In February 2022, Main Street eater (MST) launched its JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion) Fellowship Program. e fellowship serves as a paid, artistic leadership development program for early-career artists of color. MST’s current Fellows are Nychollete Easter (Directing), Jessica Jaye (Directing), and Nori ach (Stage Management). In connection with the program and to introduce this year’s Fellows to the Houston arts community, MST and its JEDI Council are hosting a free networking event and mixer for Houston artists on Monday, January 8 at 6:30pm at the theater’s Rice Village location, 2540 Times Blvd. Lucille’s will cater the event. The evening will also include a discussion with this season’s Fellows, facilitated by JEDI Council members Brandon Mack and Dabrina Sandifer. Attendees will also learn more about MST’s JEDI Artist Fellowship Program, open to all theater artists of color, and how to apply. The event is open to all Houston artists. About the JEDI Artist Fellowship Program Applicants will submit a resume and portfolio. e selected fellows will be assigned to a production either with the MainStage or the Theater for Youth programs in their area of interest (Directing, Design, or Stage Management) while being given access to additional professional development opportunities within the Main Street theater organization.
As part of the Fellowship cohort, participants will receive hands-on experience and mentorship from accomplished Houstonbased theater professionals. rough this program, Fellows will develop important leadership skills and build a network for their future work. Applications open January 8, 2024. About the MST JEDI Council e JEDI Council consists of a group of four community professionals not connected with Main Street theater who meet monthly with our Executive Artistic Director and our eater for Youth Artistic Director, to advise and assess both situations that may arise with personnel and guide MST toward implementing better practices. ough only a few months old, this Council has already had a profound impact on our operations including their presence and work with artists at first rehearsals and more. The Council is composed of Katricia Lang, Brandon Mack, Dabrina Sandifer, and Gumaro Armando Silva.
About Main Street theater Now in its 48th season, Main Street eater provides theater experiences for all ages. e MainStage produces professional intimate, literary plays for adults and operates under an Actors’ Equity Association union contract; the eater for Youth produces professional, engaging productions based on children’s literature for families and school groups, both in-house and on tour around Texas; and we o er Education and Outreach programs on-site and at satellite locations around the Greater Houston area for youth aged 4 – high school. We work out of 2 facilities: our Rice Village home on Times. Blvd., and as part of the MATCH (Midtown Arts & eater Center Houston) on Main Street.
Main Street eater is a member of theater Communications Group (TCG), the national service organization for not-for-profit theaters, of theater for Young Audiences/USA (formerly ASSITEJ), the world theater network of theater for children and young people, and a founding member of Houston Arts Partners. Main Street eater is funded in part by the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance. Main Street eater is also funded in part by a grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts and the City of Houston through the Houston Arts Alliance. is project is generously funded by the Houston Mayor’s O ce of Cultural A airs, and Mid-America Arts Alliance.
Search our archive of past issues Receive our Latest Updates
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
