TICKETS ON SALE DECEMBER 1

Fade To Black Reading Series returns for its 9th year. 

Funded in part by the Texas Commission on the Arts and by the City of Houston through the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, the Fade To Black Reading Series returns with a vibrant lineup of new short plays that explore the depth, humor, tension, and beauty of the African American experience. This annual event is the premier artistic offering of Shabach Enterprise and continues our long tradition of discovering and elevating emerging Black playwrights.

Each year, writers from across the country submit bold new stories that introduce fresh voices and perspectives in Black theatre. Audiences will experience staged readings of ten original plays presented over one exciting weekend. This season’s selections span comedy, drama, social commentary, sci-fi, and relationship satire, offering a dynamic mix that reflects the richness of Black storytelling today.

The Reading Series is a space where new work comes to life. Audiences enjoy an intimate first look at developing scripts, while playwrights gain valuable feedback that helps shape their work. The event creates a shared environment where artists and patrons connect, listen, respond, and celebrate the ongoing evolution of new Black theatre.

Shabach Enterprise is proud to present this nationally recognized platform that has brought distinction to the City of Houston and has provided a vital launchpad for playwrights across the United States. Through the Reading Series, we continue our mission to support African American artists, expand creative opportunity, and bring new narratives to the stage.

Join us for a weekend of powerful stories, new voices, and unforgettable moments in contemporary Black theatre.

JANUARY 22 - 25, 2026

Matchbox 3

RUNTIME:
2 hours with 1 intermission

TICKETS:
General Admission Seating

$30 in advance/$40 at the door
Friday, January 23

$35 in advance/$45 at the door
Saturday, January 24 & Sunday, January 25

Join us for a TALKBACK after the Saturday night show!

SPECIAL
Pay-What-You-Can Dress Rehearsal
Thursday, January 22

Please note that each ticket is subject to a $5 service fee at checkout.

Act I: 

Two Cans of Chicken – Written by Clementine “Lois” Findlay, Directed by Celeste Cerenio

Ibanujẹ – Written by Deon Barksdale Jr., Directed by Devinaire Barnes

Behind the Barrel – Written by Melody R. King, Directed by Tevyn Washington

An Inconvenient Choice – Written by Frances Hall, Directed by Fahnlohnee Tate

Days of Our Lives – Written by Tracie E. Morrison, Directed by Suzanne King

Intermission

Act II:

The Coming Out (Out) Play – Written by Sheldon Shaw, Directed by Simeilia Hodge Dallaway

Unhoused – Written by Melanie Payne, Directed by Makaylee Secrest

P I S D – Written by Damian Hawkins, Directed by Earll Washington

A Tear in Time – Written by Joe Lewis, Directed by Melita Washington

Betrayal at the Zone of Death – Written by Christian Wilburn, Directed by Ryhan Brown

PLAN YOUR TRIP TO MATCH

🎟️ BOX OFFICE & TICKETING 

• Online sales end 30 minutes prior to curtain. After this time, tickets may be available in person at the MATCH Box Office. 
• The Box Office opens 2 hours before curtain for Will Call and walk-up sales. 
• All sales are final. No refunds or cancellations after purchase. 
• Why is there a service fee per ticket? Click here to learn more. 

⏱️ BEFORE THE SHOW 

• MATCH Concessions opens 1 hour prior to the start of each event. 
  Enjoy a cocktail, wine, beer, or snack before the show. 
  View concessions menu. 
• Seating typically opens 30 minutes prior to curtain. 
• Please note: Some shows have a no late seating or re-entry after the performance has begun. Arrive early! 

🚗 LOCATION & PARKING: MATCH is located in Midtown Houston. Click here for directions and parking options, including garages and metered street parking.

🍽️ RESTAURANTS & BARS: Make it a night out! Click here for a curated list of nearby restaurants and bars within walking distance of MATCH.

♿ ACCESSIBILITY: MATCH is a fully accessible facility. For accessible seating or special assistance, please contact the box office in advance so we can help accommodate your needs. Click here to email the box office.