NEA Big Read 2025 - Alley Theatre Skip to Content

Their Eyes Were Watching God

by Zora Neale Hurston

Houston, let’s read together! Alley Theatre’s NEA Big Read is a city-wide exploration of Their Eyes Were Watching God, the iconic 1937 novel by Zora Neale Hurston. Rooted in the power of storytelling, this program uses Hurston’s work as a lens to engage Black communities around themes of resilience, self-discovery, empowerment, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

Throughout February and March, the Alley will collaborate with partners across Houston to host events that amplify Black voices and experiences through literature, art, and community dialogue. Artists will guide participants to explore the challenges, triumphs, and rich history of Houston’s Black community. Below, explore our calendar of workshops, discussions, and events that celebrate Houston’s legacy, and future as a vibrant cultural hub.

Schedule of Events

Registration required for most events

February 7, 2025, 6:00pm

NEA Big Read Kickoff Celebration

Their Eyes Were Watching God

at Kindred Stories

in Partnership with Kindred Stories

No Registration Required

February 8, 2025, 11:00am

Community Writing Workshop

Relax and Write

at Smith Neighborhood Library

in Partnership with Houston Public Library

February 15, 2025, 10:00AM

Book Discussion

Where We Live: Community Conversation on Power, Place, and Community

at J. Vance Lewis and Pauline Grey Lewis Museum of Legal Professions and Educators

in Partnership with Rutherford B.H. Yates Museum

February 18, 2025, 5:30PM

Community Writing Workshop

Relax and Write

at Moody Neighborhood Library

in Partnership with Houston Public Library

February 22, 2025, 11:00am

Book Discussion

Heart & Soul: Exploring Love & Self-Discovery

at Kefita Coffee

March 1, 2025, 11:00AM

Book Discussion

HERstory - Exploring Roots, Resilience, and Legacy of Black Womanhood

at Kindred Stories

in Partnership with Kindred Stories

March 8, 2025, 3:00PM

Performance

We’ve Gotta Keep Moving by Steve Scott

at The Ensemble Theatre

in Partnership with The Ensemble Theatre & Esurient Arts

March 8, 2025, 4:00PM

Panel Discussion

Intersections of Black Communities, Art, and Identity

at The Ensemble Theatre

in Partnership with The Ensemble Theatre & Esurient Arts

March 15, 2025, 11:00aM

Community Writing Workshop

Scenes from Our Roots: Family Stories & Personal Narratives

at J. Vance Lewis and Pauline Grey Lewis Museum of Legal Professions and Educators

March 28, 2025, 6:00PM

Performance & Visual Art Exhibition

at Alley Theatre

Echoes of the Bayou: A Celebration of Houston Black Stories, Community & Culture

PARTNERS
Aldine Young Women's Leadership Academy
All Real Radio
The Ensemble Theatre
Houston Public Library
Kefita Coffee
RBHY
Yates High School
WONDERLIKEWANDER