Organizational History

The City of Harlingen completed the renovation of the Harlingen Municipal Auditorium 1727-seat theatre and the Casa de Amistad 13,000 sq. ft. hall in June 1993. The renovation connected the two facilities making additions and upgrades. Changes included: accessibility for persons with disabilities; two lobbies, concession areas, and box offices; dressing rooms, showers, and restrooms; an administrative office; new sound and light systems; a fire alarm system; a fire curtain; and landscaping.

The Auditorium Advisory Board was established and members were appointed by the city commission. A director was hired to manage the facilities, present national touring performers, and assist with city cosponsored events. It is the only city in the Rio Grande Valley with a city arts division. The City placed the Division in the Department of Public Services with Parks, Recreation, Golf, and Tennis. The first season of presenting was the 1994-95 Spotlight Series featuring three performances. The number of performances in the Series has grown to five in its seventh season. The Children’s Classics Series presents three to five performances for children through school performances and for families throughout the school year.

The City of Harlingen Arts & Entertainment, A&E, supports many local arts organizations through co-sponsorships including: the Rio Grande Valley International Music Festival featuring the Fort Worth Symphony pops concert and school performances; the Air Force Band of the West; the Birding Festival; and RioFest. The city has a reciprocal agreement with Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District and hosts school band concerts, choir concerts, educational seminars and performances, festivals, fairs, and other events. The Harlingen Municipal Auditorium Complex is also a rental facility for the public.

In 1998 A&E expanded programming to include a membership program and two arts alliances. Last year, the membership program raised over $50,000 and boasts over 100 individual, couple, and business memberships. The Harlingen Arts Alliance serves 25 different arts and community representatives. The Valley Arts and Cultural Alliance serves representatives from 13 valley cities. A&E founded the alliances, provides the administration of them, and publishes a newsletter and calendar of events for the public.

Future Programming will include a citywide workshop to establish long-range planning for the arts in Harlingen including: an outdoor concert series free to the public; additional educational programming for the schools and the public; establishment of arts districts; and establishment of Art in Public Places programming. The interest and support is growing as shown through financial support, sold-out performances, and word of mouth kudos.