Rob Giardinelli
Opening Night Onstage Dinner Benefiting The Houston Ballet Honors Legendary Dancer Lauren Anderson
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Daniel Ortiz Photography
THE SCENE: The Wortham Theater Center in Houston was the recent setting for a multi-act night of fun and fundraising. A sold-out crowd featuring 230 of Space City’s most prominent art patrons, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the Houston Ballet’s Opening Night Onstage Dinner. The night featured dazzling performances, touching tributes, and honored one of the city’s most iconic artists, resulting in an epic night that those fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget.
THE VIBE: Before the dinner began, guests took to their seats and were treated to an opening night performance of one of the world’s most beloved classics, The Little Mermaid, which was underwritten by philanthropists Phoebe and Bobby Tudor. After the performance, patrons gathered in the Orchestra as Artistic Directors Stanton Welch AM and Julie Kent honored the legendary Lauren Anderson for her impactful, trailblazing contributions to the Houston Ballet.
Revelers then gathered and chatted as guests awaited the grand unveiling of Wortham Theater Stage where they shared their favorite parts of the The Little Mermaid performance they just witnessed. In the cocktail attire crowd, one could spot a mix of bright colors, floral prints, and classic ensembles that created a warm, welcoming, and lively environment for all who attended.
The curtain of The Wortham Theater stage then rose and revealed a gorgeous stage featuring cream-colored linens, and pink and white floral arrangements that elegantly and perfectly complimented the backdrop of a blue sky background that wowed the crowd. Revelers then headed to their seats for the dinner, a delectable, multi-course affair catered by City Kitchen, capping off a wonderful evening of great food, company, and artistry.
THE NON-PROFIT: The 2024 Houston Ballet Opening Night Onstage Dinner, co-chaired by Mignon and Steve Gill and Fady Armanious and Bill Baldwin, raised a record-breaking $325,000 for the Houston Ballet. Proceeds raised from the event will benefit the organization’s world-class educational and program initiatives.
