The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts has moved up its timeline for applications to the Houston is Inspired initiative, aiming to better support local artists and arts organizations. Applications for the 2026–2027 season will be open from Friday, October 31 through December 1, 2025.

Houston is Inspired, launched in 2023–2024, is a signature program that showcases the work of Houston-based artists and organizations through week-long residencies. Participants gain access to the Hobby Center’s premier spaces, professional production support, and marketing resources. The first two seasons relied on curated partnerships, but the 2025–2026 season introduced an open application process, marking a step toward broader, more equitable access to the center’s programs.

Selected artists and organizations for the 2026–2027 season will receive comprehensive support, including a $20,000 stipend for project development, five days of full access to Zilkha Hall—including stage, dressing rooms, technical equipment, and production staff—and a marketing investment with a project-specific promotional plan developed in collaboration with the artist or organization. Each week-long residency is valued at more than $60,000.

Applicants must be Houston-based performing artists or organizations prepared to present a 90–120-minute performance in Zilkha Hall. The Hobby Center encourages all eligible arts organizations and artists in the Greater Houston area to apply. Additional information on program eligibility and the application process is available at TheHobbyCenter.org.

Opened in 2002, the Hobby Center serves as a hub for Houston audiences, artmakers, and arts organizations. The campus features two theaters, including the 2,650-seat Sarofim Hall and the 500-seat Zilkha Hall, and welcomes more than 500,000 audience members annually. The center hosts a full season of musical theatre through its Principal Resident Company, Theatre Under the Stars, along with performances by both Houston-based and touring artists. Education and accessibility initiatives, such as the ExxonMobil Discovery Series, provide thousands of students with free performance experiences each season.

For more information, visit TheHobbyCenter.org.