Austin, September 24, 2025
News Summary
The Curtain Theatre in Austin, a notable Elizabethan replica, is set to host its final production, ‘Much Ado About Nothing’, from October 2 to October 25. Established over 20 years ago, the theatre has provided unique performances by The Baron’s Men, but its closure has been prompted by the sale of the property. The Executive Artistic Director expressed the heartbreak of losing a cultural landmark, while future plans for the company include transitioning to new locations and aiming to build a new theatre. This marks a significant moment for the Austin arts community.
Austin, Texas will witness the final curtain fall at the Curtain Theatre, a cultural landmark that has entertained the community for more than 20 years. The theatre, modeled after Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, is set to host its last production from October 2 to October 25, 2023.
Located along the shores of Lake Austin, the Curtain Theatre has been home to performances by The Baron’s Men, a local theatre company, since its inception. Unfortunately, the decision to close comes as the property is being sold, leaving the future of the venue uncertain.
Executive Artistic Director Lindsay M. Palinsky highlighted the significance of the theatre, noting that it is one of only a handful of Elizabethan replica theaters in the entire United States. The impending closure has been described as “heartbreaking” and a “sign of the times” by Palinsky.
Final Production Details
The final production will be the classic comedy “Much Ado About Nothing”. Audiences can expect an interactive experience, reminiscent of Elizabethan theatre traditions where cheering and hissing is encouraged. The unique round structure of the theatre enhances audience engagement, placing viewers within 25 feet of the stage and thus fostering a closer connection between actors and audiences.
Challenges and Future Plans
Despite its charm, the open-air design of the Curtain Theatre has presented challenges, including dealing with unpredictable weather and wildlife. However, the dedication of The Baron’s Men has not gone unnoticed, as performers have received special citations for their commitment to Elizabethan and Jacobean theater.
As the theatre closes its doors, The Baron’s Men have announced plans to transition their performances to alternate locations. Their next season is already planned, and they aim to eventually construct a new Elizabethan-style theatre.
Background of the Curtain Theatre
The Curtain Theatre was founded, largely thanks to the efforts of Richard Garriott, a friend of the theatre’s founders, who commissioned this Elizabethan-style space. Situated at 7400 Coldwater Canyon Drive in Austin, the theatre has been a distinct part of the local arts scene since it opened.
As the final production approaches, audiences are encouraged to secure tickets and support a relocation fund through the theatre’s website. The closing of the Curtain Theatre is a poignant moment for the Austin arts community, marking the end of an era for a beloved venue.
Key Details Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Theatre Name | Curtain Theatre |
| Location | 7400 Coldwater Canyon Drive, Austin, Texas |
| Final Production | Much Ado About Nothing |
| Dates | October 2 to October 25, 2023 |
| Company Involved | The Baron’s Men |
| Notable Features | Elizabethan replica, open-air design, 25 feet from stage |
| Future Plans | Relocation and construction of a new Elizabethan-style theatre |
FAQs
When will the final production at Curtain Theatre take place?
The final production will be from October 2 to October 25, 2023.
What play will be performed as the final production?
The final production will be “Much Ado About Nothing.”
Where is the Curtain Theatre located?
The theatre is located at 7400 Coldwater Canyon Drive in Austin, Texas.
What are the plans for The Baron’s Men after the closure?
The Baron’s Men plan to continue their theatrical work at alternate locations and are working on plans to construct a new Elizabethan-style theatre.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- KVUE: Curtain Theatre Austin Closing
- Wikipedia: Curtain Theatre (Austin)
- Texas Highways: Austin’s Curtain Theatre
- Google Search: Curtain Theatre Austin
- Statesman: Austin Theatre Awards
- Google Scholar: Austin Theatre
- Austin Chronicle: Top Austin Art 2024
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Austin Theatre
- Broadway World: Review SOMETHING ROTTEN
- Google News: SOMETHING ROTTEN Red Curtain Theatre
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
