
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










