Globe of the Great Southwest

The Globe of the Great Southwest is a theater in Odessa, Texas whose design was inspired by that of William Shakespeare's original Globe Theatre. In addition, the complex also features a replica of Anne Hathaway's Cottage. Both buildings are located on the campus of Odessa College.The Globe Theatre is a non-profit organization presenting classical and modern plays on an Elizabethan stage. It hosts community theater performances, monthly country-western shows called The Brand New Opree, and other community activities. The nearby Anne Hathaway Library, a replica of the cottage in which Shakespeare's wife lived, houses displays of special interest to Shakespeare fans. Full-time theatre activity began in the fall of 1968.The current Executive Director of the Globe of the Great Southwest is Katryna Engebretson.HistoryThe idea behind The Globe of the Great Southwest was first conceived in an English class at Odessa High School in the late 1950s:The Globe Theatre organization and fundraising efforts for construction were begun in 1958, and construction was completed as funds were raised and became available; it began its first season in 1968. The apron stage and unobstructed balcony views create an unusually intimate setting for a theater of the Globe's size. It has 441 seats. Also, the shape and construction materials, which were wood and plaster, result in excellent acoustics. The interior, with its rich British red carpeting and upholstered seats, and its warm London dock lanterns, makes each visit a "memorable and aesthetic experience."