the Alley Theatre; lone Star Community College; and the Houston Independent School District. As artistic director, she has produced over 72 productions, which include four world premieres and 50 regional premieres. In 2007, The Ensemble Theatre was named best Theatre by the Houston Press and 2007 best Showcase for African American Actors by the Ultimate Section of the Houston Chronicle. The Ensemble Theatre also presented two out of the 10 best plays named by the Houston Chronicle as the best of Houston Theatre 2008. Eileen, along with Audrey lawson, president emeritus, was instrumental in initiating the Young Performers’ program

— an educational training program for youth ages 7 to 17 that addresses the collaboration of art and life skills. This program has now reached over 4,000 youth who have gone on to have careers on broadway, and in other areas such as law, medicine, education, community and politics, that allow them to use their early learned theatre techniques in their suggested fields. Her directing credits include Livin’ Fat, The Man Who Saved New Orleans, August Wilson’s Radio Golf, Ashes to Africa, Sty of the Blind Pig (Giorgee Award winner for best Production in 2008, and recently performed at the National black Theatre Festival in Winston Salem, North Carolina), and Blue at The Ensemble Theatre. In Pittsburgh at New Horizon Theatre (Onyx Award for best Director by the African American Council on the Arts in 2004), Christmas is Comin’ Uptown, Joe Turner’s Come and Gone at The Ensemble Theatre and at the Pittsburgh Playwright’s Theatre (best Director mention from the Pittsburgh Post Gazette), American Menu, Crumbs From the Table of Joy, The Dance on Widow’s Row, Get Ready, Dancing on Moonlight at Pittsburgh’s New Horizon Theatre, Jonathan, Fences (best Director from the African American Council on the Arts in 2005), Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom at Pittsburgh Playwright’s Theatre, A Love Song for Mumia, Murderer on the Hill District, Liftin,’ Flyin’ West at the Kuntu Repertory Theatre and A Black History Celebration, featuring Irma P. Hall, at Pittsburgh’s City Theatre. Eileen enjoys all aspects of the art — because art is and breathes life.

Director’s NotesIn Seven Guitars, August Wilson has provided us with perhaps the most enigmatic of his ten play cycle of plays, as it is the most lyrical, insightful prose opera and a bawdy murder mystery told in flashback. August Wilson has often been quoted as saying that all of his characterizations come from blues lyrics — a style of African American music that transverses a wide range of emotions and musical elements creating songs whose verses lament injustice or express longing for a better life and money that can also celebrate pleasure and success.

Seven Guitars provides us with a montage of mystery, folksy humor, homespun philosophy all deliciously sprinkled with ritual, music, and a joy for living and experiencing.

One of the things that we love about August Wilson is his passion and richness for storytelling and how he reaches deep into his well-spring of prose to share and contribute the stories that he wanted to tell. Stories that are reflective of our African heritage, reminisce of our families, and profoundly engaging stories that stir up memories that spring forth inspiration. The Ensemble Theatre is happy to continue producing the August Wilson ten play cycle — hence, Seven Guitars.

About the Cast(in alphabetical order)

Wayne DeHart (Hedley) is in his 28th year of involvement with The Ensemble Theatre as a director; actor and/or sound designer. Seven Guitars will be the sixth August Wilson production he has appeared in. Mr. DeHart recently garnered awards for best Supporting Actor in last season’s Radio Golf for the role of Elder barlow, and best Actor for his portrayal of Arthur Prejean in The Man Who Saved New Orleans. He is also in process of directing the world premiere of The Angola 3. His directing credits include One Monkey Don’t Stop No Show, A Lesson Before Dying, Daytrips, Sundown Names and Dance on Widow’s Row. Wayne was last seen on the Ensemble stage as “Doc” in Sty of the Blind Pig, “bynum” in Joe Turner’s Come & Gone, and as “Memphis” in Two Trains Running and he recently performed in Driving Miss Daisy with the A.D. Players. He

continues his involvement with The buffalo Soldiers Museum as well as The Silver House Theatre and Mountaintop Production’s Camp logan, which is now in its 16th year of touring.

Rachel Hemphill Dickson (Vera) is excited to be back with the family at The Ensemble Theatre. You may have also seen her on this stage in The Man Who Saved New Orleans, Joe Turners Come and Gone, Waitin’ to End Hell, Ashes to Africa, The Story, From the Mississippi Delta, Harlem After Hours, Checkmates, The Drums of Sweetwater, Tap Dance Kid, The Trial of One Short Sighted Black Woman versus Safreeta Mae and Mammy Louise. Some of her other stage credits include The Toys Take Over Christmas, Harriet Tubman’s Freedom Train, Medea, An American Daughter, Two Gentleman of Verona, Tartuffe, The Courage of Many Kate Brown, Sin, Debutante Ball, Roll of Thunder-Hear my Cry, The Art of Dining, Salome, Flyin’ West, Light in the Village, Twelfth Night, and Coriolanus. She has numerous voice-over and on-camera credits to her name including work for Shell, Waste Management, The

Federal bureau of Investigations, Kentucky Fried Chicken Restaurant, and 9-1-1 Call Centers. Rachel currently teaches theater at Prairie View A&M University and is an adjunct in theatre at University of Houston-Downtown. While Rachel has executed many of the areas in the theater including touring/outreach coordinator, producer, box office, stage management, board operator, lighting tech, prop mistress and costume design, she has a passion for directing. She attributes her joy in all her work to her lovely family and looks forward to seeing you all back for American Menu.

Do what you do out of lOVE not fear There are only two emotions –you choose– HE did

Timothy Eric (Canewell) is delighted to be performing at The Ensemble Theatre again. He has been seen in The Ensemble’s recent productions of August Wilson’s Gem of the Ocean, Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, Two Trains Running, Piano Lesson, and in Joseph A. Walker’s The River Niger. Most recently at The Ensemble he was seen in Sty of the Blind Pig. He has performed in the Alley Theatre’s productions of Of Mice and Men and One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. He was seen in Stages Repertory Theatre’s productions of Andrew bovell’s Speaking In Tongues and Orange Flower Water. At Houston’s Main Street Theatre, Tim performed in Law’s of Storms and Intimate Apparel. He has traveled with the national touring production of Celeste bedford-Walker’s Camp Logan and the international tours of Thomas Meloncon’s Diary of a Black Man and Whatever

Happened to Black Love? He received his bachelor of fine arts from Texas Southern University and is presently working on his M.A. in Radio, Television, and Film at Texas Southern. Tim is a very proud member of Actor’s Equity since 2000.

Byron Jacquet (Red Carter) is a long-time member of The Ensemble Theatre and his many credits include Livin Fat’, The Man Who Saved New Orleans, Blue, Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, Short Eyes, A Soldier’s Play, Two Trains Running, Johnny B. Goode and Distant Voices. He has performed in the touring productions of The Magic Story Maker, Brer Rabbit and Wiley and the Hairy Man. byron has also performed at Stages Theatre, appearing in The Courage of Mandy Kate Brown; The Alley Theatre in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Of Mice and Men and most recently in I, Barbara Jordan; in film and television in Red Ink and American Gigolo; and several industrial films. byron attended the University of Houston and the Writer’s Clinic, Inc.

About the Cast(in alphabetical order)

Broderick Jones (Floyd) is a native Houstonian and long-time member of the Houston theatre community. He has performed in several of The Ensemble Theatre mainstage shows including Radio Golf, Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, Get Ready, Sparkle, In Walks Ed, Sundown Names Nightgone Thangs, That Serious He-Man Ball, Piano Lesson, Gospel at Colonus, Black Nativity, Harlem After Hours, Christmas Up In Harlem, and Ashes to Africa. brod J.was last seen in The Ensemble’s production of Thomas Meloncon’s The Man Who Saved New Orleans. He was a principle character in several touring gospel productions such as Laura Mae Lord Have Mercy and The Streets Can’t Have My Boys, both produced by the Master Theatre Company. In addition, he performed in the Alley Theatres’ touring production of I Barbara Jordan. He is also an Encore Theatre Hall of

Fame member, where he’s portrayed diverse characters such as Shakespeare’s Othello, and Romeo in Romeo and Juliet.

Jordyn Lorenz (Ruby) has appeared at The Ensemble as Marta Henderson in Ashes to Africa, laTonya Dinkins in Blue and beneatha in A Raisin in the Sun, for which she won the Giorgee Award for best Supporting Actress. Jordyn has performed in a number of plays throughout Houston including Romeo & Juliet, The Jukebox and How ‘Bout That, at venues such as the Encore Theatre, HCC’s Heinen Theatre and Harvest Time Church. While building her career on stage she has been busy with film projects as writer, producer and actress. Jordyn currently teaches communication at HCC, Stafford and in the School of business at U of H Downtown. learn more about Jordyn at www.jordynlorenz.com.

Bebe Wilson (Louise) has been active throughout the Houston theatre community since moving from her native home of louisiana. bebe last performed at The Ensemble Theatre as Mama in Livin Fat’. This marks bebe’s 26th season with The Ensemble where some of her credits include The Man Who Saved New Orleans, One Monkey Don’t Stop No Show, Joe Turner’s Come & Gone, Day Trip, Checkmates, Dance on Widow’s Row, Bourbon at the Border, Indigo Blues, Shakin’ the Mess Outta Misery, Blues for an Alabama Sky, Home and Spunk to name a few. She has performed at the Jewish Community Center in the White Rose Production of Oh My God. bebe’s directorial credits include The Second Princess, Crowns, Shakin’ the Mess Outta Misery, Bourbon at the Border, Christmas Miracle, Grey Panthers, Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry and many others. She dedicates this performance to her wonderful husband for his love and understanding.

About the Understudy(in alphabetical order)

Tisha Conswella Dorn (Louise/Vera) returns to The Ensemble Theatre after a seven year hiatus. During her credited show, Who Killed Hazel Patton, Sing A Christmas Song, Christmas Coming Uptown, Black Nativity, Distant Voices, Shakin the Mess out of Misery as well as numerous children shows. During this summer Young Performers program at The Ensemble, Tisha was voted favorite teacher. She is excited to be back at home with her Ensemble Theatre family and looks forward to many more main stage performances.

A Tribute to Claude Purdy The Ensemble Theatre would like to dedicate this produc-tion to Claude Purdy, the raspy-voiced director and Penumbra Theatre co-founder who was instrumental in the career of August Wilson.

born in lake Charles, lA, Claude Purdy’s skill and artistry as a director lifted August Wilson’s plays to new breathtaking heights, thrilling audiences of all back-grounds, and inspiring the actors to embody the spirit and soul of the characters. He understood instinctively the authenticity of the African American voice, not only its sound and cadence but its source and promise. His decades long association with August Wilson strengthened and deepened the playwright’s voice and his mentorship and support of fellow directors, actors and artists is a permanent part of Wilson’s legacy.

The director stuck by Wilson through the years as the writer’s stature grew, staging many of the playwright’s works in theatres across the nation. In 1990, he mounted Houston’s Alley Theatre production of Wilson’s Joe Turner’s Come And Gone, which marks the first time he and Eileen met. In 1995 he directed The Piano Lesson at The Ensemble Theatre.

An artist and shaman, he conjures a vision and view of America, jazz-like in its splendor, that is simultaneously a celebration and stern rebuke, but ultimately an irrepressible embrace‚ a love supreme. He will be missed.

BOOK NOW!!!The Ensemble can come to

Your School, After-School Program, Church or Community Event!

Wiley & The Hairy ManAdapted by Jack StokesGrades K–8

Like Aesop’s fables, Wiley & The Hairy Man is drawn from native folk wisdom “Outwit the Hairy Man and he won’t scare you again,” says mammy. Trembling, Wiley sets out for the woods, prepared to contact the Hairy Man. He looks fear in the face and outwits it. The adventures are presented in lyric poetry and mime. The actors become the woods, the cabin, and all the props, making Wiley imaginative and easy to mount.

Uncle Remus’ Br’er RabbitAdapted by Ensemble Theatre founder George W. Hawkins from the original Joel Chandler Harris story.Grades K–8

A fun-packed combination of African-American folklore and American popular culture, Br’er Rabbit is family entertainment that focuses on the Golden rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

A Seat for Rosa Written by Von H. Washington, Sr. and edited by Fran L. WashingtonGrades K–12

From the Whole Life Adventures of Sanko and Kiki, A Seat for Rosa gives an account of the life-changing decision of Rosa Parks. This story assures Sanko, who is dealing with a bully on his school bus, to NEVER GIVE UP HIS SEAT!

Freedom is My Middle NameWritten by Lee Hunkins (Booked through Young Audiences)Grades 5–12

Freedom is My Middle Name is a journey through time and space. Stagecoach Mary, an endearing, vibrant and powerful character from African-American history, takes five urban students on a journey back in time. Their first stop is Atlanta, Georgia and the year is 1858. There they meet Preacher Man, a conductor for the underground railroad who uses sermon and song to give escape routes. This jubilant play is filled with magic, excitement and humor.

For more info contact Bebe Wilson, Touring Education Coordinator, by calling 713-807-4317 or email at bwilson@ensemblehouston.com.

Platinum Subscribers Mildred and Willie brightMichael Clark Mary Carolyn ClophusDee ColemanKaren Ostrum and larry GeorgeJerelyn and DeFarris GoodenNaomi HardyMicheal J. Helmbrenda J. Peters and. John S. Chase, Jr.Maude A. JonesVernon landersWilliam and Audrey lawsonEvangeline and G. MackRose Mary McGowanTomiya MelvinDominique and Henry MosleyFred Newhouse (Valero Refining)Sharon Owens (CenterPoint Energy)Diane and John PeavyJaqueline Phillips Puddie and James D. Pitcock, Jr.Sondra and George ShipleyMary and Martin SimonAl and Josephine TervalonDM White Gold Subscribers Access Data Supply Inc.Edward AdamsRuby AdamsDorothy Ashley (A. Mardis Couseling Consultants)Joan and Robert Austin, Sr.Joi beasley (GoGo business Communications)betty blackshireKirk D. bowiebP America, Inc Cynthia Clay briggsErwin brownEarnest l. brown, Jr.Faye b. bryantCrawford bunkley, IIITish busbylynda M. and Alfred J. CallowayJames CannonPaige Cawthon Connie barnaba & Associates, Inc.Eaernestine and Charlie CooperJanette CosleyWalter DavisSandra and Edward DentGloria EllisCatherine FergusonFranklin F. FergusonJohnnie P. and Winfred Frazier

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Wynnette and Donald bondKathy D. boutcheeJanice briceArlette brownTammy buchananAngela and Russell bucknerMalvina and Albert bushCharolette and Enrico CallowayCapital One Nelva CaryJanice CharacterCreaque CharlesCarolyn CodwellCathy ColemanAngela Collinslinda CornettConnie CothranPatsy CravensPam and Chester CrawfordKathy and John CulmerDeatra CyprienJiles Danielsbrenda M. DavisClarenc Davislinnet DeilySonya DennisShadan and Darrell DixonJulie and Ronald DokellSharon and Gill EdwardsAmy EllisPhyllis EllisAnn FinklesteinChandra FordeMark FrankErnestine b. FranklinJohnella FranklinFriends of The EnsembleYvette GarvinHilda GentryChristal Georgelynn GrierCarolyn and John Guess, IVAurdis GuidryTracy GuilloryRonald HammonsStacey and George HanksHelen HannaDebray HardyMary Cathrine HarrisCarole HawkinsKatherine HaynesPercilla and Mark HaysJewel HerveyOretta Hodgebetty and Peter HoffmanSarah HoffmanCeleste Holan

2009–2010 SubscribersWe Appreciate You

2009–2010 SubscribersWe Appreciate You

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Ronald ShellGary SheppardMichele SimpsonNancy SimpsonJacqueline I. SmithRegina SmithRochelle SmithMarvin Sparksbarbara StarkesGlenniece StewartJeantta StriplingJoseph SykesMarsha and Jay TappSherri ThomasIda Thompsonleslie ThompsonAlma l. WalkerDaisy l. and Darnell l. WalkerSamantha A. WalkerAnita WashingtonConstance WhiteAnn and Tracy WhiteheadTamatha Whitlockbennie WilliamsKevin WilliamsPatricia WilliamsAnnette WillisSherri and John WinslowThelma Woodard-JohnsonJo Nell YarbroughFrancene Young Senior / Student SubscribersYvette AbernathyOcena Adamslu Ann AdayDebra AlexanderSarah Alexanderlizie b. AllenMichelle AllenOsby AllenClora Etta Allen-MorrisKrinstina Alsandorbobbie E. AmmonsSharon E. AmmonsEric AndersonJacqueline and Joseph AndersonJeanette and Otis AndersonJoel AndersonDolly ArdsMarlise ArmstrongPhyllis and Robert Astonbeatrice W. AtkinsonGenell AttawayPamela AuburnRose Austin Abdel baha

Ihsan bahaFreddie M. bakerPamela bakerAntoinette barclayRose barilleauxJennifer barnettRoslyn barnettJewell bassMildred and David baszileGlenda and Randy batesMarion battlesHarriet beardenMargie beeglebonita l. bellTawayna and latavious bellMary belleGloria bennettJennie M. bennettZainabu I. bereteHazel biggersburne blackbrenda bolstonPagewella bonton-RiserMary K. bookerGracie bostonlavernia bowmanlyllyan and Ken bradshawGeorge brewerRoslyn E. briggsZephree brinsonHelen bristorMarie and Raphael broussardEverlene browderCrystal brownJacqueline brownJanice brownluther brownPatricia and blake brownVelma and Stephen brownAnna brunerSheila and Peter bryanRuth M. buffingtonlois and James bullockFrances burford Hilda burkelavonne burkelinda and Miguel burkeZinetta A. burneyCarolyn burnleyRoberta burroughsCharlotte burtonbarbara busbeyCassandra Knox and Michael butlerlynda M. and Alfred J. CallowayCornelius J. CalnanSandra and Edward CampbellRoxanne Cargill

2009–2010 SubscribersWe Appreciate You

Maurie Carpenterbeula CarringtonSylvia J. CarrollAllene A. CarterPrice CartwrightTristesse CasimierDelores CavilPaige Cawthonlorraine and Robert O. Chamberslinda ChampagneElizabeth ChampsDelores J. Chandlerbrenda ChaversAlthea ChoatesAnnette and Darryl CobbCarolyn and Elvin ColemanVal ColemanMary CollettRozan ColmonAlice ConlonNelda Conner lewisCynthia Conwellbarbara J. CooperMarine CooperEdward CopeQeen E. and Herman CraftCarol J. CraigAudrey CrawfordPatricia and Ronald CrowderKathy and John CulmerMarcia CurryAnna R. Curtisleola CyprienAlice Joseph DabneySavannah and Gerald DanielsArvis Jean Davisbrenda J. DavisEarline DavisEdward DavisEthel DavisPamela and baley DavisRuth S. DavisPatricia DayMarureen DeckardDorothy Denkinslinda S. and Henry DenkinsDeborah and Willie DirdenJohnetta DouglasMeloday DouglasHelen DowGeorgette and Earl DredgeEva DurhamVerna EaglinWillie Early, Jr.betty Edwardsbarbara EllisMerilyn EllisPatricia Erving

Carolyn Evans-Shabazzbrenda Evensonlaoma Fergusonbetty I. FitzgeraldMona and Eugene FogtJane C. FordMattie FordChandra FordeErnestine b. FranklinKathleen and Eugene FranklinRhonda FreemanDorothy GabrielGwendolyn Gaineslinda GallowaySheila GayGloria GendrettM. loretta GentryRob GentryHelen GeorgeShirlaine M. GeorgeYvette Georgelinda and Eddie GibbsNoel GieseckelaTrelle GilesMarcell GlynnMartha Goddardlou and Elliot GouldJanice GrangerHoward GrantWillie D. GrantGenella GrayMarjorie GreenClaronette GreeneFreddie l. GuessAurdis GuidryMonica and Henry Guidrybarbara Guthrielucila and bill HaaseEtta HamiltonMiriam HamiltonRudy HamiltonP.l. HansonFreddie HardyKaye HarperAlice and Alvin Harrisbetty HarrisCheryl and Willie HarrisCherylyn HarrisDorothy Harrislinda HarrisMarie HarrisRose Mary HarrisTommye l. HarrisonPatricia HarroldAiry HattonOctavius HayesMarilyn and Joe HegarNancy b. Henry

Charles HerbertElaine HerronOlivia M. HerveyEtta M. Hilllauretta Mae HillMacel and David Hilliardbetty and Peter Hoffmanlonny HoffmanSarah HoffmanKenneth HoldenTerrell HolidaySandra and Ron Hollowayleocadia HooksJohnnie HornPatricia HoustonDoris HowardCarolyn HughesEmily HumphreyDaralyon and Percy Igbanibelinda Jacksonbeverly JacksonConstance JacksonJeanette Jameslisa Jameslynn H. Jamesbarbara G. JarmonCamilla l. and Edward JeffersonHelen O. JeffersonJoyce and Tracy JemnisonNadine F. JenkinsAyesha Mutope and Caliph JohnsonDelois JohnsonDoris JohnsonElla and Samuel JohnsonGlenda JohnsonJacquelyn and Roy JohnsonJanelle and John Johnsonlinda JohnsonMae JohnsonMaria and Farrell JohnsonPat and Charlie b. JohnsonAmanda JonesAnna M.G. Jonesbarbara Jonesbetty JonesDeborah and Johnny JonesDorothy JonesPyllis JonesSallye M. JonesValeria JonesVeronica and Jessie JonesKechia and Raymond JosephAnnette JoubertMarcia KatzClydell KelleyEmilie KilgoreArtelia KingGloria King

June KitchensWilly Kuehnlinda KyddHerma lathonJulia lawrenceFred lawsonPhilomena D. lawsonlewis lawtonKaren and Raymond leblancPatricia and lewis levyCarolyn McAfee lindeyEdwina lodreebrenda longGeraldine lundfordbarbara Jean MackPatty and bob MahlstedtAudrey and Manny MandelInez ManningShirey and Raphael Mapps, Sr.Pamela MarrsEarline MarshallWilma J. MasonPatricia and Ronald Matthewsbirdola MayesRebecca Mayhornloyce McAfeeCarolyn McCallJanice T. and Adrian McCoyCarolyn McCrayGracie McGheeSherry McGloryElsie McGowanCleo McIntoshlillie M. McIntyreJennifer MeeksShirley MelonsonAmelia and Cleo MetcalfPamela P. MetoyerYvonne Meyerlarnita and bobby MillsMildred and Darryl MillsCatherine MooreJudith MooreThelma and James MorganEileen J. MorrisSelina MorrisFaye J. MoseleyJewell and Pre MossCheryl MossesHastle D. MurrayWillie MurrayToby Myersbettye b. NarcisseRomie NealPauline and Sylvester NewmanCynthia and Rhome NixonPatricia and Harold OdomJerry J. Oliver

Carolyn and Charles O’NealAnn OppmanNina O’QuinnMattie M. OrmanHattie b. Owenslucille OzanTroylene PacePhyllis PalmerWarrenson PayneKaren Pepkinlucille PerkinsNellie Pettislinda G. PhillipsHelena PiersonMary PipkinsDiane Pitchfordlillian and Greyling PoatsElizabeth PolifkaJanet S. PortisMurray PowellMary PradierCamille PrattVeronica Morgan and Jerome PriceDerrell and James PruittAlvetta PryorAmber RamirezQuinelle ReedSandra ReidAlexander RemenchikAnn Reva JacobsonAvis Reynoldsbarbara W. RichardsMarian Richardsonlinda and Warren RiggsDeliah and Frank RobbinsRuthie RobbinsElizabeth Robertslinda W. RobertsDorothy RobinsonEdna RobinsonConnie and leroy RogersMary and brian RollinsMildred RoquemoreJan RoseGenevieve Rousseve laura and John RoweFlora RusseauShirley Russellbetty SandersElsie SandersRachelle SandersCharles Sappbernice and Harry SatterwhiteGwendolyn and David ScottIda M. ScottJudith ScrantonAudrey SealsJanice M. Sexton

Deborah SharpJackie and larry ShawValerie and ben Sheppardlinda SiemersDouglas M. SimmonsDeborah Simmons JohnsonMaudell SimonAngela Sinegalbarbara and Harold SkjonsbyAsha Smithbarbara J. SmithCorine SmithEmily A. Smithloretta l. SmithRoland Smithlarry Snowbeatric SowellSharon and Al SpinksIrma Jean StaffordSharyn Stansbury-PinkettNorma and byron StarlingRose StarlingCarl StephensDiana StevensonRenee StewartSylvia Stewartleronia and Flamingo StringfellowPatsy Strong-MilesJeanette S. StylesRoger SwiftMalcolm SykesMarsha and Jay TappDoretta TaylorHarold E. TaylorMargie l. and Ronald l. TaylorSylvia TeagueShirley C. and Pervis ThomasDedreil ThompsonJames P. ThompsonMary and lionel ThompsonHazel ThorpeDorothy TillmonJoAnne ToliverCharlotte and Jay Tribblelinda and Arthur TrippletteHenri TurnerWendy Van SyckleMaggie Vaughnerbobbie and Hilton VerrettPaulette WagnerElizabeth and Stanley WalkerPaulette and Arthur WalkerGlenda WallAnita Pearrie WallaceMary WardJean WareYolanda J. WarrenHelen R. Washingron

2009–2010 SubscribersWe Appreciate You

2009–2010 SubscribersWe Appreciate You

Anne WashingtonFreddye C. WatsonAriel WeaverTandelyn WeaverShirley WebberHeslip E. WebsterArnell WellsEarnestine M. WellsMarian WesleyTommie M. WestPeter WestonAnnie P. WhiteCarolynne M. and Douglas C. WhiteDM WhiteSheila WhiteEarlie Whiteheadletitia WhittingtonGeorgia WigginsKatherine WilcoxKathleen WileyEdwina Wilksbetty J. and Edmond C. WilliamsDeborah WilliamsGloria WilliamsHazel WilliamsJean WilliamsKevin WilliamsMargaret Johnson WilliamsOvida WilliamsRonald WilliamsSandra WilliamsToni and Kalvin Williamsbelton Winfieldbilal WinfieldKwame WinfieldEvelyn WisenbergDerrlene Woodsbarbara WoolhandlerDebra and Herman WrightDola YoungFlora YoungFlora and David YoungJudy and Joe Young Triple Play Subscribers Noel AlexanderNelson AnthonyJoan batieDebra bonton RossChandra bradySue and bob burlesonMilli burtonCarolyn Ashe and Marvin butlerPeggie CainFaye CalhounMary Dunn Chatmanleonard Cherry

City of Houston Convention & Entertainment Departmentbethany ClarksonNicole ColemanConocoPhillipsContinental Airlines Greta CoreathersAngela CoxDiana CrossChristina and bryan CrowderTracy and Eric DarganAndrea DavisMartha DavisDelta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. -Suburban Houston Fort bendRachel DicksonVivian DirdenVanessa and Aaron DuncanCynthia EdwardsExxonMobilDiana FallisGigi FonteneauxFriends of The EnsembleFredricka F. GantJeri and Norris GardnerAlice GatlingMiriam Gibson Gilbreath Communications, Inc. linda GilliamGail F. GilliardGlobal Energy USA, Inc.Sandra Gloverlynn GordonNeal GormanErnest Gray Greater Houston Convention & Visitors bureauMonica and Henry GuidryAnthony W. Hall, Jr.Jeannette HallerHilton Americas Wallace HoneywellPat D. HowardAlona Hudson James Simmons & Associatesbetty H. JohnsonJanelle and John JohnsonRhenel JohnsonIsabella JonesSharon D. JonesVictoria and Gregory KylesFrederick lee lawsonWilliam and Audrey lawsonElmer ledesmaShirley leonardEleanor D. lloydClarice lowe

Glenda ManningMcConnell, Jones, lanier, & Murphy, llPJanice T. and Adrian McCoyEmily M. NelmsKarisue NelsonVeronica OdomOfili OkechukwuMarianne and Michael O’RourkeElizabeth OwensKendric Owensbrenda J. PetersAlthea Phillips-EdwardsKurchelle PiccoloMargie PichonCamelita PickensPolo Signature Restaurant Port of Houston AuthorityKim RenteriaDelores SaddlerPaula Saizanbernice and Harry SatterwhiteSchlumberger Gail and Ron SchutzAlisha ScottHope and leon ScottReid SelfPatricia SewingDianne ShakesniderDiane ShephardKaren ShouseDelores and Eugene SmithDonna SmithJane and Irv SmithRhonda SmithSouthern Union/Panhandle EnergyValencia StephensIda StraditGenea and Tony TaftGloria D. Tapscottbetty Taylor ThompsonCynthia ThakerJames P. ThompsonDemetria Tricelisa TurnerPamela UlmerClara UnderwoodElizabeth and Stanley WalkerAnne Washington Wheeler Avenue baptist ChurchAlana WhitakerMary Ellen and Tom WhitworthAba Gayle Wileylinda Woods WilsonAllie Woods, Sr.Carmen WrightDebra and Herman Wright

Rated “Excellent” by ZagatOutstanding Wine List award 2008 & 2009 by the Wine Spectator Magazine Happy hour Monday thru Thursday, 5 to 7

Hours of Operation

Lunch: Monday – Friday 11am to 2pm

Dinner: Monday – Thursday 5pm to 10pmFriday – Saturday 5pm to 11pm

3722 MAIN STREET AT W. ALABAMA • HOUSTON, TX 77002 • TEL 713.807.0090 • FAX 713.807.0095

The Ensemble Theatre patrons receive a 20% discount for before and after the show!

The Ensemble Theatre’s

Wish List13” TV with DVD Player Combo for Presentations

Dragon Naturally Speaking 10, Speed Recognition Software

laptop Computer with External Speaker for Presentations (4Gb mem/300Gb disk space)

Portable Stereo/CD System

Walkie Talkie (2) – Motorola ClS1410

If you or your company wishes to donate the listed items to The Ensemble Theatre please call Cassandra Campbell, Development Director at 713-807-4306.

Looking for positive, fun activities for your young person during spring break?

Young Performers Program 2010sign up your young person now!

Contact: Teresa White, Artistic Associate (713)807-4309 or twhite@ensemblehouston.com

Spring Break Session: March 15 –19, 2010

Ages 6 –17

2009-2010 Ensemble Theatre Production Schedule

Sat. Sept. 19 8:00 pmSun. Sept. 20 3:00 pmWed. Sept. 23 7:30 pmThur. Sept. 24 7:30 pmFri. Sept. 25 8:00 pmSat. Sept. 26 2:00 pmSat. Sept. 26 8:00 pmSun. Sept. 27 3:00 pm

Thur. Oct. 1 7:30 pmFri. Oct. 2 8:00 pmSat. Oct. 3 2:00 pmSat. Oct. 3 8:00 pmSun. Oct. 4 3:00 pmThur. Oct. 8 7:30 pmFri. Oct. 9 8:00 pmSat. Oct. 10 2:00 pm

Sat. Oct. 10 8:00 pmSun. Oct. 11 3:00 pmThur. Oct. 15 7:30 pmFri. Oct. 16 8:00 pmSat. Oct. 17 2:00 pmSat. Oct. 17 8:00 pmSun. Oct. 18 3:00 pm

Seven Guitars, by August Wilson PG

Previews: Sept. 19 – Sept. 23, 2009 Runs: Sept. 19 – Oct. 18, 2009

Sat. Nov. 21 8:00 pmSun. Nov. 22 3:00 pmWed. Nov. 25 7:30 pmFri. Nov. 27 8:00 pmSat. Nov. 28 2:00 pmSat. Nov. 28 8:00 pmSun. Nov. 29 3:00 pmThur. Dec. 3 7:30 pmFri. Dec. 4 8:00 pm

Sat. Dec. 5 2:00 pmSat. Dec. 5 8:00 pmSun. Dec. 6 3:00 pmThur. Dec. 10 7:30 pmFri. Dec. 11 8:00 pmSat. Dec. 12 2:00 pmSat. Dec. 12 8:00 pmSun. Dec. 13 3:00 pmThur. Dec. 17 7:30 pm

Fri. Dec. 18 8:00 pmSat. Dec. 19 2:00 pmSat. Dec. 19 8:00 pmSun. Dec. 20 3:00 pmSat. Dec. 26 2:00 pmSat. Dec. 26 8:00 pmSun. Dec. 27 3:00 pm

Christmas with Great Aunt, by Thomas Meloncon G/Musical

Previews: Nov. 21 – Nov. 25, 2009 Runs: Nov. 21 – Dec. 27, 2009

Sat. Jan. 30 8:00 pmSun. Jan. 31 3:00 pmWed. Feb. 3 7:30 pmThur. Feb. 4 7:30 pmFri. Feb. 5 8:00 pmSat. Feb. 6 2:00 pmSat. Feb. 6 8:00 pmSun. Feb. 7 3:00 pm

Thur. Feb. 11 7:30 pmFri. Feb. 12 8:00 pmSat. Feb. 13 2:00 pmSat. Feb. 13 8:00 pmSun. Feb. 14 3:00 pmThur. Feb. 18 7:30 pmFri. Feb. 19 8:00 pmSat. Feb. 20 2:00 pm

Sat. Feb. 20 8:00 pmSun. Feb. 21 3:00 pmThur. Feb. 25 7:30 pmFri. Feb. 26 8:00 pmSat. Feb. 27 2:00 pmSat. Feb. 27 8:00 pmSun. Feb. 28 3:00 pm

American Menu, by Don Wilson Glenn PG/Regional Premiere

Previews: Jan. 30 – Feb. 3, 2010 Runs: Jan. 30 – Feb. 28, 2010

2009-2010 Ensemble Theatre Production Schedule

Sat. Apr. 3 8:00 pmSun. Apr. 4 3:00 pmWed. Apr. 7 7:30 pmThur. Apr. 8 7:30 pmFri. Apr. 9 8:00 pmSat. Apr. 10 2:00 pmSat. Apr. 10 8:00 pmSun. Apr. 11 3:00 pm

Thur. Apr. 15 7:30 pmFri. Apr. 16 8:00 pmSat. Apr. 17 2:00 pmSat. Apr. 17 8:00 pmSun. Apr. 18 3:00 pmThur. Apr. 22 7:30 pmFri. Apr. 23 8:00 pmSat. Apr. 24 2:00 pm

Sat. Apr. 24 8:00 pmSun. Apr. 25 3:00 pmThur. Apr. 29 7:30 pmFri. Apr. 30 8:00 pmSat. May 1 2:00 pmSat. May 1 8:00 pmSun. May 2 3:00 pm

Stick Fly, by Lydia Diamond R/Adult language

Previews: April 3 – April 7, 2010 Runs: April 3 – May 2, 2010

Sat. June 19 8:00 pmSun. June 20 3:00 pmWed. June 23 7:30 pmThur. June 24 7:30 pmFri. June 25 8:00 pmSat. June 26 2:00 pmSat. June 26 8:00 pmSun. June 27 3:00 pmThur. July 1 7:30 pmFri. July 2 8:00 pm

Sat. July 3 2:00 pmSat. July 3 8:00 pmSun. July 4 3:00 pmThur. July 8 7:30 pmFri. July 9 8:00 pmSat. July 10 2:00 pmSat. July 10 8:00 pmSun. July 11 3:00 pmThur. July 15 7:30 pmFri. July 16 8:00 pm

Sat. July 17 2:00 pmSat. July 17 8:00 pmSun. July 18 3:00 pmThur. July 22 7:30 pmFri. July 23 8:00 pmSat. July 24 2:00 pmSat. July 24 8:00 pmSun. July 25 3:00 pm

Five Guys Named Moe, by Clarke Peters PG/Musical

Previews: June 19 – June 23, 2010 Runs: June 19 – July 25, 2010

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