DALLAS — Past the bricks and beams, transformation breathes life into a known historic building.

“This was the original façade of the building,” said Nijeul X. He joined Forest Theater as the new Executive and Artistic Director in October, 2025.

“We’re entering the historic lobby, which every time I come in this space, it’s very ceremonious,” said X as he gave WFAA a tour of the construction alongside Elizabeth Wattley, Forest Forward President and CEO.

The Forest Theater in South Dallas is historic welcoming countless artists in its 76 years.

“There’s something to really think about who walked these halls before and what the opportunity we’re getting ready to create for other artists, community members, families to walk the halls in the future,” said X.

He and Wattley shared the vi

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