HOUSTON (September 14, 2020) - Houston First Corporation (HFC) is excited to announce its new Cullen Live! Studio at Wortham Theater Center. This fully equipped, audio/visual and live streaming recording studio will offer local performing arts groups a way to connect with their audiences during a time when in-person events have been cancelled or postponed because of the global pandemic/COVID-19 crisis.
Many arts groups that have not been able to continue their performance seasons, struggle to find ways to preserve important relationships with their supporters. The Cullen Live! Studio is a turnkey option for these groups to keep their staff, crew and performers working, while maintaining their supportive customer base.
Creating virtual content does not have to be complicated or intimidating. The Cullen Live! Studio offers several basic stage and camera configurations, allowing for a “plug and play” setup. HFC’s team, along with the Bend Production staff are ready to help groups, small, large or in-between create a successful program. A studio rental checklist guides clients through project planning, including scheduling, virtual ticket sales, licensing and insurance agreements.
“Live performances and events are a casualty of the pandemic for now, but the Cullen Live! Studio can provide a way forward for local arts and entertainment groups over the next few months,” said Michael Heckman, Houston First acting president & CEO. “We invite organizations to consider taking their productions virtual by using this platform to engage and even grow their audiences.”
The Houston Grand Opera is the first client to use the new Cullen Live! Studio, kicking off its digital season in September with a recital featuring soprano Tamara Wilson.
“We are extremely grateful to our partners at Houston First for their commitment to Houston’s performing arts organizations,” said Perryn Leech, HGO managing director and board chairman of Theater District Houston. “The Cullen Live venue will allow groups to create high quality livestreamed and prerecorded performances in order to connect with audiences in a way that is safe and cost effective. We are thrilled to be filling the Cullen Theater with music at a time when many other venues across the country and the world have been silenced.”
Of course, safety is a top priority and all clients, along with Houston First staff are required to abide by Houston First Corporation Health & Safety Guidelines, which include temperature checks, health screening surveys, and wearing face coverings.
Cullen Live! Studio pricing takes into consideration, the budget needs and restrictions of a range of local groups. For more information on the Cullen Live! Studio, click here.