Wortham Theater Center gets new look
At 25, Wortham receives a logo makeover

HOUSTON ― Wortham Theater Center received a special birthday gift for turning 25 – a new look. In celebration of its 25-year anniversary, Wortham Center has a new logo that reflects a quarter-century of elegance and sophistication.

On May 9, 1987, the curtains parted for the first time to a full house and became the home of Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera.

“With our new logo, we tried for something simple and elegant – and a little more modern, because of the great future that lies ahead for the Wortham,” said Houston First President  and  CEO Dawn Ullrich. Houston First is a local government corporation responsible for the management and operation of more than 10 city-owned buildings, including the Wortham.

“The new logo is much like the Wortham itself – distinctive and grand but not too overstated, and ready to serve the community for many years to come,” Ullrich said.

Judson Design of Houston created the new logo.

Built at the height of the 1980s oil bust, Wortham Center was funded entirely by the private sector. The building is the legacy of the late Gus S. Wortham, founder of American General Insurance Company, whose foundation contributed $20 million to the capital campaign for its construction. The Cullen Foundation and the Brown Foundation donated $7.5 million and $6 million, respectively.

Since opening in 1987, the Wortham has entertained more than 8 million people and served as the backdrop for social galas, civic meetings, corporate and group events, and other functions benefiting the community.

About Wortham Theater Center: Wortham Center is one of America’s premier ballet and opera venues. It features two theaters, the Alice and George Brown Theater and the Lillie and Roy Cullen Theater. At 2,405 seats, the Brown is used primarily for major performances by Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera.  The 1,100-seat Cullen Theater hosts smaller opera and ballet productions and serves other arts groups. For more information, visit www.worthamcenter.org.

About Houston First Corporation: Houston First is a local government corporation that generates economic growth through the business of conventions and the arts. Houston First is responsible for management and operation of more than 10 city-owned buildings and plazas, and underground and surface parking for nearly 7,000 vehicles. Facilities include Wortham Theater Center, George R. Brown Convention Center, Jones Hall, Miller Outdoor Theatre and the Hilton Americas-Houston. For more information, visit www.houstonfirst.com.