Rob Giardinelli
Dazzling Annual Gala Raises $1.6 Million For Beloved Organization
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Wilson Parish
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
