Children’s Museum Houston’s “The Noir Ball” Dazzles

Organization’s Haunted Elegance Theme Dazzles In Regal, $1.1 Million Night

By Rob Giardinelli     Photography by Alexander’s Fine Portrait Design

THE SCENE: The Corinthian in Houston was the recent setting for a night of regal elegance in one of Texas’ most majestic event spaces. Nearly 500 of Space City’s top community leaders, children’s advocates, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the Children’s Museum Houston’s annual gala. This year’s theme “The Noir Ball: A Celebration of Haunted Elegance” took the sophistication and glam to a whole new level with the result being one of the events highest fundraising totals to date.

THE VIBE: The “Black-tie With A Gothic Twist” attire featured a dazzling array of elegant, more traditional black-tie fare while others sported Halloween costumes, which resulted in a welcoming, festive environment for all who attended. No matter the attire, many patrons donned red and black ensembles in honor of the nights and event color pallete.

From the second revelers ascended the red carpet that adorns the marble staircase of The Corinthian they knew they were in for a very special evening. Once atop the staircase on the Mezzanine level, revelers had the opportunity to pose for images to commemorate the evening with iconic gothic characters Dracula, Maleficent, and Wednesday Adams before heading to a lively cocktail hour. Here guests could be seen sipping on their favorite spirits, admiring one another’s festive ensembles and perusing an exquisite, curated silent auction of luxury packages.

Partygoers then headed down the grand staircase of The Corinthian for the evenings main program. Many jaws dropped as they were welcomed to a bewitching space complete with elaborate chandeliers against the backdrop of tables donned with candelabras and caged roses.

Once at their seats, revelers enjoyed a delectable, multi-course meal courtesy of Jackson and Company as they were treated to words by organization and event leaders. Next came a spirited live auction that included such amazing items as a Costa Rica Getaway, a dinner party for 24 in The Corinthian Vault, and two Labrador/Pointer mix puppies being the most popular. The auction culminated in a “Last Paddle Standing” where the bidding soared for a bangle donated by Zadok Jewelers.

On a high from the auction, the festivities continued with a lively after party that kept the fun going well into the night. Partygoers could be seen on the dance floor dancing the night away to The Spazmatics, who captivated the crowd as they sang an array of iconic 80’s tunes, capping off a night that those fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget.

THE NON-PROFIT: The Noir Ball: A Celebration of Haunted Elegance, co-chaired by Whitney and Ryan Burns & Allison and Iván Chávez, raised $1.14 million for Children’s Museum Houston. Proceeds raised from the event will go towards the nationally acclaimed museums educational and program initiatives to help fulfill the organization’s mission to provide life-changing learning experiences to guests.