From Restoration to Renaissance
Since 1988, MEF has restored two nationally recognized theatres and built an educational ecosystem that empowers young artists at scale—creating public value and transformational opportunities for students across San Antonio and South Texas.
Our Reach & Results
Statistics reflect our long-term impact across preservation, education, and community engagement.
Historic Theatres Preserved
2 (Majestic & Empire)
Years Investing in the Arts
37+ Years
Scholarship Dollars Awarded
Over $2.3M
Students Served Annually
3,000+
Joci Awards Recipients + College Rate
500+ students with 100% college attendance
Schools Engaged
100+ across South Texas
Restoring Icons, Honoring History
These theatres are now recognized as national treasures and cultural anchors for San Antonio.
Majestic Theatre restored in 1989 after raising $4.5M in eleven months
Empire Theatre restored in 1998 with $5.5M in funding including a $1M gift from Charline McCombs
Opening Access Through Opportunity
Our education programs, led by the Joci Awards and Academy for the Arts, have empowered hundreds of students through:
Fully supported scholarship programs
Tuition-accessible training in performance and technical theatre
Broadway Masterclasses and field trip partnerships
These initiatives cultivate skill, confidence, and future leaders across disciplines and geographies.
More Than A Theatre — A Regional Movement
MEF’s work goes beyond performances—it fuels the cultural economy of downtown San Antonio, strengthens arts access in rural communities, and supports equity-driven creative education in over 30 South Texas counties.
Join Us in Sustaining Legacy & Opportunity
As the Majestic Theatre nears its centennial in 2029, your support helps ensure these historic venues remain vibrant centers of performance and education. Together, we preserve the past—and expand opportunity for the future.