The lights of the historic Texan Theater in Cleveland will soon shine again as the landmark prepares to reopen under new management and a fresh vision for community entertainment.
Built in the 1930s, the Texan Theater has long been a centerpiece of downtown Cleveland. After ceasing movie operations in 2022 and a brief run as a music venue that closed in 2023, the theater is getting a new lease on life thanks to Clay and Christine Coursey of New Caney, Texas.
Clay Coursey brings years of experience in the entertainment and service industry, having arranged performances for 2920 Roadhouse in Hockley. While he will continue his affiliation there, the Texan Theater marks a personal venture for him and his wife.
“I’m motivated through a love of music and a desire to preserve historic theaters,” Coursey said. “Obviously, the big movie theaters have taken over and made it impossible for the small theaters to be profitable. We are going to make the Texan Theater a venue where we can have music and comedy shows, while also making it available for community and corporate events.”
In keeping with that community-focused vision, Coursey said he is open to allowing a start-up church to rent the theater for Sunday morning services.
“I want to work with them to keep the doors open on Sunday mornings,” he said. “I want the Texan Theater to be wide open to the community.”
Coursey also plans to host a free movie night on the first Monday of each month, inviting residents to enjoy a family-friendly evening of fellowship inside the historic space.
Since its closure, the theater’s marquee had displayed the names of the last performers to take the stage. Recently, however, someone changed the sign to read, “The Path Leads to Home,” echoing the City of Cleveland’s motto of “All paths lead home.” Coursey said he appreciates the message, though the marquee will soon highlight upcoming performances as the venue prepares to reopen.
The first concert will take place Nov. 7 with Bottomland, a Conroe-based band that recently signed with Sony Records. “They are on the move, so it will be special having them there,” Coursey said.
Following that performance will be local favorite Josh Ward on Nov. 13, Escape: A Journey Tribute Band on Nov. 15, Zack Wilkerson on Nov. 21, and country music star Rick Trevino on Nov. 22.
Ticket prices will vary by show. Because the theater seats just 279 people, organizers encourage fans to buy tickets early to secure a spot. Snacks, beer, and wine will be available at each event.
“We have a lot of great shows coming in December, too,” Coursey said. “We’ll release that lineup in the coming weeks. Our goal is to get the community involved to support live music outside of the bar life. We are definitely not a bar. The Texan Theater will be a place where everyone can come to celebrate music and the artist. That’s the message we we are trying to drive home.”
For more information about showtimes and tickets, visit texantheater.com or follow the Texan Theater on Facebook at facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578841405579
Please look at purchasing Dosey Doe!! I hope a developer doesn’t buy it for redevelopment! This is a landmark and need to keep the legacy going on.
Maybe we can finally see Tarkington’s Zach Aaron in his backyard! Hell Yeah!!!
I loved taking my grandson to the Texan while it was a movie theater. It was the only place I could go that was budget family friendly. That included the popcorn and sodas. I cried when it shut down. I can’t afford the bigger theaters. The popcorn and sodas alone cost more than twice the cost of entry tickets. I won’t be able to enjoy movie night with the great grandkids.
No more movie night for this family.
Don’t really know where to start, first congrats on the theater and here’s to a big future and the changes it will make to local artists….Would it be possible for a interview for the San Jacinto Times…in person if possible…thank you 832-386-9237 Gregg Cones + Yvonne Cones