The AT&T Performing Arts Center (AT&T PAC) and Dallas Theater Center (DTC) today announced exploratory plans to combine their organizations in a bold, forward-looking partnership designed to strengthen the future of the performing arts in Dallas while preserving the distinct artistic identities and missions of both institutions.

At the core of uniting AT&T PAC and DTC is a desire to create more great programming for more people, expanded education opportunities for more students, sustained support for local artists, and ensure that Dallas continues to thrive as one of America's great performing arts cities.

“By coming together, we are able to achieve much more than either of us could do on our own,” said Kevin Moriarty, Dallas Theater Center Executive Director. “Not only will this innovative model benefit our audiences, artists, students and our city, it also strengthens and expands our combined ability to meet the opportunities and challenges of the future.”

"The performing arts industry has been undergoing profound systemic change nationwide,” said Warren Tranquada, president and CEO of the AT&T Performing Arts Center. “Stagnation is not an option. Two major Dallas institutions are coming together in a proactive way to write our future, creating a new artistic and business model that can set the stage for strength and sustainability in North Texas and beyond.”

Under a unified AT&T PAC organization, led by president and CEO Warren Tranquada, DTC will continue to produce bold, innovative theater under the leadership of Enloe/Rose Artistic Director Jaime Castañeda building on its history of national recognition, including the 2017 Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre. AT&T PAC will continue presenting world-class performances, touring Broadway and its Elevator Project. This alignment will bring a broader range of lasting theatrical experiences, more ambitious productions, and added opportunities to enjoy exceptional live performance.

"Dallas Theater Center will keep creating the bold, adventurous theatre that defines us while expanding the kinds of stories we can tell, the artists we can collaborate with, and the audiences we can serve,” said Castañeda.

The alignment of organizations also reinforces the vision behind the Dallas Arts District and its importance to the success of downtown Dallas.

“The arts play a critical role in our city, especially in creating a vibrant downtown.” said Mayor Eric L. Johnson, who applauded the innovative efforts. “This is a bold step for these signature cultural institutions, one that distinguishes Dallas as a national change leader and helps ensure our Arts District continues to be an economic, cultural and tourism engine for Downtown.”  

 Education is a cornerstone of the combined vision. Together, AT&T PAC and DTC will build on their award-winning programs, including student matinee performances and  after-school/summer theater programs to backstage tech training, dance engagement, leadership training and community workshops. Aligning resources and expertise will greatly expand access to the performing arts, with a long-term goal of ensuring every student in North Texas experiences live theater as part of their education.

This alignment also supports Dallas artists. DTC will remain a member of the League of Resident Theatres (LORT) and produce more exceptional theater with its Diane and Hal Brierley Resident Acting Company. This will create more opportunities for actors, directors, designers, playwrights, musicians, technicians, and other creative professionals. AT&T PAC will keep providing critical resources for Dallas artists and cultural organizations with collaborative marketing, ticketing services, and premiere performance spaces. 

For audiences, there will be no interruption to performances, subscriptions, memberships, or programming during the transition. Patrons can expect the same high-quality experiences they know and value. They will have more ticketing options, such as creating personalized packages across multiple art forms, more flexible exchanges, and new membership opportunities.

The AT&T Performing Arts Center and Dallas Theater Center come to this with a long history of partnership. Since AT&T PAC’s opening in 2009, DTC has been one of its five esteemed resident companies. DTC’s home is in the Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre. The combined organization will bring finance, marketing, HR, fundraising and ticketing under the AT&T PAC umbrella.  

Founded in 1959, Dallas Theater Center commissioned and built the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Kalita Humphreys Theater as its historic home, where it continues to produce theater today. The combined organization will operate and steward the Kalita under its existing agreement with the City of Dallas. 

Combining the two organizations is subject to approval of their individual boards. They are now entering a due diligence and capital fundraising phase through the summer and fall, with the official approval and uniting expected to occur at the beginning of 2027.

About the AT&T Performing Arts Center

The nonprofit AT&T Performing Arts Center is a 10-acre downtown cultural campus in the heart of the Dallas Arts District. Its iconic venues include the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House, Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre, Annette Strauss Square, and the welcoming green space, Elaine B. and Charles A. Sammons Park. Since its opening in 2009, the Center has presented world-class performing artists, touring Broadway productions, comedy, speakers, and – in partnership with TITAS/DANCE UNBOUND - the world's finest dance companies.  The Center also provides premier performance spaces for its five esteemed resident companies: Anita N. Martinez Ballet Folklorico, Dallas Black Dance Theatre, The Dallas Opera, Dallas Theater Center and Texas Ballet Theater. Through its celebrated Elevator Project, the Center provides stages for small and emerging Dallas arts organizations. The Center also provides a diverse range of award-winning arts education programs serving students in Dallas and Richardson ISDs. These include Open Stages, Backstage Spotlight, Young Women’s Leadership Conference, North Texas Ballet Folklorico Contest and Disney Musicals in Schools presented by the Moody Foundation. Additionally, the Center provides a range of free community programming and festivals at its downtown Arts District campus and at other locations throughout Dallas.  Discover something new at the Center. Learn more at www.attpac.org.

About Dallas Theater Center

Dallas Theater Center (DTC) is one of the leading regional theaters in the country and the recipient of the 2017 Regional Theatre Tony Award. DTC is committed to producing theater with resident artists that illuminate diverse experiences and spark collaboration and dialogue. Founded in 1959, DTC is a resident company of the AT&T Performing Arts Center and presents its annual season at the Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre, and at its historic home, the Kalita Humphreys Theater, the only freestanding theater designed and built by Frank Lloyd Wright. Under the leadership of Executive Director Kevin Moriarty and Enloe/Rose Artistic Director Jaime Castañeda, DTC produces a year-round subscription series of classics, musicals, and new plays and an annual production of A Christmas Carol for more than 50,000 North Texas residents annually. DTC’s productions have been seen on Broadway and at theaters nation-wide. Additionally, the theater’s Department of Public Works produces extensive education programs, including the National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award-winning Project Discovery, a partnership with SMU Meadows School of the Arts, and many community collaborations. DTC is also the home of the Diane and Hal Brierley Resident Acting Company, which features twelve resident artists who perform in every season. For more information: www.DallasTheaterCenter.org  

Dr. William D. Allen is proud to announce his appointment as the new Director of Bands for Dallas ISD’s South Oak Cliff High School, effective for the 2026–2027 school year. A Grammy Award-winning music educator, accomplished musician, and nationally recognized leader in arts education, Dr. Allen will return to the campus where he previously helped elevate the Nu Soul of the South marching band into national prominence. For Dr. Allen, the appointment represents more than a professional milestone, it is a homecoming. Returning to the "School of Champions" offers an opportunity to continue building a program rooted in excellence, discipline, leadership, and opportunity for every student.

During his previous tenure at South Oak Cliff High School, Dr. Allen led the Nu Soul of the South Band during a period of national recognition, culminating in the program receiving the 2021 GRAMMY Museum Signature Schools Award, one of the nation's highest honors recognizing outstanding achievement in school music education. The award celebrated the dedication of the students, staff, families, and community that have long supported the program's tradition of excellence.

Today, Dr. Allen returns with a vision to build upon that legacy by developing musicians who excel not only on the performance field and concert stage, but also in the classroom and in their communities.

"South Oak Cliff is more than a school, it's family," said Dr. William D. Allen. "Returning home to lead the Nu Soul of the South is both an honor and a responsibility. This isn't about picking up where we left off; it's about building the next generation of leaders, musicians, and champions. Together, we'll honor the legacy that has been established while creating new opportunities for every student who walks through our band hall doors."

As Director of Bands, Dr. Allen's primary focus will be leading and growing the South Oak Cliff band program while inspiring students to pursue excellence in music, academics, leadership, and service. Under Dr. Allen's leadership, the Nu Soul of the South Band will focus on:

●      Developing exceptional musicians and student leaders

●      Expanding college scholarship opportunities

●      Strengthening academic achievement and character development

●      Increasing community engagement and alumni involvement

●      Building one of the premier high school marching band programs in Texas

Dr. Allen brings more than a decade of experience as a music educator, performer, arts administrator, and nonprofit leader. Beyond his work in public education, he founded the Texas Supremacy of Music & Arts Conservatory (TSMAC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to music and performing arts education for youth throughout North Texas. His leadership across education and nonprofit service reflects a lifelong commitment to creating opportunities for young people through music and the arts.

Known throughout Texas as the "School of Champions," South Oak Cliff High School has earned statewide recognition for excellence in academics, athletics, and the performing arts. The campus has celebrated multiple UIL Football State Championships and continues to build upon a tradition defined by resilience, discipline, and community pride.

The vision for the Nu Soul of the South extends beyond performances. It is centered on preparing students for college, careers, and lifelong success while strengthening the program's legacy as one of the most respected high school band programs in Texas.

Student registration for the 2026–2027 Nu Soul of the South Band is now open for incoming students in grades 9–12. Families interested in joining the program are encouraged to contact South Oak Cliff High School or follow the Nu Soul of the South social media platforms for additional information and upcoming events.

Trinity Falls by Johnson Development marked National Trails Day in unforgettable fashion on Saturday, June 6, hosting its 4th Annual Trinity Falls Trail Day 5K. The community celebration brought together runners, walkers, and their families raising over $20,000 for three deserving North Texas nonprofits, underscoring Johnson Development’s belief that truly great communities do more than build homes: they build purpose.

The June 6 date was chosen deliberately to align with National Trails Day, the annual nationwide initiative encouraging Americans to get outside and discover the trails in their own backyards. For Trinity Falls residents, those trails are a defining feature of daily life. The 5K route wound through the community’s paved trail network and into the heart of its 350-acre natural park — a sweeping green corridor along miles of wooded river frontage where wildlife thrives and families have room to roam.

Giving back has been a cornerstone of the Trinity Falls Trail Day 5K since its inception, and this year’s event continued that tradition in a big way. Proceeds from the race were distributed among three impactful North Texas organizations:

•  Meals on Wheels Collin County – providing nutritious meals and vital connection to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities across Collin County.

•  Blood Cancer United – advancing research, advocacy, and support for patients and families affected by blood cancers.

•  McKinney Rotary Club – championing service projects and community initiatives that strengthen the greater McKinney area.

Every participant who crossed the finish line received a commemorative medal — a lasting reminder of a morning well spent. The top male and female finishers earned even more to celebrate: each took home a gift card for a free pair of running shoes from Fleet Feet, a $200 gift card, and a signature Trinity Falls visor, a fitting reward for leading the pack through one of North Texas’s most scenic race courses.

The energy didn’t stop when runners crossed the finish line. Families lingered to enjoy a festive post-race atmosphere filled with local outdoors, recreation, and fitness vendors; a disc golf demonstration; live music; photo opportunities; and food trucks serving up well-earned post-race fuel. Children delighted in story time with Ms. Bug and a hands-on ladybug release — a whimsical touch that captured the spirit of connecting with nature that makes Trinity Falls so distinctive.

Located in McKinney, Texas, Trinity Falls is an award-winning 2,000-acre master-planned community by Houston-based Johnson Development Corporation. Anchored by 350 acres of natural parkland, miles of paved trails, and direct access to wooded river frontage, Trinity Falls offers residents an unmatched connection to the outdoors — right outside their front doors. Six award-winning builders offer an appealing mix of townhomes, single-family homes, and active adults 55+ living to create a true sense of community. For more information, visit www.trinityfalls.com.

Deeply woven into the fabric of America's history for over a century, state fairs have been trusted places where fairgoers from all walks of life can come together and celebrate their state's history, culture, and future. This year, as the United States celebrates its 250th birthday, and as the State Fair of Texas celebrates its 140th birthday, the State Fair felt it was only fitting to pay homage to this monumental milestone by incorporating national pride into our annual commemorative art, “Stars, Stripes. And Howdies.”  

In this year’s art, you will see a collaborative melody of elements reminiscent of both the State Fair of Texas and the United States of America. Big Tex, the iconic 55-foot talking cowboy, is always a focal point of the design, but this year, an extra step was taken to showcase national pride through the Fair’s beloved mascot in a fun, patriotic fashion. Big Tex embodies all Texans, and while Texans have a genuine pride in calling the Lone Star State “home,” the State Fair of Texas is also proud Americans who honor our country’s 250th anniversary. 

Since its humble beginnings in 1886, the State Fair of Texas has had a history of producing advertising posters for various aspects of the annual exhibition. From attractions to music to livestock shows, the Fair’s admiration for vintage poster designs led to a wood-block style of poster printing and an obvious choice of red, white, and blue as the predominant colors of the art – just like the American AND Texas flags! Graphical elements that point to both the State Fair of Texas and a sense of nostalgic Americana are incorporated, including a specific call out to the country’s 250th birthday on none other than a coveted State Fair of Texas Creative Arts ribbon! 

With a starburst of patriotic stripes and an emergence of colorful icons, typography, and, of course, Big Tex, the 2026 commemorative theme art is the perfect way for all those involved with the Fair to take a moment to celebrate this special anniversary. The State Fair of Texas is proud to be a part of the next 250 years of state fairs, starting with this year’s celebration of “Stars, Stripes, and Howdies!” 

“The 250th birthday of our nation is a defining moment in history, and the State Fair of Texas is honored to celebrate this pivotal milestone by incorporating iconic themes and imagery into our 2026 commemorative theme art. Fairs across the country have been a staple for generations by serving as a place of community, pride, and creativity, all of which showcase the best of the United States,” said Mitchell Glieber, State Fair of Texas president.  

The State Fair of Texas welcomes you to join them at the Most Texan Place on Earth to celebrate the 2026 theme “Stars, Stripes, and Howdies,” starting September 25 and running through October 18 at historic Fair Park in Dallas. Merchandise is now available at BigTex.com/Store. Season passes are now on sale at BigTex.com/Tickets. More information on additional ticket opportunities for the 2026 Fair will be available later this month; sign up to be a Big Tex Insider and be the first to know.

About the State Fair of Texas

Since its inception in 1886, the State Fair of Texas has celebrated all things Texan by promoting agriculture, education, and community involvement through quality entertainment in a family-friendly environment. The State Fair of Texas is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with proceeds helping to preserve and improve our home, Fair Park; underwrite museums, community initiatives, and scholarship programs to support students throughout the Lone Star State pursuing higher education; and help improve State Fair operations. The 2026 exposition runs September 25 through October 18 in Fair Park. Visit BigTex.com for more information.

Today marks several significant milestones for the Big Tex® Scholarship Program as it announces new Big Tex Scholars for 2026. In its 34-year history, the Big Tex Scholarship Program has officially awarded scholarships to more than 3,850 students for a program total of more than $21.4 million. In addition, the State Fair has made a historic decision impacting the program’s new and future scholars by increasing the scholarship award from $6,000 to now $12,000. With that, the Big Tex Scholarship Program is prouder than ever to announce that the program is awarding more than $1.2 million in new college scholarships to 103 students across the Lone Star State in 2026. 

Since its establishment in 1992, the Big Tex Scholarship Program has upheld the State Fair’s nonprofit mission of supporting agriculture, education, and community involvement. What began as a $20,000 annual contribution to Dallas ISD has grown into a far-reaching program impacting thousands of students across the Lone Star State. In its 34-year history, the Big Tex Scholarship Program has awarded scholarships to more than 3,850 students for a program total of more than $21.4 million. As the program has expanded over the years, so has its investment in students, raising the base scholarship amount multiple times. 

The State Fair of Texas, in partnership with our Scholarship Committee and Board of Directors, is proud to announce that they have increased the base scholarship award amount for new and future Big Tex Scholars. With awards formerly at $6,000, each newly awarded student will now receive $12,000, paid out over a four-year period – the largest incremental increase in the program’s history. This enhancement reflects the continued momentum and growth of the scholarship program, strengthens its commitment to student success, and expands opportunities for the next generation of leaders. 

As the first to receive the newly increased $12,000 awards – they are proud to announce that the program will be awarding Texans with more than $1.2 million in new college scholarships in 2026. This year, 103 scholarships will be given to deserving students across the Lone Star State: 50 Juanita Craft Scholarships to Dallas ISD students, 50 Youth Livestock Scholarships to students throughout Texas, two Seasonal Employee Scholarships, and one Peggy Sloan Memorial Scholarship. 

“This milestone underscores our deep commitment to investing in the future of Texas students,” said Mitchell Glieber, President of the State Fair of Texas. “We are proud to continue growing the Big Tex Scholarship Program in a meaningful way, and we are especially grateful to our Scholarship Committee and the State Fair of Texas Board of Directors for their vision and leadership in making this historic increase possible. Together, we are expanding opportunities and opening doors for students across our state.” 

Honoring the legacy of South Dallas resident and civil rights activist Juanita Craft, each year, the State Fair awards college scholarships to selected applicants from six Dallas ISD high schools surrounding the Fair Park area – Irma Lerma Rangel Young Women’s Leadership School, Franklin D. Roosevelt High School of Innovation, James Madison, Lincoln High School and Humanities/Communications Magnet, North Dallas, and Woodrow Wilson high schools. In addition, the State Fair awards scholarships to select applicants across the state who have participated in youth livestock competitions at the State Fair of Texas. The Seasonal Employee Scholarship serves as a thank you to the Fair’s seasonal employees for their hard work and dedication to the State Fair of Texas – both qualified seasonal employees and their dependents are eligible for this opportunity. 

A total of 50 graduating seniors from six Dallas ISD high schools were awarded the Big Tex Juanita Craft Scholarship and 50 Youth Livestock Scholarships were awarded to graduating seniors from across the Lone Star State. This year's recipients will receive a $12,000 scholarship paid over eight semesters (or four years), renewable each semester if the student meets the criteria for renewal. Students must attend an accredited college, university, or trade school within the state of Texas. To qualify for scholarship renewal, recipients must enroll in and pass a minimum of 12 hours each semester. In addition, recipients must achieve a minimum 2.5 GPA in their first semester and a 3.0 cumulative GPA for every semester thereafter. 

The State Fair also awards new ancillary scholarships where outstanding students are awarded an additional $6,000 over four years to combine with the initial scholarship award to put towards higher education. Awarded to a strong leader and graduating senior from Irma Lerma Rangel Young Women’s Leadership School, this year’s recipient of the Peggy Sloan Memorial Scholarship is Laura Romero, recognizing her exceptional leadership, academic achievement, and commitment to her school community. 

The Fair congratulates all of these deserving scholars on their personal and academic achievements and is excited to support them in pursuing their aspirations for higher education and the future of Texan youth.  

About the State Fair of Texas

Since its inception in 1886, the State Fair of Texas has celebrated all things Texan by promoting agriculture, education, and community involvement through quality entertainment in a family-friendly environment. The State Fair of Texas is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with proceeds helping to preserve and improve our home, Fair Park; underwrite museums, community initiatives, and scholarship programs to support students throughout the Lone Star State pursuing higher education; and help improve State Fair operations. The 2026 exposition runs from September 25 through October 18 in Fair Park. Visit BigTex.com for more information.