Nearly one year ago, we celebrated the Grand Opening of the Wallace Theater. As we approach our first anniversary, I’m proud of what our community has accomplished and grateful for the support that makes our work possible as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to enriching West Texas through arts, education, and community engagement.
In our first year, nearly 10,000 people have come through our doors, with 40% visiting from outside Levelland. We have hosted 124 events, sold more than 4,000 tickets, and generated more than 180 hotel room nights, bringing visitors who eat, shop, and spend money in our community.
But one number means even more to us: 2,062 Hockley County students have experienced educational arts programming at the Wallace. Our goal is to reach all 4,500 students in the county with live arts experiences paired with curriculum teachers can take back to their classrooms.
Making that possible requires our community’s continued commitment. It costs $23 to provide an arts experience for one student. We ask Hockley County school systems to contribute just $3 per student, with donations and sponsorships helping cover the difference. Your support helps us close that gap, maintain our historic theater, and provide free and affordable community programming.
Our second season, “Stories by Starlight,” begins September 12 with Yesterday & Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience, followed by a season featuring Broadway, country, jazz, classical music, family theater, and homegrown talent.
I hope you’ll join us. Come see a show, bring your family, tell a friend, or consider contributing. Even a $20 gift helps us bring the arts to more students and families.
To everyone who bought a ticket, volunteered, donated, sponsored a program, or encouraged us during this remarkable first year, thank you on behalf of the board of directors and team. As a nonprofit organization, the Wallace exists because this community believes that arts, education, and shared experiences matter.
With your continued support, we can ensure the Wallace enriches Levelland and Hockley County for generations to come.
Dillon Palmer Webb Board President, Wallace Theater