Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre

History of the Brauntex Performing Arts Association, Inc.
A group of concerned citizens recognized that the BRAUNTEX Theater located in the heart of historical downtown could fulfill the need for a performing arts theater 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 Theater could meet, its possible uses, and the challenges to success.

After a short delay, caused by the great 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 Theater 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 theater. The screen and walls were removed to restore the view of the stage from all areas of the theater

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 (pictured at right) was a tremendous help. In addition, several volunteers formed the BRAUNTEX Sweatshop (pictured below), 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.