Ever since we found out that the Texas Repertory Theatre was coming to northwest Harris County, the 1960 Sun has made an effort to keep the community updated with the latest information.

We've written features about the different plays they've staged during their inaugural season, and I hope this has enticed you to go check out what the Texas Rep. has been doing.

The fact is, this is a valuable resource for all the residents of the area. Most communities outside Houston city limits could only dream of the arts facilities we have here in northwest Houston. For years, we've had some of the best community theaters around, like ACE, Playhouse 1960, Applause and the new kids on the block, Houston Family Arts Center. If you haven't been to one of these stages, you really should.  We've got the Cypress Creek Centrum, and soon we'll have the Museum of Fine Arts, Cypress Creek.

But for professional theater in the area, there is only the Texas Repertory Theatre. That is, unless you want to go downtown. Anyone want to go downtown? I didn't think so.

You may have heard this before, but the Texas Rep. is the only professional theater between downtown Houston and downtown Dallas. Think about that; let it really sink in. It's the only one. And it's right here in our backyard. I don't know about you, but I think that's worth supporting ... even if you're "not really into plays."

It's as simple as enjoying a night at the theater. Just buy a ticket and go. You'll love it. And you'll thank yourself for not missing the final production of the inaugural season at the Texas Rep., "Forever Plaid."

If you want to do more, consider making a contribution. The Texas Rep., like most nonprofit theaters, only gets about half of its operating budget from ticket sales. The rest comes through sponsors. If you're not an actor, you can still play a role by donating to the Texas Repertory Theatre's annual fund. Help ensure that the stage on Stuebner Airline stays lit for another season.  You can find out a lot of great information about the Texas Repertory Theatre, including show times and details about making a donation, on their Web site, www.texreptheatre.org.