The ExxonMobil Theater District Open House returns March 9, 2026, 11am–4pm, inviting you and your family to experience Houston’s performing arts scene up close. This free celebration features live performances, interactive workshops, and behind-the-scenes moments hosted by the Houston Theater District’s incredible venues and arts organizations.
Come for an hour or stay all day as you explore a diverse lineup of performances and activities. No matter your age, there’s something to discover, interact with, and enjoy.
Click here to plan your visit!
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE HOBBY CENTER
Hobby Center Programs
Location: Zilkha Hall
Hobby Center offers a wide array of performances in Zilkha Hall. Join us for the ExxonMobil Discovery Series featuring educational programming, Houston Is Inspired Series celebrating artists connected to our city, and Arts Partners featuring local organizations.
Noon-12:20 pm – Ars Lyrica Houston in Origenes: Voice and Percussion Through the Ages
A bilingual, festive exploration of music from Latin American and Spanish cultures.
12:30-12:50 pm – Nia’s Daughters Movement Collective in The Fairytale Project
A multimedia performance that follows a family reconnecting with their roots through themes of legacy, love, and cultural pride (Sensory-inclusive performance).
1-1:20 pm – The Ensemble Theatre in Don’t Worry Willy
A school test sparks big feelings as Willy and his classmates use imagination, music, and friendship to face anxiety, celebrate differences, and embrace who they are (Sensory Inclusive Performance).
1:30-1:50 pm – Houston Contemporary Dance Company in Octane and Citizen
Octane is a high-energy dance work that explores cycles of tension and release as bodies connect, separate, and return again in a shared search for balance and connection. Citizen is a vibrant group dance about people supporting one another, finding strength together, and moving forward with hope.
2-2:20 pm – Jakari Sherman in Our Road Home
An interactive rhythmic performance inspired by Houston’s Freedmen’s Town that uses body percussion, movement, and storytelling to explore freedom, resilience, and communal legacy.
2:30-2:50 pm – Urban Souls Dance Company in Truth be Told
A high-energy dance concert that blends contemporary and traditional movement with storytelling to celebrate Black culture, history, and resilience.
Theatre Under The Stars: Showtime at TUTS!
Location: Grand Lobby
Theatre Under The Stars teaching artists and staff offer a lineup of high‑energy, imagination‑boosting sessions designed for young performers and their families. Families will get exclusive early access to purchase tickets for TUTS’ 2026–2027 Mainstage Season, upcoming summer camps, and the student musical production of Hadestown: Teen Edition!
Create & Explore!
Noon, 1pm and 2pm
Body by Broadway!
12:30pm, 1:30pm and 2:30pm
Ongoing Activities
Backstage and On-Stage Tours
Guided tours take visitors from the wings to the spotlight, revealing how productions come together and what it feels like to stand on the stage.
Lexus Lounge
Beginning at noon, the Hobby Center’s venue sponsor, Houston Area Lexus dealers, will offer free popsicles and churros on the patio in front of Zilkha Hall (while supplies last).
Arts and Crafts Station (Founders Club)
A relaxed, creative area where guests can drop in, experiment with simple materials, and make something of their own at whatever pace they like.
DJ and Food Trucks (Zilkha Patio)
Outdoor gathering with live DJ music and food trucks, inviting guests to mingle, relax, and enjoy the Hobby Center campus.
Information Tables
Information tables hosted by Hobby Center Arts Partners sharing event details along with ticket discounts and promotions.
Concessions
The concessions station will offer a selection of snacks and beverages available for purchase throughout the event.
Accessibility
Accessible golf cart transportation available from the garage to assist guests reaching the venue.