On Mondays, our My Top 5 series highlights a Houstonian who is shaping the culture of the city, and reveals how they like to explore Houston in their free time. This week, we’re pleased to feature a special Theater District edition, including Lee Strickland, executive director at Society for the Performing Arts (SPA). This three-part My Top 5 celebrates the free 24th annual Theater District Open House happening on Sunday, August 27, 2017.
My Top 5 Things to Do in Houston
by Lee Strickland
- Izakaya – My new favorite restaurant is Izakaya, which provides unique fusion of Japanese food from the mochi and bacon to the Menudo Ramen. Chef Jean-Phillippe Gaston, the executive chef of Izakaya, is one of the best-kept secrets in Houston. I will eat anything he puts in front of me because I just know it will be amazing.
- Houston Watch Company – My favorite place to grab a cocktail is Houston Watch Company. It provides a great throwback to Houston’s history that puts a modern take on classic cocktails. The Rye Old Fashioned is a personal favorite.
- Geeklife – Geeklife is a wonderfully nerdy board gaming business located in the Heights. You can buy the latest Magic The Gathering sets, play D&D, or even take lessons on how to play any of these games.
- The Museum District – The Museum District is one of my favorite parts of Houston. My wife and I love going to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston; the Houston Museum of Natural Science; and Hermann Park. We go several times a year on our own but whenever we have out of town guests, this is usually our first stop.
- Discovery Green – Discovery Green is an essential part to this city. From movies in the park to free yoga classes, this park is a real jewel in the middle of Downtown.
About Lee Strickland
Lee Strickland is the general manager for Society for the Performing Arts (SPA) and has more than 20 years of experience working in the arts and entertainment industry. He joined the team at SPA in 2006, and loves working for an organization that programs artists that represent the cultural diversity of Houston. Before joining SPA, he worked for Broadway Across America, the Barbara B. Mann Theater in Fort Myers, Florida, and Casa Manana Theater in Fort Worth. Outside of work, Lee loves spending time with his wife, traveling, and going to baseball games.
Society for the Performing Arts is one of the organizations taking part in the 24th Annual Theater District Open House on Sunday, August 27, from noon to 5pm. This free event, which kicks off the fall performing arts season in Houston, is a one-day-only opportunity to experience the energy and excitement of Houston’s Theater District.
