Cypress Stage Launches Professional Theatre with Inclusive Vision and Local Roots
A long-awaited spotlight is finally turning toward Cypress. In a move that promises to reshape the cultural landscape of northwest Houston, Cypress Stage—the area’s only professional performing arts theatre—is preparing for its debut with a bold mission and a community-driven approach.
At the heart of it all is local theatre visionary Janye Anderson, whose decades of experience and deep commitment to accessibility and artistic excellence are shaping a new kind of stage for Cypress.
“When I say ‘professional,’ I’m talking about the way the work is done behind the scenes,” Anderson explained. “It means experienced directors, designers, and performers. It also means valuing artists by paying them and running the organization with transparency and long-term intention.”
A Theatre Born from Community Need
Cypress, one of the fastest-growing suburban areas in Texas, has never had a dedicated professional theatre company—until now. While nearby venues like Stageworks Theatre and Playhouse 1960 have long served the greater northwest Houston area, Anderson saw an opportunity to bring something uniquely Cypress-focused to life.
“Quite simply, Cypress didn’t have its own theatre,” she said. “For a community this large and fast-growing, that felt like a real absence. Patrons were traveling 30 to 60 minutes just to experience live performances.”
The gap was particularly noticeable for seniors seeking daytime theatre and for young families in search of local, high-quality productions. With Cypress Stage, Anderson and her team are not only filling that void—they’re building something intentionally inclusive from the ground up.
Launching with Purpose: The Raise the Roof Fundraiser
To kick off its inaugural season, Cypress Stage will host the “Raise the Roof” fundraiser on Sunday, February 22, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at The Good Friend Theatre, located at 8301 Jones Rd #160, Houston, TX 77065—home of ComedySportz Houston.
The evening promises a mix of live performances, storytelling, refreshments, and a look behind the curtain of what’s to come. Tickets and sponsorship information can be found at CypressStage.org or directly via Zeffy Fundraiser Page.
“The funds will go directly into our productions by paying licensing fees, artists and technicians and supporting the behind-the-scenes infrastructure that keeps everything running smoothly,” said Anderson.
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A Home for Cypress Theatre—Now and in the Future
While a permanent theatre space is part of the long-term vision, Cypress Stage’s first productions will be held at Heritage Presbyterian Church, 14139 Huffmeister Rd., Cypress, TX 77429. The partnership, made possible by Pastor John Roberts and the church’s Session, offers a beautifully renovated venue with deep community roots.
“Accessibility is huge: parking, ease of entry, and comfort, especially for seniors,” Anderson shared. “We’re also looking for a space that can grow with us and support a variety of programming, from mainstage shows to community and educational events.”
Programming for All Ages: A Community-First Approach
Cypress Stage’s debut season will include a mix of compelling dramas, comedies, and a daytime series for seniors, plus family-friendly programming for young audiences. This well-rounded approach is more than strategic—it’s personal for Anderson.
“Starting with these programs sends a clear message: Cypress Stage is for everyone,” she emphasized.
Anderson’s previous work includes founding Houston’s only exclusive daytime theatre for seniors, We Give Productions, which produced five well-received shows in 2024. That experience, combined with her national touring background, informed the design of Cypress Stage’s accessible, inclusive programming.
“At the core of our programming is a shared commitment to inclusion, diversity, and multicultural voices, ensuring our stage reflects the richness of the community we serve,” she said.
Cypress Stage’s highly anticipated 2026–2027 Inaugural Season promises a dynamic mix of beloved classics, powerful drama, musical charm, and heartfelt storytelling. The season begins with Barefoot in the Park by Neil Simon (April 10–May 2), followed by Luce by J.C. Lee (June 5–27), The Taffetas by Rick Lewis (August 7–29), and The Visiting Mr. Green by Jeff Baron (October 9–31). The season concludes with A Lovely Sunday for Creve Coeur by Tennessee Williams (December 31–January 23), launching with Cypress Stage’s first-ever New Year’s Eve Gala.
Performances will run Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 PM, and 2nd and 3rd Sundays at 3:00 PM, offering flexible options for audiences across the northwest Houston area.
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Looking Ahead: Building a Cultural Heartbeat
Success for Cypress Stage, Anderson says, isn’t just about ticket sales or packed houses. It’s about something deeper—building relationships and offering a gathering space for creative expression and connection.
“Success looks like consistently showing up to meet the artistic needs of Cypress and nearby communities – Katy, Waller, Hockley, Tomball, Magnolia, The Woodlands, Spring, and Northwest Houston,” she said. “If, in a few years, families are planning their seasons around our shows, seniors are looking forward to daytime performances, the areas’ youth, and local artists feel supported and valued, I count that as success.”
How to Get Involved
Cypress Stage invites residents to participate in many ways—attending performances, volunteering, sponsoring shows, joining planning committees, or becoming founding donors. Local businesses are also encouraged to partner in bringing this vision to life.
“Cypress Stage is being built with the community, not just for it,” Anderson said.
With its professional structure, grassroots heart, and bold, inclusive vision, Cypress Stage is poised to become a vibrant cultural anchor for Cypress and surrounding areas.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.