I am one of the few young people you will meet who loves living in Houston. I’m not sure what the problem is, there are plenty of young people in Houston, lots of jobs, great clubs and bars. But maybe they’re missing the part that I love most- culture. Houston has everything that a world class city should have, including cultural steals that smart locals really take advantage of.
Starting early summer the Miller Outdoor Theater plays host to Summer in the Park symphony concerts, played by the fantastic Houston sympony. The theater is a great place to enjoy a concert, come early to get tickets, or take your dog, kids and a picnic blanket to relax on the grassy hill. The symphony series ends with a Fourth of July celebration complete with fireworks and hot dogs. Later in the summer the public is treated to the Houston Shakespeare Festival, three weekends featuring two new plays each year. Last year I saw ‘Taming of the Shrew’ with a little bit of a Texas theme (no change in dialogue, just in accent!) and the year before they put together a fantastic ‘Hamlet’ that had the audience fascinated. This year’s ‘Julius Caesar’ and ‘Cymbeline’ should be well worth the drive to Hermann Park.
If you want year-round access to great culture, try www.artshound.com This website can help you find events in any artistic genre, date or price. It’s a great place to find gallery openings and special showings at places like the Houston Photography Center. Check out the Houston Civic Symphony for four free concerts a year, featuring interesting repertoire played by great amateur musicians of all ages and backgrounds. I especially recommend the ‘cello section!
If your idea of culture is a little less refined, you might want to try local dance halls like Wild West. Cover is cheap earlier in the evening, often free, and free dance lessons are available Sunday nights.
Have a great time in Houston!
