The Ensemble Theatre Will Begin Search for New Artistic Director

Producing Artistic Director Marsha Jackson-Randolph to stay through transition

HOUSTON -- The Ensemble Theatre Board President, Argentina M. James, today announced that the theatre will begin a search for a new Artistic Director in June. Producing Artistic Director Marsha Jackson-Randolph, who completed a four-year contract this past December, will continue to provide artistic leadership through the current season, and for the opening of the 2005-2006 Season, during the search for her successor.

James said, “We appreciate the work done by Marsha during her years with The Ensemble and we look forward to having her back as a guest director. The national search for an Artistic Director will begin in June and we plan to have the position filled by November.”

The Ensemble has enjoyed great support during the current 2004-2005 season and is looking forward to even greater success with their upcoming new season. Because of this year’s great line-up which has included “A Pure Gospel Xmas”, “Two Trains Running”, “The Story” and many others, this year’s support has been phenomenal. Currently running is the encore production of the highly acclaimed “Crowns” musical production, directed by Marsha Jackson-Randolph. The new 2005-2006 season lineup scheduled to begin in September will be announced June 1.

Jackson-Randolph commented, “I am proud of where my tenure has positioned the theatre, institutionally and artistically. I leave with deep appreciation for the artists, youth, patrons, supporters and co-workers who have touched my life. With over 25 years experience in this industry, there are immense opportunities before me. I wish only the best for the theatre leadership in their search.”

Founded in 1976 by the late George Hawkins, The Ensemble Theatre has evolved to be the largest African-American professional theatre company in the U.S. that produces in-house and owns its own facility. It is truly one of Houston’s finest historical cultural institutions. The theatre is a non-profit organization that houses three stages located on Main Street in the heart of midtown. Each year the theatre presents a repertoire of critically acclaimed dramas, comedies and musicals that demonstrate the artistic ability of more than 250 professional local, regional and national artists and support staff. The theatre also has an educational touring program and a summer young performers training program. The Ensemble recently celebrated two major milestones: the retirement of its $360,000 debt remaining from its $4.5 million capital campaign, and the dedication of a METRO commuter rail stop named in the theatre’s honor. For more information, please visit the website at www.ensemblehouston.com

Contacts:
inda K. Brown, Media Relations Consultant, Advantage Communications  
(713) 737-8321 or advantcomm@msn.com 

Janette Cosley, Executive Director 
(713) 807-4311 or Jcosley@ensemblehouston.com