Rob Giardinelli
Multi-Act, Gilded Age-Themed Opening Night Dinner Kicks Off 2024-2025 Classical Season
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Jacob Power Photography and Thomas Campbell
THE SCENE: Two venues in downtown Houston were the recent setting or a spectacular night of music, glamor, and philanthropy. Over 300 of the city’s most prominent art patrons, sociables, and community leaders were on hand for the annual Houston Symphony Opening Night Dinner. Featuring a New York Gilded Age theme, this year’s event set a new standard in sophisticated elegance with great performances, amazing food, and wonderful company.
THE VIBE: The black-tie crowd featured an eclectic mix of classic formal ensembles, bold colors, prints, metallics, and pastels that created a welcoming environment for all who attended. The festivities started at Jones Hall with patrons joining a broader audience who listened to dazzling performances by Juraj Valčuha alongside the Houston Symphony Chorus of Dvořák’s New World Symphony and Martinů’s Czech Rhapsody.
The festivities then moved to The Corinthian in Houston for the opening night dinner. Richard Flowers and The Events Company transformed the already stunning and iconic event venue to the next level taking inspiration from Dvořák’s arrival in New York in the late 1800’s that inspired the New York Gilded Age theme. As guests sipped cocktails, they marveled at the fabulous floral decor and opulent chandeliers that perfectly complimented the sage and champagne-colored linen pallet.
As revelers took to their seats, which featured a mix of round and continental-style tables, they were treated to a delectable, multi-course meal catered by City Kitchen. Each course included a curated Wine pairing courtesy of Spec’s Lindsay and John Rydman and Lisa Rydman. The night was capped off with live musical entertainment by Julie Johnson.
THE NON-PROFIT: The Houston Symphony Opening Night Dinner, chaired by Mary Lynn Marks, raised over $550,000 for the Houston Symphony. Proceeds raised from the event will go towards the organization’s industry-leading education and community engagement initiatives.
