nurturing young theatre artists
Founded in 1988 to rescue and restore San Antonio’s treasured Majestic and Empire Theatres, our organization has always recognized that the vitality of these historic spaces depends not only on preserving their architectural beauty but also on filling them with vibrant performances and engaged audiences.
From the beginning, our mission has been about more than just safeguarding the past—it’s been about creating a thriving future for the performing arts.
To ensure that these theaters remain dynamic cultural hubs, we expanded our focus to include transformative educational and scholarship programs designed to empower students across San Antonio and South Texas.
This vision came to life in 2009 with the creation of the Joci Awards, now celebrated as the largest and most comprehensive performing arts scholarship initiative of its kind in the nation.
With over $1.6 million awarded to 500+ students, we provide critical support, resources, and opportunities that inspire success on stage, in the classroom, and beyond. By investing in arts education, we’re shaping confident, creative leaders ready to excel in any path they choose.
As the Majestic Theatre approaches its centennial, we remain dedicated to enriching the cultural landscape of San Antonio and South Texas. With each new initiative and every scholarship awarded, the Majestic Empire Foundation isn’t just preserving history—we are shaping a brighter future, where the arts are at the heart of our community, creating opportunities for students and empowering them to succeed in life.
222 E. Houston Street, Suite 640
San Antonio, Texas 78205
(210) 223-4343
We invest in the past, present, and future of the performing arts by preserving historic theatres and nurturing young theater artists.