Miller Outdoor Theatre has started construction on a new Gateway Plaza, the venue's first major project tied to its centennial campaign.

Why it matters: The historic public theater's revitalized plaza in the northeast corner of the property will serve as its entrance, improve accessibility and drainage, and better connect the venue to Hermann Park.

• The open-air venue is known for regular free performances, including concerts, plays and cultural shows. The theater regularly partners with local groups — like Houston Ballet and Houston Symphony.

Zoom in: The project — slated to be completed by June 2026 with programming resuming shortly after — will feature updated pathways, drainage and flood mitigation to address long-standing water issues.

• There will also be three shade structures, inspired by the theatre's A-frame, and new picnic tables.

Context: Miller Outdoor Theatre marked its 100th anniversary in 2023 and launched a $12.5 million capital campaign. $6 million has been raised, $4 million of which will fund the Gateway Plaza.

What they're saying: "It's a fitting start to Miller's next century—an investment in spaces that reflect who we are as both an iconic arts venue and a welcoming public gathering place, inviting everyone to experience the performances and memories that make Miller so special," Claudia de Vasco, managing director of the Miller Theatre Advisory Board, said in a statement.

Between the lines: The theater is reassessing its remaining priorities to reflect changing audience habits, limited funds and rising costs, but the upgrades to the seating area and hill remain top priorities, de Vasco tells Axios.

Selena fans will get an intimate look at the Tejano star beyond her iconic costumes, dance moves and powerhouse voice with the release of Netflix's "Selena y Los Dinos" today.

Why it matters: Directed by Isabel Castro, the film is packed with never-before-seen home videos shared by Selena's family.

Driving the news: "Selena y Los Dinos" premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January, where it won the U.S. Documentary Special Jury Award for Archival Storytelling.

Zoom in: Across nearly two hours, Castro traces the Quintanilla family's journey — from their life before Selena, to her first performances at the family's restaurant in Lake Jackson, to her final concert at the Houston Astrodome. While her death at age 23 is addressed, it's not the film's focus.

• "I was focused on Selena growing up," Castro, an Emmy-nominated Mexican American filmmaker, tells Axios.

Zoom out: The film joins other projects celebrating Selena's legacy, including Texas State University recently unveiling an exhibit of her personal mementos.

The bottom line: "I hope that when people watch this film, they're reminded of the sheer joy and beauty of (Mexican American) culture," Castro says. "I think that's why this film is more important than ever."

What's next: River Oaks Theatre is hosting a free community screening tonight. Doors open 6:30pm, movie starts at 7:30pm.

🤖 Harris County is considering using artificial intelligence to speed up the building permit approval process. (Houston Chronicle)

📌 The Texas A&M System will require pre-approval for courses addressing race, gender, sexual orientation or gender identity — a move criticized by advocates as censorship. (Houston Public Media)

✈️ Houston-based Avelo Airlines is expanding service again after previously withdrawing from several airports. (Houston Business Journal)

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💪 Relax and restore your body with gentle exercises at Market Square Park tonight.

• Free. 7pm.

🎮 Throw it back with a Halo 3 Slayer tournament at Neil's Bahr tomorrow.

• Free registration at 7pm, with cash prizes for first and second place. Tournament starts at 8pm.

🧘 Head to Axelrad for a late night yoga class tomorrow.

• 8pm. Tickets are donation-based.

🛍️ Shop for unique items at the River Oaks Mercantile Market on Wednesday.

• Free. 4-8pm.

🐘 Stroll through the Houston Zoo for its special 21+ Sip & Sparkle night Thursday.

• Admission starts at $49. 6:30-10pm.