The Alley Theatre has been honored as one of 62 organizations nationwide to receive the prestigious 2024-2025 National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Big Read grant. With $20,000 in funding, this initiative will bring Zora Neale Hurston’s literary masterpiece, Their Eyes Were Watching God, to the forefront of Houston’s cultural dialogue through a city-wide celebration in February and March 2025.

In partnership with Arts Midwest, the NEA Big Read invites communities to explore powerful stories that foster empathy, understanding, and cultural connections through shared reading experiences. For Houston, the selection of Hurston’s novel promises to ignite meaningful conversations around identity, resilience, and self-discovery while amplifying Black voices and experiences.

A Community Rooted in Storytelling

"This grant allows us to spotlight the beauty and strength of Hurston’s work," said Rob Melrose, Alley Theatre’s Artistic Director. "We’re excited to see Houstonians embrace the transformative power of storytelling, and we’re equally thrilled to showcase the impactful work of our new Community Engagement and Inclusion Specialist, Russell Boyd."

Boyd echoed this enthusiasm: "Zora Neale Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God reflects the resilience, beauty, and unique lived experiences of Black Houstonians, especially Black women. Through this program, we’ll collaborate with local Black-owned businesses, creatives, and cultural organizations to bring this story to life while celebrating Houston’s rich heritage."

The NEA Big Read Houston will include an array of workshops, discussions, and artistic programs designed to explore themes of empowerment, cultural preservation, and community triumphs. This initiative not only celebrates literature but also creates a platform for Black artists and storytellers to connect and inspire.

Partnerships That Uplift Houston’s Black Community

Alley Theatre is partnering with prominent local organizations, including The Ensemble Theatre, Freedmen’s Town Museums, Kindred Stories, Kefita Coffee, and the Houston Public Library, among others. These partnerships aim to create immersive and interactive events that highlight the contributions of Black Houstonians to the city’s vibrant arts and cultural scene.

From community book clubs and panel discussions to creative workshops and performances, the program will explore how literature can bridge communities and inspire personal and collective growth. By honoring Hurston’s groundbreaking work, the Alley Theatre continues to foster authentic grassroots relationships that uplift historically underrepresented communities in Houston.

National Recognition for Local Impact

"The NEA Big Read transforms communities through the power of literature," said Dr. Maria Rosario Jackson, Chair of the National Endowment for the Arts. "This year’s grantees, like the Alley Theatre, are creating innovative programs that connect people, spark conversations, and strengthen the fabric of their neighborhoods."

Since its inception in 2006, the NEA Big Read has provided over $25 million in funding to organizations across the country, reaching millions of Americans through its community-driven initiatives.

Torrie Allen, President and CEO of Arts Midwest, added, "We’re thrilled to see the Alley Theatre inspire Houstonians through this program. By uniting people around shared stories, they’re helping to amplify voices that deserve to be heard."

Join the Celebration

Houstonians are invited to immerse themselves in the world of Their Eyes Were Watching God through a range of engaging events. From literary workshops to vibrant community dialogues, the Alley Theatre’s NEA Big Read promises to leave a lasting impact on the city.

To learn more and view a full calendar of events, visit alleytheatre.org/NEA-Big-Read-2025.