Amplify Magazine, Spring 2025 | Performing Arts Houston

MAGAZINE

M A R C H 6 – 7, 2 0 2 5

presented by

SPRING 2025

“A classic jazz singer from a new generation.”

—NPR All Things Considered

The 3x GRAMMY-winning jazz superstar makes her Jones Hall debut.

June 2 | Jones Hall

On sale now! performingartshouston.org

PERFORMING ARTS HOUSTON Amplify Spring Issue

03 Upcoming Events 06 Arts Talk 10 New/Now: The Houston Artist Commissioning Project 16 Mix & Mingle 18 You Made it, Kid: The Student Art Contest at 27 22 Our Supporters 25 YouHou: Spotlighting Houston’s Hotspots

MAGAZINE is the official magazine of Performing Arts Houston Caroline Senter Publication Editor Melanie O’Neill Design & Production Ventures Marketing Group Matt Ross Advertising 713.417.6857

On this page: Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández returns to Jones Hall on Saturday, FEB 8, 2025.

On the cover: New/Now: The Houston Artist Commissioning Project Winners.

Learn more on page 10. Photos by Claire McAdams.

Amplify Magazine — Spring 2025 | 1

AMPLIFYING the arts since 1966

Performing Arts Houston connects audiences with national and global touring artists, exploring a wide range of artistic genres. Each year, the organization presents full seasons of performances in the Theater District and throughout the city. Beyond the stage, the non-profit collaborates with artists, schools, and community partners to create engagement programs for all ages, including masterclasses, workshops, classroom programs, student matinees, and performance opportunities.

Since 2020, we have supported new works by local artists through the Houston Artist Commissioning Project. Founded in 1966, Performing Arts Houston has presented many of the most popular, celebrated, and culturally significant artists of our time.

Thank you to our sponsors

DANCE SERIES

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MUSIC SERIES

FAMILY SERIES

LEAD EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT UNDERWRITER

Pictured: Pianist Conrad Tao leading a masterclass at Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. Photo by Melissa Taylor.

UPCOMING Complexions Contemporary Ballet

FEB 8

Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández

FEB 12

Sō Percussion with Shodekeh Talifero

FEB 14–15

Jim Henson’s Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock

MAR 6–7

New/Now: The Houston Artist Commissioning Project

MAR 8

Meow Meow AN EVENING OF PURE CHAOS

MAR 19

Anoushka Shankar PART OF THE GLOBAL VOICES MUSIC SERIES

MAR 26

Les Arts Florissants: Vivaldi's Four Seasons at 300

MAR 28

Piano Battle: Andreas Kern vs. Paul Cibis WITH STUDENT MATINEE

MAR 29

Kodō Drummers of Japan: Warabe

APR 1 APR 10–11

Ladysmith Black Mambazo PART OF THE GLOBAL VOICES MUSIC SERIES Jim Henson's Labyrinth: In Concert

MAY 6

A Conversation with Amor Towles FEATURING BOOK SIGNING

JUN 2

Samara Joy GRAMMY WINNER

JUN 12

A Conversation with Tan France

JUN 26–27

EVENTS

FEB 1

Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo 50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

SECURE YOUR SEATS performingartshouston.org Les Arts Florissants: Vivaldi's Four Seasons at 300 MARCH 26, 7:30PM Cullen Theater, Wortham Center Baroque orchestra superstars join fast-rising violinist Théotime Langlois de Swarte to commemorate Vivaldi’s timeless masterpiece.

Amplify Magazine — Spring 2025 | 3

STAFF Meg Booth President & Chief Executive Officer Leslie Nelson Chief Financial Officer Jordan Drum Director of Development Brian Glass Director of Marketing Janette Hendrix Program Manager, Education & Community Engagement Ashley Johnson Patron Services Associate Caroline McCain Development Associate Brenda Oliveira Board Liaison & Executive Assistant Helena Oliver Development Manager, Individual Giving & Events Michelle Sclider Patron Services Manager Caroline Senter Public Relations Manager Jennifer Steiner Director of Operations Lee Strickland Director of Artistic Programming Phoebe Vo Accounting Manager Ashley Warner Director of Education and Community Engagement

Reach us!

713.227.4772 info@performingartshouston.org 615 Louisiana Street, Suite 100 Houston, Texas 77002-2715 Monday–Friday • 9AM–5PM The Box Office is open to in-person transactions up to 90 minutes before performances

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2024–2025

BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS H. William Swanstrom, Board Chair Vijay D’Cruz, Board Vice Chair

Curt D. Karges, Treasurer † Tymothi O. Tombar, Secretary

DIRECTORS Norah G. Adams S. Kris Agarwal Jeffrey A. Ball * Leah R. Bennett * Charles C. Boettcher * Brian D. Bravo Roxann Thomas Chargois Willie C.W. Chiang *† Charles D. Davidson* Tejuana L. Edmond Theresa A. Einhorn* Mary Fischer

DIRECTORS EMERITI James J. Postl Robert B. Tudor III Marcus A. Watts Meg Booth President and CEO John T. Jones Jr. Founder (1917-1994) Jesse H. Jones II President, Performing Arts Houston Foundation

Stephen M. Gill * Sean Gorman Melanie Gray *† Shawn K. Jackson G. Mark Jodon*† Wendy K.D. King Emily T. Kuo*† Joel Lambert Taylor E. Landry Ellen L. Levy Chad Michael Theresa Mallett *†

Ginni Mithoff Katherine Easterby Murphy Miki Lusk Norton Scott S. Nyquist * Salvador Pareja Armando A. Perez Amy Marlyse Plato Lance G. Reynolds Ann V. Rogers Marisol Salazar * Omar Samji Leslie Elkins Sasser

PERFORMING ARTS HOUSTON FOUNDATION Jesse H. Jones II, President Robert B. Tudor III, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary Willie C.W. Chiang, Trustee Melanie Gray, Trustee Charles D. Davidson, Trustee Theresa A. Einhorn, Trustee G. Mark Jodon, Trustee James J. Postl, Trustee Stephen M. Trauber, Trustee Marcus A. Watts, Trustee

Andrew B. Smith Kristina H. Somerville Stephen M. Trauber * Saul Valentin* Fernando Vizcaino Jason P. Wells Margaret Alkek Williams *

Executive Committee

†

Vice President/Committee Chair

FOUNDATION FOR JONES HALL, PERFORMING ARTS HOUSTON REPRESENTATIVES Meg Booth Vijay D’Cruz Charles D. Davidson Stephen M. Gill James J. Postl

PART OF THE CHIANG FAMILY SERIES

Piano Battle

MAR 28, 2025 • JONES HALL Tickets from $19 performingartshouston.org

Amplify Magazine — Spring 2025 | 5

ARTS TALK We’re inspired by the people who bring Houston’s vibrant art scene to life.

Time and again, our city fuels our creativity and purpose. These are the real stories of Houstonians who know, work with, and deeply love the performing arts.

Photos by Claire McAdams

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Vincent James

former dancer and longtime usher “I knew somehow, even as a high school student, that I was going to have a life in the arts. I didn't know what that looked like, but I knew that it…is it too cliché to say that it saved my life?

My community at home wasn't always safe. I didn't feel safe a lot of times talking about being in dance. Dance was a safe place, a disciplined place.

Eventually, I was able to help my family understand more about arts training. My parents, being wonderful people, weren't university people. They were hardworking and gave me a great life. They just didn't have any background on how to get their child who's interested in dance trained.

Dance was a safe place, a disciplined place.

I was fortunate enough to get into HSPVA. HSPVA offered me some really valuable training, at no cost, which was incredible. They helped me qualify for a scholarship and a conservatory after graduating. And I realized that I could do this as a career.

I came to a show by Performing Arts Houston, then it was Society for the Performing Arts, back in 2008. Being in the theater just put this kind of spark in me. I walked up to one of the usher managers at DLS Events, and I said, ‘I'm interested in coming to work for you.’ In that same moment, she connected me with the person I needed to talk to, and I went to work as an usher..

A year later, my mother died. I became homeless. The floor dropped out, and I had to find somewhere to live.

I was employed, but still homeless. But no matter what, when I got to work, I gussied up, I put on my suit and kept myself together. Someone would ask me how I’m doing.

And when you have nowhere to live, what do you even say to that? All I had was the theater and Performing Arts Houston. Somewhere within me, there was faith and hope. I knew I could always come back to the theater, put my suit on, and live in a different world. It was a refuge. It was like church.

In my final comment, I just want to say that...

I feel nourished and appreciated and ministered through the arts. Our lives are changed through the arts.

Amplify Magazine — Spring 2025 | 7

Dance has given me a voice in this world.

Angelica Villa

Houston-based dancer and dance educator “I always go to friends for help with, like, proofreading or if I have to write something important. I struggle forming the words or sentences that I want to communicate.

So, dance is my outlet. It’s the easiest way for me to process things or let things go. I mean, I’ve tried writing in a diary. It makes me feel a little bit better, but dancing just lets me feel whatever I’m feeling with my whole body instead of just with my mind. I feel it in my soul… in my whole body. I feel like if I don't get to move, I'm gonna burst.

Dance has given me a voice in this world that my actual voice couldn’t give me. I’m so grateful that my parents realized how much I needed to dance as a kid. I'm glad that they understand that it's part of who I am, and that it gives me a sense of belonging.

I feel like my brain is always running 24/7, overthinking every interaction I've ever had or every situation that could possibly happen next. But when I'm dancing, it's calm, it's silent. Some people go to the beach, and they hear the waves of the ocean hitting the shore, and they say they're relaxed. But dancing is when I’m relaxed. I feel calm. I feel like a normal person.”

Look out for more Arts Talk on our Instagram page, @performingartshouston

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Amplify Magazine — Spring 2025 | 9

NEW/NOW: THE HOUSTON ARTIST COMMISSIONING PROJECT March 6-7, 2025 Thursday | 7:30 pm Friday | 7:30 pm Cullen Theater, Wortham Center Duration: 100 minutes, including two 20-minute intermissions

My Posse’s on Broadway, by YUNGCHRIS -INTERMISSIONLast Day, County Fair, by Ben Chavez -INTERMISSIONOn Different Paths, by Marlon Simon See program insert for more details Sponsored in part by:

THE POWELL FOUNDATION

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Hudson Davis, Lighting Designer Andrew Harper, Sound Designer Madison Sutton, Stage Manager

YUNGCHRIS YUNGCHRIS is a globally recognized artist who has toured 24 countries as an educator, DJ, choreographer, and performer. He has shared the stage with iconic artists such as Sugar Ray, Pitbull, Flo Rida, Kendrick Lamar, Erykah Badu, Tobe Nwigwe, and Anthony Hamilton. YUNGCHRIS has earned numerous awards and grants for his exceptional artistry and productions. In 2015, he was honored as a Cultured Millennial by Rémy Martin Cognac and was named a Houston Cultural Influencer by Red Bull, serving as a consultant on dance and culture in

Texas. Additionally, YUNGCHRIS supports emerging creatives as a mentor through the Artist INC program, powered by Fresh Arts.

A two-time New/Now commissioned artist by Performing Arts Houston, YUNGCHRIS was first awarded in the inaugural year of New/Now in 2020 and again in 2024. As the director of Sonkiss'd Dance Concepts, he trains dancers who have gone on to work with major artists such as Sam Smith, Lizzo, Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, and Beyoncé.

My Posse’s on Broadway My Posse’s on Broadway is a tribute to the vibrant Houston Hip-Hop dance movement and the trailblazing artists who shaped the style in the early 1990s, reflecting on the genre's journey to Houston and celebrating where hip hop dance is today.

Anchored in the four core elements of Hip-Hop— music, art, poetry, and dance—this piece highlights the roots of Houston's Hip-Hop culture while inspiring young creatives to drive impactful change in the city’s arts scene. It aims to promote equity and enrich the audience’s appreciation of Hip-Hop dance culture. All performers in My Posse’s on Broadway are

Houston-based and deeply connected to the local Hip-Hop community.

In 2023, Hip-Hop celebrated its 51st anniversary, with Houston playing a pivotal role in its evolution.

The city’s influence shone on the global stage when "breakin'," the original form of Hip-Hop dance, debuted as an official sport in the 2024 Paris Olympics, featuring two Houston b-boys representing the United States.

As the legendary poet Notorious B.I.G. once said, "You never thought that Hip-Hop would take it this far."

Amplify Magazine — Spring 2025 | 11

Ben Chavez Ben Chavez is a Houston-based recording artist, actor, and musician. Best known for his breakout role in the Broadway National Tour of Disney’s Aladdin, he has performed on several stages across the USA and Canada, including Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden, and The Kennedy Center. Locally, Ben has appeared onstage at Theatre Under the Stars and in the Houston Grand Opera production of West Side Story.

As a recording artist, Ben has released a collection of songs documenting his journey through life, love, and self-acceptance, as well as new music for the holiday season. He composed songs for the 2024 feature film Intermedium along with his collaborator Yianni Papadimos. For more information, visit benchavezmusic.com.

Last Day, County Fair Last Day, County Fair is the newest collection of songs by Ben Chavez. This concept album documents an important day in the life of a celebrated hometown performer. Presented as a live concert event with storytelling, the piece follows the journey of a young man grappling with his identity in a small town where he doesn’t seem to fit in. What is the cost of loving unconditionally? Can we all belong, even if we disagree with each other?

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The piece is driven by a passion for uplifting the queer community, featuring flavors of Ben Chavez’s “old soul” music background, inspired by piano legends like Billy Joel and Elton John with notes of R&B, Country, and Soul. The soundtrack, accompanied by a live band, vocalists, and a bit of sparkle, is ultimately a celebration of life, otherness, and hope for unity.

Marlon Simon Venezuelan-born educator, percussionist, and composer Marlon Simon began playing music at the age of 10. Simon immigrated to the United States in 1987 and began formal percussion training at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia before obtaining his Bachelor of Arts degree in Jazz and Contemporary Music from the New School for Social Research. Simon went on to perform and record with artists such as Hilton Ruiz, Jerry Gonzalez, and Chucho Valdez. As leader of his band, Nagual Spirits, Simon has released seven albums and traveled the

world performing his original music. As a specialist in Afro-Caribbean rhythms and Latin jazz composition, he has conducted workshops, master classes, and seminars at Temple University, Penn State University, Rutgers University, Haverford College, the New Jersey ABC National Conference for Public Music School Teachers, and the Perkins Center for the Arts. In 2022, Simon was awarded the Guggenheim Fellowship by the Board of Trustees of the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation. Learn more about Marlon Simon at www.marlonsimon.com

On Different Paths In recent years, events have further divided our country, transforming the ways we connect and interact with one another. On Different Paths was created as a reflection on this ongoing conflict, blending elements of classical and jazz music through the lens of Afro-Caribbean rhythms and techniques. The piece serves as a representation of the integration and harmony that our society so desperately needs.

Amplify Magazine — Spring 2025 | 13

The best seats are just the beginning.

As a member, enjoy priority access to all new shows, exclusive savings, donor perks, and more.

Join today to be among the first to secure seats for the 25/26 Season, launching this spring. performingartshouston.org/memberships

DANCE SERIES

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MUSIC SERIES

FAMILY SERIES

On view at Holocaust Museum Houston Josef and Edith Mincberg Gallery January 24, 2025 - May 25, 2025 Exploring a decade of hardship, conflict, and state-sanctioned violence along the Texas border that threatened to destroy a community – a decade that led to a cultural renaissance and inspired the Mexican American civil rights movement. hmh.org/lifeanddeath García family, ca. 1920 Image courtesy of Robert Runyon Photograph Collection, RUN09442, The Dolph Briscoe Center for American History, The University of Texas at Austin

Originally produced by the Bullock Texas State History Museum in collaboration with Refusing to Forget.

MIX & MINGLE Performing Arts Houston members and supporters enjoyed multiple opportunities to rub elbows with artists following performances this fall. Here’s a recap (and humble brag) of some recent cast parties and artist filled soirées.

Dancers from Twyla Tharp Dance visited Lyric Bar to celebrate their September 28th performance with attendees, complete with signature cocktails and hors d’oeuvres from several Lyric Market food hall restaurants.

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On November 9th, Board Member Melanie Gray and her husband Mark Wawro hosted guests and the award-winning choir Tenebrae at their beautiful home following the group’s breath-taking performance at the Church of St. John the Divine, with catering provided by Swift + Company.

Visionary Tier members enjoy invitations to cast parties all season, as well as valet parking and pre-performance reception access. Learn more and explore all membership benefits at performingartshouston.org/memberships.

Board Member Chuck Boettcher and Meg Booth

Board Member Mark Jodon grabs a signature cocktail at the Lyric Bar

Twyla Tharp Dance members Daniel Ulbricht, and Daisy Kate Jacobson

Meg Booth, Twyla Tharp Dance member Reed Tankersley, Board Member Tejuana Edmond, and dancer Daniel Ulbricht

Members of Tenebrae and Helena Oliver

Don Yurewicz and Board Member Theresa Einhorn

Mimi Lloyd and Sarah Solomon

Members of Tenebrae

Performing Arts Houston members mingle with Tenebrae singers

Board Member Emeritus Bobby Tudor, Phoebe Tudor, Board Member Ellen Levy, and Joe Levy

Amplify Magazine — Spring 2025 | 17

Since its founding in 1966, Performing Arts Houston has brought cultural luminaries to the stages of the city’s Theater District.

For nearly as long, the organization has championed student engagement through one of Houston’s most enduring arts programs: the Student Art Contest.

Now in its 27th year, the contest continues to serve as a vital thread in the fabric of the city’s cultural landscape.

Launched in 1997, the contest celebrates the creative vision of students across the Greater Houston area, reaching from Tomball to Texas City and beyond. Its geographic reach mirrors the diversity of Houston itself—diverse not just in demographics but also in the artistic expression it encourages.

YOU MADE IT, KID

The Student Art Contest at 27

by Caroline Senter 18 | Performing Arts Houston | performingartshouston.org

The Student Art Contest is more than an exhibition of young talent. It’s an ongoing conversation between the stage and the canvas, with each year’s theme aligning with performances on Performing Arts Houston’s mainstage seasons that challenge conventional boundaries. The theme for 2002, “Expression of Emotion: Movement & Art,” paired with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s exploration of movement, while 2013’s “The Spirit of Cultural Celebration” echoed the music and storytelling of Lila Downs' celebration of Mexican heritage. These themes provide an entry point for students to engage with the art forms presented on stage, encouraging them to reflect on the world around them.

"I’ve been assisting with the Student Art Contest since the very beginning, and it’s always been an event I truly look forward to," says Theresa Mallett, a longtime board member and chair of the Education & Community Engagement Committee.

"It’s really a culmination of everything Performing Arts Houston does best: bringing people together to celebrate art, creating community, and facilitating meaningful conversation around art."

This year’s theme, “Out of the Box,” is inspired by boundary-pushing performances such as Scott Sliven’s At the Illusionist’s Table, Conrad Tao and Caleb Teicher’s Counterpoint, and Sō Percussion’s collaboration with breath artist Shodekeh Talifero. The theme invites students to explore the limits of their creativity,

Houston teacher, Ronda Stieber of St. John Paul II Catholic School, has overseen the participation of more than 1,400 students in the contest since 2005.

"The kids look forward to it every year," she says.

"It’s truly fun for all of us—discussing how the kids interpret the theme, sharing inspiration, and, of course, celebrating the participants at the ceremony."

The scope of the contest is remarkable: last year, nearly 500 submissions were received. Each entry is carefully adjudicated by a panel comprised of Performing Arts Houston staff, board members, and professional artists from the Houston community. "My involvement in the contest has spanned nearly two decades, with each year bringing a renewed sense of purpose and inspiration," says Dr. Sheng Kuan Chung, Professor of Art Education at the University of Houston. "My favorite part of the contest is witnessing the originality and passion of the students' work. I am particularly moved by how they incorporate their understanding of local and global issues, sparking conversations that resonate well beyond the contest."

2023

2010

2004 encouraging an openness to experimentation and new forms of artistic expression. “We try to set as few rules as possible,” says Ashley Warner, Performing Arts Houston’s Director of Education & Community Engagement. “We want the theme to inspire the work. Beyond that, we loosen the reins. Students can explore, have fun, and make something they’re really proud of.”

The winning works then embark on a tour, displayed at public libraries across Houston, taking their reach beyond the celebration.

For Stieber, the contest’s long-term impact is evident in the way it fosters student growth: “The opportunity for students to be recognized in a major competition in the City of Houston, in a well-judged competition, where they are also awarded for their mastery in artwork, has continued to be important toward their futures.”

Among the contest’s notable past winners is David Maldonado, a Houston muralist whose public works are transforming communities like Pasadena, TX and beyond. "Programs like the Student Art Contest are a huge part of what makes Houston special," he shares. "Exposure to the arts was critical in my path and Performing Arts Houston welcomes kids all over Houston to explore and engage in the arts."

As applications open for the 27th annual Student Art Contest, there is little doubt that this tradition will continue to shape the future of Houston’s arts community. K-12 students from across the Greater Houston area are invited to submit work created during the 2024-25 school year. For complete contest details and ways to support the program, visit performingartshouston.org/artcontest.

When the winning entries are announced, students and their families gather for a formal ceremony where the artwork is displayed in a gallery setting. Thanks to support from corporate and community partners, the winners receive a variety of prizes—cash, tickets to performances, art supplies, and gift certificates.

Amplify Magazine — Spring 2025 | 19

SAVE THE DATE

SATURDAY, APRIL 12, 2025 WORTHAM CENTER GRAND FOYER MARGARET AND BRIAN BRAVO, CHAIRS HONORING MEL ANIE GRAY AND MARK WAWRO

More information, including table pricing, tickets, and sponsorships opportunities, at performingartshouston.org/2025ball

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Join the conversation with the dance world's best and brightest.

Hosted by former Miami City Ballet Dancers Rebecca King Ferraro and Michael Sean Breeden, the Conversations on Dance podcast offers weekly chats with the movers and shakers of the dance world. Check out the latest episodes featuring Performing Arts Houston artists Desmond Richardson and Dwight Rhoden of Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Caleb Teicher, and Shohei Iwahama of Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo.

More at performingartshouston.org/cod

DANCE SERIES

Amplify Magazine — Spring 2025 | 21

INDIVIDUAL SUPPORTERS $50,000+ Linda and Willie Chiang Phoebe and Bobby Tudor $25,000-$49,999 Nancy G. and Charles D. Davidson Mignon and Stephen Gill Melanie Gray and Mark Wawro Lisa and Mustafa Parris-Cochinwala Mari Salazar Janet and Bill Swanstrom Margaret Alkek Williams Syma and Walt Zerkow $10,000-$24,999 Anonymous Ernesto D. Baca Kourtney and Vijay D'Cruz C.C. and Duke Ensell Kris and Mark Jodon Jesse H. Jones II and Terry Wayne Jones Curt and Stephany Karges John P. Keeton Emily T. Kuo and Michael Chu Sarah Knight Morgan and Oscar Brown Judy and Scott S. Nyquist Kristin and Lance Reynolds Leslie Elkins Sasser and Shannon Sasser Charlene and Tymothi O. Tombar Leticia and Stephen M. Trauber Jason P. Wells and Jenny Koehler Abigail Winn and Brad Crocker $5,000–$9,999 Norah G. Adams Rachelle and Jeff Ball Leah R. Bennett Daniel Boss Margaret and Brian Bravo Eric Brueggeman Tejuana L. Edmond Theresa A. Einhorn and Donald Yurewicz Carl and Mary Sapp Fischer Susan and Sean Gorman Melinda and Jeffrey Hildebrand Jeffrey Hopkins Yvonne and Mark Jacobs Wendy K.D. King and Warwick King Mimi Lloyd Marilyn Maloney and Paul Longstreth Theresa and Edward Mallett Ginni and Richard Mithoff Miki Lusk Norton and Ralph E. Norton Laura and Daniel Pears Corina and Armando Perez Beverly and Jim Postl Ann V. Rogers Andrew B. Smith Paola and Fernando Vizcaino Hannah and Paul Wolfert $3,000-$4,999 Sallie Morian and Michael Clark Elizabeth Collins Susan E. Denson Katrina L. Dibala Catherine and Nick Dunbar Tracy and Jim Fish Timothy G. Green Harry Grenader Mary Van and David Grindle Arianda and Richard Hicks Taylor and Daniel Kaufman Amy LeBlanc Katherine Easterby Murphy

Performing Arts Houston would like to thank the individuals who support our work through generous membership contributions and annual gifts. For more information on member and donor benefits, please visit performingartshouston.org or contact Jordan Drum at 713.632.8104 or jdrum@performingartshouston.org.

Kathryn O'Brien Robert Santana Lisa and Saul Valentin $1,000-$2,999 Anonymous (4) Carol Bates Alissa Blankenship Meg and Brandon Booth Julianne Brooks Ignacio Carrion Dominic Cellitti Sloan and Alec Clark Nell and Russell Clingman C.C. Conner and David Groover Annie and Will Cooper Cheryl and Percy Creuzot Carl R. Cunningham Susie and Joe Dilg Michael and Terri Dougherty Susan Guthrie Dunn Jenny Elkins Joe J. Fisher Jr. Caroline Freeman Katherine and Walker Hale Jennifer Hardy Sheila Heimbinder Tara Hemmer Jorge Hernandez Rachell L. Hill Joanne Houck and Tim Singletary Rochelle and Alan Jacobson Edith and Hastings Johnson John Jones Felicia and Perry Jordan Heather and Rusty Kelley Marjena Kohnke Erika Kusjanovic Kelle and Chris Lambert Eileen and Kase Lawal Juliet Lawrence Ellen and Joseph Levy Amy and Kevin Liles Larissa Lindsay and Stuart Bailey Pedro Lourenco Lindsey and Ryan MacLeod Theresa and Edward Mallett Maryann and Bryce Mannen Vickie L. Milazzo and Tom Ziemba Alifiya and Salvador Pareja Katrina Jackiewicz and Nick Peacock Amy Marlyse Plato and Kelly Plato Christina and Troy Porter Tricia and Alan Ratliff Mike Reed William S. Reynolds and Kathleen Williams Gary Rodriguez and Michael Ball Regina J. Rogers Gloria and Nick Ryan Manuel Solis Judy and Charles Tate Ann Chambers Taylor Mark Taylor Wilson Van Tine Holly A. Wolfert Gina and Joseph Wyszynski Monica and Larry Ziemba $500-$999 Anonymous Alim Adatia Chree Boydstun Melanie Camp Janet and John Carrig Tripp Carter David and Carol Cooper Hali and Bill Frasure

Laura and Robert Fullick Deborah C. Gordon and Nathan Coco Kim and Chris Graeter Jishnu Guha Claudio Gutierrez Ted Harwood Kevin Howard Scott P. Howard Lurlean Hunt Ken and Tracy Janda Darryl King Simone and Sean Maher Matt Main Mavin H. Martin and Neil E. Mellen Chris Montealegre Sydni and Ryan Mossman Barrett Naman Jim Oswald Katherine and Tim Pownell Melissa Reihle George Rissky Patrick Ryan Lindsay and Richard Strattan Charnette and Derek Taylor Kirin and Joe David Wells Randy Williams Davina and Lewis Wilson Neil Woods $250-$499 Anonymous (7) Rhona Aksoy Jeanna and Wesley Bamburg Melissa and Steven Batchelder E. Brietzke Sarah and Adam Brock Carol Brooks Berglass Laura and Christian Brown Richard Carter and Elizabeth Sjoberg Phillip Chang Sarah and Sean Clements Janine Corman Francisco Cruz Esme De La Cruz Ann Deaton Mariana and Paul Dickerson Sheila Duffy LaTanya Easter Douglas Elliott Mary and Mike Espinosa Kathy Flanagan Kristen Ford Jordan Fossee Kerri Francis Dana Levy Germain Mary Gleason Frances Gonzales Brenda Granderson Hicks Kimberly Green Holden Hamblen Isabella Hawkins Joshua Henke Susan Hightower Heather Hofstetter Malia Jones and Alex Stefan Nancy Jones Janice Kemp and John Kling The Kendrick Family Phil Leech Kristin Lenoir Janelle and Phillip Lewis Jonathan Love Mari Marchbanks Bri and Joe Martin Sherry Matthews Courtney and Cary Maurstad Ali McHenry Samita and Utpal Mehta

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Miroslava Mendiola Rise Montrell Leslie and Kent Nelson Felix Olobatuyi Kim Padgett Peri Patel David L. Peavy and Stephen R. McCauley Holley Rainwater Stu Redsun Michell Rios-Ordonez Elizabeth Rivera Julia and Thomas Pascal Williams Robinson Sherrie Robinson Shirley and John Rouse Justine and Frank Schageman Bryan Scrivner Tracey Shappro Sarah Shull and Sabi Balkanyi H. Colleen and Michael B. Silva Jr. Randal Smith Jeremy B. Sochol Kristina H. and Paul G. Somerville Don Sowell Jr. George Stoeckert Ashley Bales and Lee V. Strickland Edda Tinis Raul Villareal Lauren Waddell Whitney Wall Weighter and Jason Weighter A. and T. Waterhouse Emri and Adam Witas Sharon Yacob Frank Yeverino $100-$249 Anonymous (35) Amr Abouleish Clena Abuan Minerva Agustin Jessica Alcantara Patrice Alexander Jackson Alford Hedda Altamirano Maria Elena Alvarez Pharr Andrews Robert Andries Rachel Ansari Evette Aranas Heather and Reed Arnos Garima Arora Tanya Arora Natearah Austin Daniel Thomas Ayers Richard Baird Anne Marie Baker David Baker Kimberly Ballew Leigh Barbosa Anita and Bonner Barnes Anna Bass Kipp W. Baxter Kathy Belton Armando and Vanessa Benitez Annie H. Bernstein Marsha and Roger Bertholf Alex Besterman Ashlyn Blakeman Damian Blow Zarrina Bobokalonova Benjamin B. Bolger Greg Bowden Rebecca Braeutigam Richard Braverman Lisa Brenskelle The Bright Family

INDIVIDUAL SUPPORTERS James Britton George Brown Lisa Buckner Reed Bussey Cheryl Byington Wendy Campbell Tina Marie Campos Patricia Carnes Alicia Carranza Dewey Cash Lorenzo Castro Igor Chak Jackie Chang Charlene Charette Doris Cleveland John Clutterbuck Renay Cohen Clifford Collins Irina and David Cook Lawson Cooper Fred Corsiglia Gwendolyn Coscarelli Gigi Cox Rodney Cox Abigail Craig John Curtin Margaret Daniels Larry Danziger Lisa Darling Tina Marie Davenport Janet Davis Jeff Davis Kris Davis Lisa and Alan Davis James Dean Peter Dear and Wendy Prater Dear Michael and Carla Deavers Arden Decker Doris Dempsey Sheila Diombala Sarah DiPier Dan and Kathleen Duncan Jon and Katie Eichler Alexandra Emsley Fred Endelman Michael Engelhart Jesse Erickson Katie Esparza Gabriel Espitia Margarita Farias Chad T. Farley Marcia and Tom Faschingbauer Coreen Fazakerly Diane Felder David and Diane Ferrufino-Montague Joan Finn Matt Fiorillo Jesse Flores Suzanne Fong Bobbie Fontenot Mary Frazier Chris Funk Vanessa N. Gaona Mark Gartner Lynette L. Gascoigne Leslie Gassner Sonja Gee Diane and Harry Gendel Richard C. Glass Anna Goldberg Tammy Gomez Tyonia Gomez Breona Gonzalez Rene Gonzalez K. Goode Krisanne Graves and Christopher Harris William Green Susan Greenfield Yizhu Guan Mark Guerra Becky Bunnell Gumm Harrison Guy Chris Hadley MaryScott Hagle

Julie Hanson Brandi Harleaux Deborah Harris LaSchon Harris Yousuf Hasan Susie and Michael Hatfield Irene and Marc Helsinger Tristin Henry Gerardo Hernandez James Herrera Kari Hickman G.B. Hieshima Jan Hill Clarissa Hinojosa Jesus Hinojosa Alyssa Holland Alba Huerta Nicholas Hussey Andrew F. Icken Chandria Jackson Joyce Busch Jackson Michael Jackson Rafael Jarquin Corrie Jenkins Stephen Jeu Sheila Jobe Andrea Johannes Alex Johnson Myrtle Jones Kresimir Josic Jamie Jung Indra Kartawidjaja Shagandeep Kaur Tracey Kearny Lori Kennedy Sohyen Kim Danny Kirkpatrick Nikola Kivett Jennifer Kocian Jenny Koehler Alex Kosmala Erin and Jeff Kraus Miguel Kremenliev Ilianna Reyna Kuntz Patrick Lamb Rosie Lang Jillian Lara Nancy and Andrew Lattu Shirley Lee Tina Lee and Joel Smith Elizabeth Leos Amber Lewis Devin Licata Ruben Lizaola Vickie Lofton Delena Logan Pedro Lopez Linda Lorelle and Lou Gregory Marisa Lozano Jason Luong Courtney Lyons Jessica MacDonald Noelle MacGregor L. Elena Macha Melissa and Stewart Foster Sean Mahan S. Mak Manuel Garcia Maldonado Roger Maldonado Neha Malik Ari Malka Paul Manino and Elizabeth Cloninger Natalie Marsh Stephen Marsh Charlotte Marsh-Jiles Alex Martinez and Anita Shahani Javier Martinez The Honorable Joaquin Martinez Kim Martin-Long Megan Mason J. McCormick Sheryl McCurdy Ashley and Robert McDonough Jeff McFarland Alicia McGhee

Yvonne McIntyre Ron McKeithen Brian Meigh Rosalinda Mendez Kara Mings Annette Moise Curtis Monroe and Kelli Woody Juan Montelongo Desiree Moore Deboraha Mora Jordan Morgan Cheryl Murphy Nicole Murray Doris J. Myles Andrew C. Navarre Margarita Navarro Lynn Nazareth Kharyne Neptune Marc and Duyen Nguyen Kelly Nicholls Katherine Nix Ryan Nobles Judith D. Nordgren Derek Novak Almas Obinna Maxwell Ocansey Melanie O'Neill Leah Oren-Palmer Brenda Orozco Ronke Osibajo Michael Palmer Juan Pena Sharon Peoples R.L. Perez Chadwick Peters Kay Peterson Kim Pilcher Marie and Douglas Polega Casey Potter Ronda Prince Rigo Puga Liliya Quebedeaux Alice Quinn Schwarz Diana Quintanilla Florante A. Quiocho Luis E. Ramirez Charlie and Frankie R. Diana Reyes Ragan Rhodes Jonathan Richard Alicia Richardson Denise N. Richardson-Brown Thomas Roberts Jane and Alex Robinson Sylvia Rocha Shalla Rogers Joseph M. Rojas Ryan Rongone Atin Rosen Rozanne and Howard Rubin William Rubio Alexander Rush Matthew Ryan Tina Saenz Desiree Samei Rabia and Omar Samji Cesareo Sanchez Michael Sanchez Sharon Sanders Ed Schneider Carrie Schultz Beth Scimemi Soren Boyd Andrea and Charles Seay Dionel Segura Sara Speer Selber Nadia Serrano Simental Jeffrey Shaw Jim Simon Deepa Singh Katherine Singleton Andrew Smith Beverly Smith Phillip Smith Sydney and Allen Smith

Fade Soboyejo Kevin Solomon Jeannine Soto John Spelman Trina Stanfield Debbie and Gene Straka Victoria Stratton Joycelyn Streator Rocio Subira Hellen Sutley Caitlin Sutton Bharat Swatantran Corey M. Tay Stephanie Taylor Kerry-Ann Thompson Elizabeth Troxler Brenda Turley Calissa Ubi Lesly Van Dame Mary and Martin Vandenbrook Naomi Ventura Irma and Julio Villatoro John M. Vitucci Janice Wagner David Wainwright Elizabeth Walker Emily Weinstein Joyce M. Wellman Susan West E.W. Wey Paula and Richard Wilbourn Yann Wilhelm Kirk Wilhelmus Edward Willey III and Aramis Willette Jennifer Williams Julisa Williams Chris Williamson Carrie Wirsing Cynthia Wolff Christine Wong Melissa Yarborough Jasmine Young Kyuson Yun Jean Zoppe

Amplify Magazine — Spring 2025 | 23

INSTITUTIONAL PARTNERS Performing Arts Houston is proud to recognize our corporate, foundation, and government partners for their exemplary community leadership and support. To learn more about partnership opportunities and benefits, please contact Jordan Drum at 713.632.8104 or jdrum@performingartshouston.org.

CORPORATE PARTNERS $50,000+ Admiral Transfer & Rigging CenterPoint Energy ConocoPhillips† ExxonMobil† H-E-B† Le Méridien Houston Downtown* Shell*

McCoy Rockford, Inc. Motiva Enterprises LLC Plains All American TD Securities Troutman Pepper Locke LLP† Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP WM*

$25,000-$49,999

$5,000–$9,999

Kirksey* Wells Fargo† Westwood Wealth Management

$10,000–$24,999 711 FIT* City Kitchen*

Architectural Floors* Bank of Texas Bracewell LLP CAMAC International Corporation Collaborate The Friedkin Group† Houston First Corporation* JP Morgan Private Bank

Legacy Community Health Services PNC Porter Hedges LLP StoneTurn Group Truist Vinson & Elkins LLP

$1,000-$4,999 BrightStar* Coterra Energy Inc. LD Systems* Littler Vision Production Group

FOUNDATIONS & GOVERNMENT AGENCIES $100,000+

$25,000-$49,999

Houston Endowment, Inc. The Humphreys Foundation† Texas Commission on the Arts † Texas Tourism Industry Recovery Program The Wortham Foundation, Inc. †

The Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts † Houston Arts Alliance through the City of Houston M.D. Anderson Foundation† Vivian L. Smith Foundation

$50,000-$99,999

$10,000-$24,999

†

The Brown Foundation, Inc. † The Elkins Foundation Powell Foundation

National Endowment for the Arts† Vivian L. Smith Foundation

$5,000-$9,999 Anonymous George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation† Lyrasis

Kayser Foundation Memorial Hermann Foundation Mid-America Arts Alliance

MATCHING GIFT SUPPORTERS BASF Corporation Chevron Coterra Energy Inc.

ExxonMobil † LyondellBasell

Listings Accurate as of 12/6/2024

24 | Performing Arts Houston | performingartshouston.org

Phillips 66 Truist *Includes in-kind support † Indicates 10+ years of consecutive support

YOUHOU

Spotlighting Houston’s Hotspots We like to consider ourselves pretty well-versed in the world of fine arts, but when it comes to dining, we lean on our Performing Arts Houston foodie fans for their recommendations on the best spots to eat during a trip to the Theater District. Whether you’re on the way to a performance, meeting friends, or just looking for libations, check out these hotspots, with options to please every taste.

HELLO, STEAMY BUNS!

PARK AT THE LYRIC GARAGE FOR SAFE & SECURE PARKING.

Wanna Bao

Lyric Market

2708 Bagby St

411 Smith St

Dumpling fans, this is for you!

Located just a quick 5-minute drive from Jones Hall, Wanna Bao offers classic Chinese dishes in a contemporary yet cozy setting (with free parking!!!). The menu boasts pork belly dishes, jasmine tea-smoked duck, and plenty of vegetarian offerings.

For dessert, Nutella & Banana Xia Long Bao. Need we say more?

Lyric Market is Downtown’s newest food hall, located within walking distance from any venue in the Theater District. If your dining squad can’t agree on a cuisine, Lyric Market has it all, with restaurants ranging from Cajun to Mexican, Indian to BBQ, and beyond. Visit the Lyric Market bar for delicious cocktails!

PRO-TIP: MAKE A RESERVATION!

Tiny Champions 2617 McKinney St

Pizza? Pasta? We’re in. Located in EADO, just 1.5 miles from the Theater District, Tiny Champions is a trendy, casual spot for heartwarming food, a wide variety of natural wines, and craft cocktails. When the weather is nice, opt for patio seating! Plus, Tiny Champions stays open late on weekends— perfect for post-show dining.

Share Your Favorite Hotspots We’re always looking for more hotspots to share! Scan below to take our YouHou survey and add your picks to the list. Plus, you'll be entered into a monthly drawing for FREE tickets!

The Trocks are BACK!

“A guaranteed hoot for people who know nothing of ballet and an absolute must for those who think they know the originals.”

—Sydney Star Observer

Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo 30th Anniversary Celebration Cullen Theater, Wortham Center | June 26-27

On sale now! performingartshouston.org