The Ensemble Theatre continues its 49th season with a powerful stage adaptation of The Bluest Eye, bringing one of Toni Morrison’s most celebrated and challenging works to Houston audiences. The production is based on Morrison’s 1970 novel, adapted for the stage by Lydia R. Diamond, whose version first premiered at Chicago’s Steppenwolf Theatre Company in 2005.

Widely regarded as a cornerstone of American literature, The Bluest Eye explores enduring themes of race, colorism, identity, trauma, love, and belonging. Set in 1941 in Lorain, Ohio—Morrison’s hometown—the story centers on Pecola, a young Black girl growing up in a society that upholds white features, particularly blue eyes, as the standard of beauty. As Pecola absorbs these messages, she begins to believe that transforming her appearance would change how the world treats her, setting the stage for a deeply moving examination of self-worth and societal harm.

Under the direction of Eileen J. Morris, the Ensemble Theatre’s production leans into the emotional and cultural weight of the story, highlighting how systemic racism shapes personal identity and community survival while also making space for moments of connection, resilience, and humanity.

The cast features Estee Burks, Brittny Bush, Caprice Carter, Timothy Eric, Kiya Green, Rita L. Hughes, Kory LaQuess Pullman, and Alayna Sylvester, bringing Morrison’s layered characters to life through an intimate and thought-provoking theatrical experience.

The Bluest Eye opens Friday, January 23, 2026, and runs through Sunday, February 22, 2026, at The Ensemble Theatre, offering audiences the opportunity to engage with a timeless story that remains strikingly relevant today.