about us

The Emmett Hook Center is a ministry of First Methodist Church Shreveport, created by the congregation as a gift to both the church and the wider community—a place where creativity, inspiration, and faith come together. This state-of-the-art theater was designed to host a wide range of events, including concerts, theatrical productions, contemporary worship, lectures, and seminars. It stands as a unique example of a church investing in the performing arts to enrich both its congregation and its city.

The Center is named in honor of Emmett R. Hook, Sr., a prominent Shreveport civic leader and former President and CEO of Commercial National Bank. His son, Emmett R. Hook, Jr., a lifelong member of First Methodist Church, continued his father’s legacy through generous support of the Center’s construction. A striking sculpture of Emmett Hook, Jr., created by noted artist Arthur C. Morgan, is on display in the theater lobby.

The vision for the Emmett Hook Center is also deeply connected to the legacy of Dr. Will Andress, Music Director and Artistic Director Emeritus of First Methodist Church. Nearly 50 years ago, Dr. Andress began presenting theatrical productions on campus, laying the foundation for a rich tradition of excellence in the arts. His creative vision, leadership, and dedication to the arts in Shreveport were instrumental in making the dream of this theater a reality.

Funding for the Center was made possible in part through the Louisiana Live Performance Tax Credit, a one-of-a-kind incentive program that provides up to a 35% transferable credit for investments in live performance infrastructure and productions. We are especially grateful to Louisiana Entertainment for their continued support in helping build a thriving arts community.

Today, the Emmett Hook Center, Inc. operates as a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the facility and its mission. As a home for the performing arts rooted in faith and service, the Center continues to bring people together and celebrate the power of storytelling, music, and live performance—bringing stories to life in the heart of downtown Shreveport.