Rob Giardinelli
A Star-Studded Celebration Transforms The Winspear Opera House Into An Inspired Soirée Of Music, Magic & Unforgettable Moments
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Can Turkyilmaz
THE SCENE: The Margo and Bill Winspear Opera House in Dallas was the setting for a highly successful, multi-act night of fun and fundraising. Over 300 of North Texas’s most prominent art patrons, community leaders, sociables, and philanthropists were on hand for the 2025 Bravo! Gala. Benefiting the AT&T Performing Arts Center, the night featured great food, touching tributes, and dazzling performances that those fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget.
THE VIBE: The black-tie crowd featured a regal, elegant mix of floral ensembles. Amid the stunning sea of tuxedos and ballgowns, one could find patrons donning neutrals, metallics, prints, bold colors, and sequins. The result was a fun, festive environment where everyone felt welcome.
and Deedie Rose
Kicking off the night was a lively cocktail hour in the lobby of the Winspear Opera House. As guests enjoyed their favorite spirits, they mingled, catching up with old friends and making new ones. Against the backdrop of mingling, there were performances by each of the AT&T Performing Arts performance companies. This allowed patrons to connect with the world-class performance art the organization provides.
Guests were then escorted onto the Winspear Opera House Stage for dinner and the main program. The Garden Gate transformed the world-class performing arts stage into an elegant ballroom stage. Round tables were complemented with blue-and-white patterned linens, and vibrant centerpieces elevated the space to a whole other level.
As partygoers dined on their multi-course meals courtesy of G Texas Catering, they were treated to words by event and organization leaders thanking them for their support and patronage of the AT&T Performing Arts Center. During the program, Ted and Shannon Skokos were honored for their longtime support of the organization.
Capping off the night was an array of dazzling music. Grammy Award®-nominated and Tony Award®-nominated artist Michael Cavanaugh, wowed the audience, belting out tunes that showcased his vocal range and frequently brought the crowd to their feet. This served as the perfect segue to the after-party, where guests continued the fun dancing to tunes by DJ EndoLena.
THE NON-PROFIT: The 2025 Bravo! Gala, hosted by Alina and Ruben Esquivel & Candice and Adam C. Wright, raised over $550,000 for the AT&T Performing Arts Center. Proceeds raised from the event will go towards funding programs, community engagement, and educational initiatives at the organization.
