Wimberley’s treasured community touchstone

EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens

By BONNIE EISSLER

Every community should have some dedicated place where memories are honored, values shared, pleasure generated and all are welcomed, individually and, as a member of something larger. For Wimberley, such exists quite stirringly upon the beautiful grounds of the EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens. Not only does the acreage function as a reflection of what so many within the community hold to be dear but more importantly, it further acts a touchstone where one (or many) can go to reconnect with nature, themselves and others. Wimberley’s everevolving EmilyAnn, a continual endearing communal work-inprogress, remains so much, to so many and quite frankly, that’s it’s role.

Founded in 1998, the theatre and gardens were named for the late Emily Rolling, an aspiring actress, costume designer and much-loved resident of Wimberley. It was her parents’ wish, after losing their youngest daughter in a tragic auto accident, that they find a way to celebrate Emily’s life which had included regular participation in the Wimberley High School’s popular “Shakespeare Under the Stars” performance program. To that end, the high school graciously provided six unspoiled acres with the intent that a privately-funded theater would be built for the program’s future use. After the theater’s completion, the surrounding grounds (which would later double in size to 12 acres) were christened The EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens resulting in a proud and exciting moment, not only for the Rolling family and the school but, for the entire community as well. Like many good things, however, after the theater’s initial construction it didn’t stop there.

As a visit today will attest, not only is the original outdoor amphitheatre still in place and regularly used for the Shakespeare program, concerts and additional productions but, other incredible (and easily accessible) venues, activities, constructions and native and landscaped sites have been added and/or enhanced that further contribute to the tract’s varied utilization. Truly, it’s become like the town’s unofficial park and gathering center where young and old can relax, reflect, recreate, meet, learn and just, enjoy amid myriad, year ‘round man-made and natural wonderment. Let’s take a tour.

After parking and entering the EmilyAnn complex via the southside entrance plaza, depending on what activity is

Veterans Memorial on the Memorial Hilltop at EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens

See EMILYANN, Page 11

Wander the beautiful gardens at the EmilyAnn Theatre& Gardens, a true Wimberley treasure.

Ann Rolling (R) and excited guests at the annual Butterfly Festival.

desired will ultimately dictate what direction to take. And yes, informational help will be immediately available at the plaza office. For starters, a short walk to the west is the theater complex where the impressive, 400-seat amphitheatre looms. It is here where large theatrical productions are undertaken. But almost adjoining is a smaller, indoor studio theater which can accommodate up to 75 people for musical performances, group meetings, instructional classes and other events. And attached is the newly constructed “Great Hall” which further expands the useable interior space. A smaller, outdoor “Art” stage is also on hand for more intimate entertainment. But, beyond the theaters there’s so much more. Let’s keep going!

With meandering, shaded sidewalks wending throughout the sprawling grounds (the paths are studded with multiple,

See EMILYANN, Page 12

With multiple meeting spaces, a convenient location and a friendly staff ready to assist with every detail, the Wimberley Community Center is the perfect place for your next event. To book an event visit: cityofwimberley.com tprovost@cityofwimberley.com 512-847-0025

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Canopy by Larry Fick

Visit the Wimberley Valley Art League online Stop by our Member Gallery pages displaying works available for purchase directly from talented local artists. Learn about upcoming events. Sign up to receive our quarterly newsletter. Consider joining. Whether artist or supporter, we’d be happy to welcome you! THE WIMBERLEY VALLEY ART LEAGUE Where we PROMOTE, INSPIRE, and SUPPORT the VISUAL ARTS in the Wimberley Valley.

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Play a game of chess on the giant board.

Wimberley Flood Memorial.

intriguing, locally-produced works of art), guests can experience myriad visuallypleasing sites. Picnic areas abound brightened by a variety of expertly (and voluntarily) tended gardens – some native, some herbal, some sensory. Signage has been installed throughout to facilitate the educational aspects of each garden. For many, the acres of flora alone are the primary reason for a visit. Others however require a more physical connection and, to that end, the EmilyAnn does not disappoint. Frisbee golf, a giant chess board, roping corral and even a washer toss court beckon the competitive. And for the kiddos, there’s the large creative play area full of enjoyable wonderment that even has a maze too. Can you find your way out?

Add to all this the accommodating concessions stands, benches, restrooms, an EmilyAnn store and, even a library and you begin to get the idea that this truly is one cool, all-in-one recreational place. But, the EmilyAnn also has a more serious side and, that’s not to be missed as well.

On the complex’s northern, more elevated end is the Memorial Hilltop. Not only are stunning, panoramic views offered but, it is here where the memorials are found. As the complex honors EmilyAnn, more targeted sites honor area veterans, 2015 flood victims and even local children who were taken too soon. These beautiful and reflective areas give pause while generating appreciation among those who come to pay tribute and remember. It’s all quite moving.

Lastly, on a seasonal basis, the EmilyAnn hosts a number of very special events including a fun-filled, child-friendly butterfly festival each April and December’s famous “Trail of Lights” where more than 70 illuminated exhibits thrill attendees as they stroll the grounds.

With so much to do and see, it’s no wonder that the EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens have become Wimberley’s

See EMILYANN, Page 13

Shakespeare Under the Stars. Photo by Robert Anschutz.

treasured touchstone for reconnecting with each other and the greater community but as Emily Rolling would agree, that’s its role. Bravo! Photos courtesy EmilyAnn Theatre& Gardens.

FYI • The EmilyAnn theatre and Gardens are designated as a nonprofit organization and reliant on donations and volunteers. The grounds are open daily and are located at 1101 FM 2325 in Wimberley, about a mile east of the town center. For additional information about events, directions, donating, volunteering and more, visit www.emilyann.org.

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