Dazzling Annual Gala Raises $1.6 Million For Beloved Organization
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Wilson Parish
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THE SCENE: The Wortham Center for the Performing Arts in Houston was the recent setting for a fabulous night of fun and fundraising that those fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget. Over 500 of the city’s most notable sociables, art patrons, dance lovers, fashionistas, and philanthropists turned out for the 2024 Houston Ballet Ball.
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THE VIBE: The white-tie crowd had men donning their finest tuxedos complete with tails while the women wore stunning gowns in an array of colors that created a welcoming environment for all. Guests ascended the grand staircase of the Wortham Center to the second floor for cocktail hour. After posing for photos on a custom step-and-repeat to commemorate the evening, patrons entered the main event space for cocktail hour.
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More than a few gasps were heard as revelers were in awe of the stunning canvas created by Richard Flowers of The Events Company, which included a mix of whites and soft blues that was simultaneously soothing and awe-inspiring. During the cocktail hour, guests sipped on their favorite cocktails while perusing a curated silent auction that included a luxury stay in Snowmass, Colorado and a 2024 Nutcracker Market Sugar Plum experience among other five-star items.
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Partygoers then took to their seats for the program and a multi-course seated dinner catered by City Kitchen. During the program, patrons were treated to a dance performance by various 6 couples from the Houston Ballet Company set to music by Austro-Hungarian composer Franz Lehár. As soon as the final dance was performed, it was only fitting that the Stratosphere Band literally took the event to the next level, kicking off a set with ABBA’s Dancing Queen which had revelers jumping out of their seats to dance the night away, capping off a fabulous evening.
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THE NON-PROFIT: The 2024 Houston Ballet Ball was co-chaired by Cabrina and Steven Owsley and Margaret and Jonathan Cox which honored Akemi and Yasuhiko Satioh for their longtime support of the organization. The event raised over $1.6 million for the Houston Ballet to help fulfill the organization’s mission to inspire a lasting love and passion for dance in Houston and beyond.
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