USITT's 48th Annual Conference & Stage Expo will be held in Houston, Texas from March 19 to 22, 2008. Stage Expo dates for 2008 are March 20 to 22.

"Houston has much to offer our members and exhibitors," said Joe Aldridge, USITT's Vice-President for Conferences, in announcing the site. "We look forward to working with our friends at the Alley Theatre, Jones Hall, Houston Opera, and, of course, the great folks in USITT's Southwest Regional Section who are already investigating how best to spotlight Houston's performing arts community."

The Alley Theatre, winner of the 1996 Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Company, is only one part of the 17-block Houston Theatre District which has 12,948 seats. Houston boasts permanent professional resident companies in theatre, ballet, opera, and symphony -- one of a few American cities with such a diversity of resident productions.

When USITT visits Houston in 2008, major events will be held at the George R. Brown Convention Center, which is located at 1001 Avenida de las Americas. The Convention Center is across the street from the Hilton Americas-Houston which has been selected as the headquarters hotel. Other hotels which USITT will use, including the Courtyard and Residence Inn, are only a few blocks away, close to the Main Event restaurant area and the theatre district.

"We are confident that the 2008 Conference & Stage Expo will provide our guests with the experience they have come to expect from all USITT events," Mr. Aldridge said. "Houston in March will be vibrant as we bring performing arts professionals from throughout the world to visit this exciting city."

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by Barbara E.R. Lucas
Sightlines Editor

Above, the George R. Brown Convention Center at dusk shows off its impressive facade.

Photo/Courtesy George R. Brown Convention Center