Mary Ellen Butler’s contributions to arts and culture in Georgetown were recognized in a mayoral proclamation at the City Council meeting on June 11, 2019.

During her 18-year tenure at The Palace, Mrs. Butler acted as Artistic Director then Executive Artistic Director. Mary Ellen led the Palace from near bankruptcy into an organization that is a bright beacon in Williamson County. She began the Palace education program and was instrumental in its growth. Her vision and attitude grew the program into the jewel of Williamson County. Mary Ellen also served as a champion for establishing new partnerships and bringing quality and affordable performing arts to Williamson County.

Mary Ellen Butler directed her first play, Our Town, at the Georgetown Palace Theatre in 2002. She served on the board of directors of the theatre and was hired as the Artistic Director in 2003. She remained in that position until her retirement in March, 2019. Mary Ellen helped establish the Palace as an anchor for the downtown which assisted Georgetown in becoming recognized as an official Cultural District by the Texas Commission on the Arts.