One of the many advantages of living in Houston is access to one of the most vibrant and diverse theater communities in the country. From world-renowned institutions such as the Alley Theatre and the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts to the city’s intimate community theaters and experimental performance spaces, Houston offers something for every theater lover. The challenge, of course, is deciding what to see.

That is where Brett Cullum comes in.

When it comes to understanding not just what is playing, but why it matters, few voices are more respected than Brett’s. As one of Houston’s premier theater critics, Brett has spent years helping audiences discover productions worth their time while deepening their appreciation for the art form itself through his reviews for BroadwayWorld Houston.

I have known Brett for more than two decades, and most of that time I have been blessed to call him my husband. One of the things that has always impressed me is his extraordinary ability to tell the complete story behind a production. His reviews go far beyond simply answering the question, “Was the show good?” Through careful research and thoughtful analysis, he explores the history of a play, the life and intentions of the playwright, previous notable productions, and the cultural context surrounding the work. Readers leave not only with a sense of whether they want to buy a ticket, but also with a deeper understanding of the performance they are about to experience.

In many ways, Brett turns every review into both a critique and a history lesson.

Although Houston has always been home, Brett’s path to becoming one of the city’s most recognized arts journalists has been anything but ordinary.

“I went to earn my bachelor’s degree at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee,” Brett explains. “I did a dual major in International Business and Modern Asian Economic History. But I also did a lot of shows at the school’s theater. Somehow, after graduation, I ended up working in radio and television.”

The theater bug never left him.

Theater may occupy much of Brett’s free time, but it is far from his only outlet. He is also one of the voices behind Queer Voices, the long-running LGBTQ+ public affairs program heard on KPFT 90.1 FM and available as a podcast. There, Brett regularly interviews artists, entertainers, and cultural figures from around the country.

“I do segments related to the arts and have interviewed Broadway actors like Alan Cumming and Cheyenne Jackson,” Brett says. “I got to talk with Renee Elise Goldsberry, who is from Houston and originated a role in Hamilton. I’ve also interviewed comedian Sandra Bernhard and nationally known performers like Jimbo and Nina West.”

Yet despite the star power of many of his guests, Brett remains firmly rooted in Houston.

Brett and I first met in 2005, when he was writing film reviews for the online publication DVD Verdict. What began as a friendship grew into a partnership that has now spanned more than two decades.

When asked about our years together, Brett smiles and offers a surprisingly simple answer.

“Lee and I met in 2005, so we are coming up on twenty years together. I have a ton of memories, but my favorite times are when we cruise together. We often simply sit on a balcony, stare at the ocean, and talk. I know that sounds terribly exciting!”

For us, it truly is.

Like many Houstonians, Hurricane Harvey altered the course of our lives. One positive outcome was that it accelerated a dream we had shared for years: moving to Montrose.

“We have lived in Montrose for the last seven years,” Brett says. “It is my dream place to live. As a teenager, I wanted to live here because it had all the cool bars and restaurants and was close to the city. As a theater guy, I love being close to everything.”

But for Brett, Montrose is more than convenience.

“It’s the perfect place to be for us,” he says. “I love the locale. Our neighbors are an eclectic mix of folks that I adore. It’s like a microcosm of cultures and upbringings.”

I could not agree more.

So the next time you are deciding what show to see, take a moment to read Brett’s latest review. Chances are you will learn something fascinating before the curtain ever rises.

You can find Brett’s theater reviews and interviews at BroadwayWorld Houston.