Today I am highlighting the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in Montgomery County. In a civilized society, the arts flourish.  “Art not only reflects culture but influences it, creating the forms and ideals that shape society,” states Dr. Maleurve.  He goes on to say, “Art doesn’t just tell the story of a people. Art establishes and reinforces the patterns of beauty, power and expression that a culture then inhabits.” With a vision to support and celebrate the arts, founders of The Woodlands, George and Cynthia Mitchell wanted to create a special space for the performing arts. In 1990, they realized their dream with the opening of the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

The Setup

The Woodlands Pavilion (as it is also called) is an ampitheatre. In fact according to Wikipedia, it is the 2nd most used ampitheatre in the world. Since 1990, the Pavilion has offered reserved seats and lawn seating for its performances. Throughout the years, it has expanded its capacity. Today its total seating capacity is 16,500 people. 10,000 of those seats are in the lawn. Lawn seats are not reserved. Bring a blanket or rent a special lawn chair and enjoy the concert as a family regardless of the weather conditions.

Music

All different genres of music can be heard from the stage. From Jazz and Classical to Rock n Roll and Country, the Pavilion does not discriminate. This year you can watch performances from Chris Stapleton, Stevie Nicks, Imagine Dragons, and Parker McCollum. The latter is a rising star in Country music who was born and raised in Montgomery County.

They also offer many free concerts throughout the year. According to their website, “We’re the Summer Home of the Houston Symphony, the Home Away from Home of the Houston Ballet, and a presenting venue for the Houston Grand Opera and Texas Music Festival Orchestra.” Typically these are all free performances, which really showcase the arts for the public. It is an amazing opportunity to experience a variety of music from classical music to opera.

In fact this weekend you can see Incubus on Friday and Robert Earl Keen on Saturday. This Sunday, Rob Zombie and Mudvayne are performing. If you are interested in seeing who else is playing for the rest of this year, check out the bands/musicians here.

Next Generation of Artists

In addition to hosting about 65 performances a year, the Pavilion desires to inspire young musicians and artists. They offer educational events, training in the arts, and even scholarships to the youth of our community. About 30,000 children attend these events every year.

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion has truly been a dream realized. Residents of Montgomery County and beyond owe the Mitchell family a huge thank you as well as all the sponsors that keep the dream alive. Since 1990 it has survived hurricanes, a global pandemic, and economic crashes. Regardless it continues to promote the performing arts through concerts and education; therefore, the Woodlands Pavilion is a beacon of the arts.