Rob Giardinelli
DACAMERA Gala Celebrates Sarah Rothenberg’s 30 Years As Artistic Director
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Katy Anderson
THE SCENE: The Four Seasons was the setting for an evening that featured great food, fabulous music, and celebrated a milestone for one of Space City’s artistic visionary organizations. A sold-out crowd of over 250 of the city’s most notable music patrons, sociables, food lovers, and philanthropists turned out for DACAMERA’s 2024 Gala: Music Salons and Jazz Supper Club.
THE VIBE: The black tie-attired crowd featured a welcoming mix of beautiful ensembles where classic tuxedos and evening gowns were blended in seamlessly with bright colors and bold prints that created a fun environment. The festivities began with a cocktail reception outside the ballroom where guests participated in a wine pull featuring a list of popular and vintage wines. Meanwhile, the DACAMERA Young Artists performed in three salons featuring music by Felix Mendelssohn, Fanny Mendelssohn, and Claude Debussy. as well as the world premiere of Young Artist Composer Oliver DuBon’s Homage to Beethoven.
The festivities then continued into the ballroom for the main program. KHOU Anchor Len Canon served as emcee who effortlessly entertained the crowd throughout the evening. After taking their seats, patrons dined on multi-course meals with many opening the bottles recently purchased during the wine pull to enjoy with the dishes.
Next, revelers were treated to a special tribute to legendary Artistic Director Sarah Rothenberg who recently celebrated her 30th year with DACAMERA. During the tribute, the organization’s Board President Heidi Gerger announced to the attendees that May 10th had been designated as Sarah Rothenberg Day in Houston. The night was capped off with intimate, yet show-stopping music performances by acclaimed jazz pianist Jason Moran and multi-dimensional vocalist Alicia Hall Moran.
THE NON-PROFIT: The event, co-chaired by Drs. Anthony and Annette Brissett, raised over $250,000 for DACAMERA. The organization’s mission is to provide diverse and inventive musical experiences that aim to inspire individuals and enrich communities.
