I have been involved with Thirteen O'Clock Theatre for eight out of the nine years this company has been in existence. Every year they never cease to amaze me with their professionalism, work ethic, and passion for the theatre. I have learned so much more being involved in Thirteen O'Clock than I have at a university in regards to this industry. Not only have they done many productions but they have done numerous educational projects to prepare those entering theatre at the collegiate level. This is a company that has never been aimed to making a profit, nor do they have a competitive nature about them. It's purely to share their love of theatre. Everyone that has been involved in this company has been wonderful.
I have been following this company for over four years. This a group of very hard working people who have put on really great productions. The best part of this company is their desire to teach. They make sure that students as well as adults learn from their productions.
I first joined this group's Comedy Warz improv troupe which was crazy fun. Seven or so years later I've had the pleasure to work with Thirteen O'Clock in workshops, staged readings, a touring children's show, and many more artistic projects. Our level of commitment and professionalism prepares younger artists for collegiate theatre and our "new" and "original" projects are great for anyone seeking an outlet for theatre artistry in the RGV. The shows that I have seen or worked on have developed me as well-rounded individual, a critical thinker and a member of Mexican-American culture.
All past and current members of this company are intellectual, innovative and leading artists working or studying in the theatre profession. Thirteen O'Clock produces for high-end artistry and works to nourish the RGV community with insight and opportunity in the theatre world. Their projects never seize to amaze me thanks to their high level of creativity and originality.
Nine years ago, Thirteen O'Clock Theatre set a bar for community theatre in the Valley, which was virtually nonexistent at the time. The amazing productions and various educational projects that they have taken on in the time since then have all been of such professional caliber that it is hard, if not impossible, to beat. Fortunately, Thirteen O'Clock has never (at least in the five years that I have been involved with the company) been geared toward competition, making money, or any self serving goals.
With only the betterment of our community in mind, Thirteen O'Clock has raised the expectations for artists in the Valley, proving that you don't have to leave in order to participate in or witness high quality theatre arts. Additionally, it fosters such a positive, welcoming, and collaborative environment in which all voices are heard and encouraged, regardless of whether an individual has a lifetime of experience or they are working on their first play. Providing amazing opportunities for young people who might have otherwise given up after high school, Thirteen O'Clock is truly an essential part of our culture in the Rio Grande Valley.
Thirteen O'Clock Theatre's productions are very professional. They do very challenging, fun and socially conscious plays. They always make the process educational and rewarding for performers and designers.
I have worked with this company for many years and can attest to their professionalism and dedication to quality theatre. Everyone who passes through is left with an irreversible mark for the better. You learn about theatre in a new and exciting way that is not being taught anywhere else in the Rio Grande Valley.
Thirteen O'Clock Theatre is astounding in their commitment to service in their community. Their contribution of affordable theatre and their productions' pledge of pertinence to the Hispanic culture is such a valuable gift to find in the Rio Grande Valley. Not only culturally diverse, their shows are always such fun to watch and provide great opportunities for young and developing artists.
I did two years of their summer intensive training and it was very clear to me and all the other students that they were really focused on making us better artists and not making money. The entire staff was there because they wanted to be there and help the community. I've never seen another company that cares so much about the community and giving it a voice. Always a pleasure to see their shows!
