Rob Giardinelli
Wortham Center Set The Stage For The Colorful Evening’s 1920s Theme Gala
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by: Daniel Ortiz
THE SCENE: The Wortham Center was the setting for one of Houston’s most anticipated Spring events, celebrating its world-class, vibrant art scene. Several hundred of Space City’s most notable theater patrons, art lovers, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the annual Performing Arts Houston Kaleidoscope Ball. The theme of Rhapsody in Blue, inspired by George Gershwin’s iconic 1924 work of the same name, boasted a Roaring 20s vibe that dazzled the crowd, resulting in a record-breaking night for the organization.
THE VIBE: The black-tie crowd featured many honoring the night’s Rhapsody in Blue theme by donning their favorite blue ballgown or dinner jacket. Complimenting the blue were many patrons donning metallics, sequins, and prints of all colors. The result was a festive, warm environment for everyone who attended.
The night began with a cocktail reception. Revelers entered a speakeasy where they sipped on an array of Prohibition-era cocktails that got the audience into the spirit of the night. This was all done against the backdrop of a jazz combo performance by the Community Music Center, which added elegance to the evening and made guests feel like they were transported to the Jazz Age.
Guests then headed into the Wortham Center’s Grand Foyer for the dinner and main program. As guests dined on their delectable, multi-course meals, they were treated to words from organization and event leaders thanking them for being a part of a memorable evening. Melanie Gray and Mark Wawro were honored for their tireless support of Performing Arts Houston over the years.
The crowd was then treated to an array of tap, swing, and lindy pop performances by Bessie Award-winning performer Caleb Teicher, along with Dancers Sean Vitale, Samantha Siegel, and Nathan Bugh. They were later joined in a dance number with support from the Houston Swing Dance Society.
Next, Rusty Metrick helmed a spirited and record-breaking live auction that included an array of luxury and bespoke experiences. Keeping in tune with the theme of the night, the most popular item of the night was a Great Gatsby-themed package donated by BVLGARI,
On a high, the fun continued well into the night with a fabulous after-party. Guests cut a rug to the tunes of YUNGCHRIS, a recent recipient of the Performing Arts Houston’s New/Now: The Houston Artist Commissioning Project.
THE NON-PROFIT: The 2025 Kaleidoscope Ball: Rhapsody in Blue, chaired by Margaret and Brian Bravo, raised a record-breaking $750,000 for Performing Arts Houston. Proceeds raised from the event will fund various programs and opportunities for students and lifelong learners with access to the arts, including workshops, performances, talks, and student matinees.
