Camden-Midtown, Opinions? (Houston: apartment complex, renting, home)

[squeakyarmadillo]

Hello!

I've been trolling the forums here due to the fact that I'll be being moved to Houston from New Hampshire in August (Great timing.. ugh)

I've identified that I want to be in Montrose, I am bringing my car (although my boss thinks it's a waste.. I've read enough here to know I'll need it!), I have my 17 year old daughter with me (who's desperately hoping to find some costuming work in the Theater district (Work or Volunteering... anyone have connections?) and I now know the complex that they're considering putting us (perhaps for a year).

Camden-Midtown apartments, which look pretty although SO not my taste. I figure if it's only a year I can deal. Does anyone have any opinions on that property? Good, bad, etc?

Thanks much!

[houstoner]

I have a friend working in wigs and makeup at the opera and know others who have or are working in costumes at the Alley and the ballet. I doubt there'd be employment or internships for her with all the students and graduates they get from the costume design programs at the University of Houston, Houston Community College, and elsewhere, but there may be volunteer opportunities for high school students. Check the websites or just call and ask. This isn't the type of town where you need connections.

[Linza]

You're in luck. I both live at Camden Midtown (it's nice, but there's a large group of twenty-somethings that like to stumble around drunk when they come home from clubs), and work at the Alley Theatre (they are always looking for volunteers).

Your daughter will not be placed in any work with costumes, wigs, or make-up. Volunteers are generally ushers. More information is available here-- Alley Theatre - Volunteering

If your daughter wants to work specifically in costumes or make-up, she may wish to volunteer at smaller community theatres, where there will be a bigger demand (and more appreciation for the work). I worked for the Bay Area Harbour Playhouse one summer during undergrad. She could start there, or with the Clear Lake Little Theatre. There are theatres closer to the midtown area, if that's where you end up, but be careful about the content.

Break a leg!
-- L

[modster]

I think I understand your issues with the complex. Granted it is basically a suburban garden apartment complex plopped in the middle of the city, but I think you will be okay with it. What the physical structure lacks in character it will probably make up for with convenient urban location. It will be a younger crowd, but it is a nicer complex and Camden is a reputable management company.

If your Boss thinks bringing a car is a waste, he obviously knows little or nothing about Houston.

The year in that complex will give you a good central location to learn the city. While many are only concerned with how one master-bland community stacks up against another, your year of renting will give you an opportunity to explore different older neighborhoods & explore your options both within Montrose and beyond.

[texas7]

If your daughter is still in h.s. you might want to check out Houston's High School for Visual and Performing Arts.