This simple screening venue is a welcome change from gaudy, crowded mall multiplexes.

by Contributor

The Scene
Originally a Church of Christ chapel, built in 1924, the space has been converted into a no-nonsense theater. The pews remain, but the pulpit has been replaced by a video screen. The cinema hosts twice-monthly screenings of progressive, sometimes quite amateurish and mostly avant-garde films and videos.

The Draw
There's no admission fee--seriously--but a suggested donation of $5 will be accepted gratefully. Also, the Aurora has gained notoriety in the Houston art community, partnering with Diverseworks for screenings and participating in the annual Houston Gay and Lesbian Film Festival. Not bad for a converted church turned repertory cinema.