About
For over a decade, the Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre has brought culture and the arts to the region. Year after year, we strive to raise the bar on entertaining public with diverse programming and artistic opportunities.
Many arts organization’s in the area call the Brauntex Theatre home. They feature their programs, recitals, musicals, and concerts on the stages for all ages to see. This is one of the many ways in which the Brauntex Theatre’s mission is met.
Association History
A group of concerned citizens recognized that the Brauntex Theatre could fulfill the need for a performing arts theatre for the growing community of New Braunfels. Key community leaders, including representatives of various arts groups, first met in September 1998.
By May 1999, a facilitator had led a brainstorming session with 36 diverse participants such as city and county government officials, bankers, an attorney, engineers, local artists, a performing arts technician, local business owners, the Main Street Director, and other interested citizens. This group identified the cultural and educational needs which the Brauntex Theatre could meet, it’s possible uses, and the challenges to success.
After a short delay, caused by the flood of 1998, corporate non-profit status was acquired in July 1999. The Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre Association elected officers and directors and contracted a grant writer and management consultant. On August 31, 1999, an earnest money contract was signed, and by December 10, 1999 the Association became the proud owners of the Brauntex Theatre building. Upon possession of the building, teams immediately began planning the reconstruction. Money was raised, drawings were completed, and work was begun. One of the first tasks to be accomplished was the enlargement of the stage. Also, the old upstairs balcony had to be restored because the last owner had closed it off to make room for a second theatre. The screen and walls were removed to restore the view of the stage from all areas of the theatre.
The Association had a great deal of assistance in the demolition, cleanup and reconstruction. The USMC Junior ROTC from New Braunfels High School under Master Sergeant Medrano was a tremendous help. In addition, several volunteers formed a team who sewed some 600 seat covers to fit over the old movie seats.
Before we knew it we were having our first performance. We could not believe our good fortune in having the San Antonio Symphony grace the stage for the first Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre Association event. The Symphony was conducted by Edward Cumming and featured solo flutist Tallon Sterling Perkes. The performance was a complete sell-out and a huge success for the Brauntex.
As the Association approaches the 15 year mark, patrons and community members have recognized the importance of the Brauntex, its presence in Downtown New Braunfels, and its role in the arts community. The neon marquee has become a symbol of a growing Downtown business district and thriving arts community. Over one million dollars in contributions, services, and grants have been used to re-model and refurbish the Brauntex to the facility it is today.
For over a decade, the Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre has brought culture and the arts to the region. Year after year, the Brauntex strives to raise the bar in entertaining patrons with diverse programming and new artistic opportunities. Many arts organization’s in the area call the Brauntex Theatre home. They feature their programs, recitals, musicals, and concerts on the stage for all ages to see. The Association has focused its efforts to maintaining the current infrastructure, promoting arts appreciation, and improving audience retention and growth. Since the re-opening, the Brauntex Theatre continues to be a resource for the growth and promotion of the arts and entertainment in central Texas.
Each year the Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre presents a season that mixes national known touring acts with local Texas artists. These types of shows have a positive impact on the New Braunfels vibrant music scene. It attracts local residents and visitors from as far away as Canada and the United Kingdom. This diverse group contributes to the overall economic vitality of the entire region. Supporting the Arts enhances New Braunfels’ artistic and commercial quality of life.
Mission Statement
The Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre will continually provide excellent cultural and entertainment experiences.