Three HISD schools receive grants to boost theater education programs

Theater programs at three Houston Independent School District campuses have received grants from the Andrew Lloyd Webber Initiative totaling nearly $50,000.   

HISD’s Chavez High School received $30,000 from the group to refurbish its set design workshop. The Chavez Lobo Theatre not only builds its own sets but also provides items for productions, classrooms and clubs for other campuses in the district. 

HISD’s Northside High School received $12,500 from the Andrew Lloyd Webber Initiative to improve its theatrical library, playwriting curriculum and obtain high quality costumes.  

The district’s Gregory-Lincoln Education Center for the Performing and Visuals Arts received $7,107 for the purchase of a spotlight, sewing machine, costumes, stage props, a projector, and to establish a Theatre Arts reading/writing program. 

“One of our key objectives is to educate the whole child, so to have a philanthropic entity come along to help us do that in the area of the arts, is outstanding,” HISD Interim Superintendent Grenita Lathan said. 

The charitable foundation stated its selections were based on the exceptional talent level present at the schools, coupled with the need for economic assistance. 

The Andrew Lloyd Webber initiative provides funding to underserved public school campuses and individual students nationwide, with demonstrated exceptional talent, that require financial assistance to pursue the study of theatre.