Amplify Magazine, Fall '25 | Presented by Performing Arts Houston

amplify

FA L L 2025

m a g a zin e

ANNOUNCING THE 2025-2026 NEW/NOW WINNERS Meet the locals making a huge splash in Houston arts

ICYMI: SOLANGE KNOWLES’ & SAINT HERON’S ELDORADO BALLROOM HOUSTON The homegrown homage to Houston’s Third Ward

FRIENDS OF CHAMBER MUSIC e a s oC n oncert Series 33 00t htsh

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2025–2026

ANNA LAPWOOD, organ “She had rightly become the world’s most visible organist.”

September 19, 2025 | Fri, 7pm A&M United Methodist Church

SOLD OUT

In collaboration with A&M UMC

DREAMERS’ CIRCUS fiddle, accordion, piano, cittern

October 29, 2025 | Wed, 7pm Ice House on Main

Nordic folk + your favorite beverage Historic ambiance sponsored by Ice House

DANISH STRING QUARTET “There are simply two kinds of string quartets: the Danish, and the others.”

November 19, 2025 | Wed, 7 pm First Presbyterian Church

FREE

CANADIAN BRASS “The world’s most famous brass group”

February 1, 2026 | Sun, 5pm A&M United Methodist Church In collaboration with A&M UMC

CANTUS | Land That I Love Low-voice a cappella ensemble

April 17, 2026 | Fri, 7pm

FREE

George H.W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum All concerts take place in Bryan–College Station, TX Appelt Family Foundation Nina Heard Astin Charitable Trust

Eugene Edge III Charitable Trust Rea Charitable Trust

Nina Astin Winkler Charitable Trust

fcmtx.org

On this page: Hung Dance, performing Birdy at Cullen Theater, Wortham Center, NOV 21-22 On this cover: Theater District Open House, photo by Sara Buchsbaum

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

table of contents 3 8 14 16 20 22 25

Upcoming Events All in Good Taste with H-E-B: Find a Wine to Wine-down With Movement Work by Aris Kian Meet the 2025-26 New/Now Winners The Afterglow: Solange Knowles’ & Saint Heron’s Eldorado Ballroom Houston Our Supporters Houston Creates amplify magazine — Fall 2025 | 1

WELCOME WELCOME WELCOME WELCOME WELCOME maybe we’ve met If you've seen Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, David Sedaris, or Blue Man Group in Houston—or a thousand other unforgettable artists—there's a good chance that was us. We’re the ones bringing the world to the stage, inviting all to see.

The theater is a place of mythic wonder. Amazing things can happen. More often than not—they do.

Take your time. Soak it in. Keep the best moments with you. And come back—what’s next at Performing Arts Houston might surprise you.

FAMILY SERIES

DANCE SERIES MUSIC SERIES

2 | Performing Arts Houston | performingartshouston.org

LEAD EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT UNDERWRITER

upcoming events

and — we're live! fall 2025 SEP 14

Jeff Goldblum & the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra

OCT 4

Aristo Sham: 2025 Van Cliburn Gold Medalist

OCT 8

An Evening with Samin Nosrat

OCT 20

An Evening with Jane Fonda

OCT 21

Lila Downs: Día de los Muertos

OCT 24

TwoSet Violin

NOV 4

An Evening with David Sedaris

NOV 12

Mariza

NOV 14–15

Step Afrika!: The Migration

NOV 21–22

Hung Dance: Birdy

winter 2026 DEC 12

A Time For Three Holiday

DEC 23–24

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

JAN 16–17

Ballet Hispánico: CARMEN.maquia

JAN 22

Chris Thile

JAN 29

Blade Runner Live

JAN 31-FEB 1

Gazillion Bubble Show

FEB 26

Mnozil Brass: Strau$$

spring 2026 MAR 3

Vitamin String Quartet: The Music of Billie Eilish, Bridgerton & Beyond

MAR 5

Alexander Malofeev, Piano

MAR 6–8 MAR 12–22 MAR 14 MAR 20–21

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Mrs Krishnan’s Party Lúnasa New/Now

APR 7–12

Blue Man Group: Bluevolution World Tour

APR 16

Neil deGrasse Tyson: An Astrophysicist Goes to the Movies, Part II

summer 2026 MAY 1

Rhiannon Giddens

MAY 7

Cameron Carpenter, Organ

JUN 12–13

Ballets Jazz Montréal: Dance Me, Music by Leonard Cohen

JUN 19–21

Riverdance: 30th Anniversary World Tour

Your seat’s waiting Why just attend when you can belong? Become a member from just $25/year. performingartshouston.org | @PerformingArtsHouston

amplify magazine — Fall 2025 | 3

the rundown on why each show is actually amazing

TWOSET VIOLIN OCT 24 Classical music IS fun. Violinists turned YouTube mega stars bring fresh energy and fun. One second, you’re laughing. The next, you’re like “woah.”

AN EVENING WITH DAVID SEDARIS NOV 4 Houston’s obsessed with David for a good reason. If you haven’t read his work, stop by Brazos Bookstore, fix that immediately. Then, get tickets.

MARIZA NOV 12 Fado is Portuguese blues music, and Mariza OWNS this genre.

Don't text your ex--come see Mariza instead.

JEFF GOLDBLUM & THE MILDRED SNITZER ORCHESTRA SEP 14 Plot twist: Jeff plays jazz.

ARISTO SHAM: 2025 VAN CLIBURN GOLD MEDALIST OCT 4 The newly minted Cliburn Competition Gold Medalist plays Beethoven & more.

STEP AFRIKA! THE MIGRATION NOV 14–15 The world’s premier stepping company goes hard. Their latest work brings American history to life. Step up and get those tickets!

HUNG DANCE: BIRDY NOV 21–22 This STUNNING dance company from Taiwan makes their Houston debut.

AN EVENING WITH SAMIN NOSRAT OCT 8

A TIME FOR THREE HOLIDAY DEC 12

If you’ve ever eaten food you need this. The all-around wonderful chef and author of Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat talks her new book—Good Things.

Enjoy fresh renditions without ad breaks or holiday shopper hordes by these GRAMMY®-winning charmers. Fa La La La Ahhhhhh.

AN EVENING WITH JANE FONDA OCT 20

CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE DEC 23–24

Jane is literally iconic. Activism, acting, and living legend energy in one evening.

Acrobats in your holiday dreams?

Yes, please. Bring the fam for a holiday spectacular the opposite of stuffy.

LILA DOWNS: DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS OCT 21

JAN 16–17

Lila’s performances sell out for a good reason—it’s a celebration of music and family like no other. Day of the Dead done right.

Carmen reimagined and serves looks. Bold, rhythmic, culturally rich, with Picasso-inspired design.

Freakin’ fierce.

4 | Performing Arts Houston | performingartshouston.org

BALLET HISPÁNICO: CARMEN.MAQUIA

CHRIS THILE JAN 22

LÚNASA MAR 14

Cool in a genius-musician kind of way, making the highest mastery look like the easiest thing in the world.

Hold my green beer. Irish music as good as it gets, locked-in.

BLADE RUNNER LIVE JAN 29

NEW/NOW MAR 20-21

No cap, you’re not ready. Prime Harrison Ford with the music played live.

Mezclada Dance, Kay Prince, and Kinetic Ensemble make works just for HOU.

GAZILLION BUBBLE SHOW JAN 31–FEB 1

BLUE MAN GROUP APR 7-12

Blowing bubbles but make it cool. With magic and—are you kidding??—LASERS.

Three blue bald guys = legendary entertainment. If their next big show doesn’t come to Houston, you can’t call it a World Tour.

MNOZIL BRASS: STRAU$$ FEB 26

NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON: AN ASTROPHYSICIST GOES TO THE MOVIES • APR 16

Your favorite brass player’s favorite brass players. Formed in a pub, not a concert hall, these guys do some crazy stuff.

Houston’s science dad takes on Hollywood. Spoiler: some movies would not work IRL.

VITAMIN STRING QUARTET MAR 3

RHIANNON GIDDENS MAY 1

The world's most popular strings play the music of Billie Eilish, Bridgerton, and more.

She’s so good. Whatever you think folk music is, this is what’s real and what it can be.

ALEXANDER MALOFEEV, PIANO MAR 5

CAMERON CARPENTER, ORGAN MAY 7

Watching this pianist is like Formula 1— risky, thrilling, completely in control.

“The punk of organ,” brings glitter and technical perfection to Bach and an EPIC Pictures at an Exhibition.

ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER MAR 6–8

BALLETS JAZZ MONTRÉAL: DANCE ME, MUSIC BY LEONARD COHEN • JUN 12–13

Ailey is tradition. Ailey is the place to see and be seen. Ailey is Revelations.

Google it and prepare to understand.

The dance Cohen’s music deserves. Timeless and seductive.

Exhibition.

MRS KRISHNAN’S PARTY MAR 12-22

RIVERDANCE JUN 19–21

It's a party! An immersive theater event where attendees can join the fun.

30 years of pageantry and legendary leg muscles.

Perfect timing for Houston’s World Cup games. amplify magazine — Fall 2025 | 5

2025–2026

board of directors

staff Meg Booth President & Chief Executive Officer Brenda Oliveira Board Liaison & Executive Assistant

artistic programming & operations Jennifer Steiner Director of Operations Lee Strickland Director of Artistic Programming

development Jordan Drum Director of Development Nicole Oliva Development Manager Caroline McCain Senior Development Associate Seth Nicholas Development Associate

Vijay D’Cruz Chair

Tejuana L. Edmond Vice President, Marketing & Sales

Charles Boettcher, Sr. Vice Chair

Melanie Gray Vice President, Special Projects

Curt D. Karges Treasurer & Vice President, Finance & Audit

Theresa Mallett Vice President, Education & Community Engagement

Tymothi O. Tombar Secretary Willie C.W. Chiang Vice President, Nominating & Governance

executive committee members

directors

S. Kris Agarwal Jeffrey A. Ball Leah R. Bennett Meg Booth, Ex Officio Charles D. Davidson Theresa A. Einhorn Stephen M. Gill Sean Gorman G. Mark Jodon Emily T. Kuo Scott S. Nyquist Marisol Salazar H. William Swanstrom Stephen M. Trauber Jason P. Wells

Norah G. Adams Esi Akinosho Brian Bravo Roxann Thomas Chargois Mary Fischer Wendy K.D. King Joel Lambert Taylor E. Landry Ellen Levy Chad Michael Ginni Mithoff Katherine Easterby Murphy Michaelene Lusk Norton Salvador Pareja Armando A. Perez

education

directors emeriti

Ashley Warner Director of Education and Community Engagement

James J. Postl Robert B. Tudor III Marcus A. Watts

Janette Hendrix Program Manager, Education & Community Engagement

John T. Jones Jr. Founder (1917-1994)

finance Leslie Nelson Chief Financial Officer Phoebe Vo Accounting Manager

marketing & communications Brian Glass Director of Marketing Caroline Senter Public Relations Manager Michelle Sclider Patron Services Manager Ashley Johnson Patron Services Associate Jacqueline Vazquez Box Office Associate Drew Ritch Box Office Associate

6 | Performing Arts Houston

Saul Valentin Vice President, Development

Lance G. Reynolds Omar Samji Leslie Elkins Sasser Andrew B. Smith Kristina H. Somerville Fernando Vizcaino Jeffrey Webber Margaret Alkek Williams

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 James J. Postl, Trustee H. William Swanstrom, Trustee Stephen M. Trauber, Trustee Marcus A. Watts, Trustee

performing arts houston representatives, foundation for Jones Hall Meg Booth Charles D. Davidson Stephen M. Gill Scott S. Nyquist James J. Postl

performingartshouston.org

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater MAR 6–8

announcing every tenth seat

Learn more or help us create life-changing experiences at performingartshouston.org/tenthseat

Photo by Melissa Taylor

With the help of lead sponsor ExxonMobil, we're excited to announce Every Tenth Seat: Arts For All, a breakthrough commitment allocating 10% of tickets for 100% arts access for students, veterans, and community partners. On the 25/26 Season, that's over 10,000 tickets to the future of the arts and our city.

EVERY TENTH SEAT LEAD SPONSOR

amplify magazine — Fall 2025 | 7

all in good taste with Here, everything really is better! Our friends at H-E-B have hand selected wine with flair to accompany every twist, turn, and toast this season. Check out their perfect pairings, find them for sale by the glass at the bars in our venues, and grab a bottle of your own from your local H-E-B, all starting at under $30. Swirl, sip, sit back, and enjoy.

Wines were selected by H-E-B wine experts Ashley Guillen and Clayton Brooks 8 | Performing Arts Houston | performingartshouston.org

1

Jeff Goldblum & the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra September 14, 2025 Red: Chateau Virecourt Pillebourse Bordeaux*

White: Underwood Pinot Gris* This Pinot Gris is one cool cat! Soft and gentle, with layers and depth of flavor just waiting to be explored. This wine captivates the nostalgic and easy-going vibes of the Orchestraeffortless but impactful, with peppy citrus notes and a smooth finish.

We’ve chosen a wine that’s all about coziness, comfort and good vibes- Chateau Virecourt Pillebourse Bordeaux Supérieur.

Like smooth jazz, it’s simultaneously rebellious and avant-garde yet comforting and nostalgic. As you enjoy the smooth stylings of the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra, let the velvety and smooth tannins of this Cabernet/Merlot blend fill your palette with spontaneity and finesse.

2

2025 Van Cliburn Piano Competition Gold Medalist, Aristo Sham October 4, 2025

*Sorry! These wines will only be available in the Green Room and Cast Party! But seriously, swing by H-E-B to pick up these wines! Smooth as Jeff's jazz.

3

An Evening with Samin Nosrat October 8, 2025

Red: Lini 910 Lambrusco

Red: Masi Campofiorin

Lambrusco is Northern Italy’s not-sowell-kept secret. It’s a lighthearted red sparkling wine that is classically made but also unique to the modern American wine-scape. Van Cliburn Gold Medalist Aristo Sham also embodies such a mindset: a respect for the classics with his own youthful and contemporary spin.

While the maestro tickles the ivory with liveliness and gusto, enjoy the playful nature of Lini 910 with its fresh red fruit bouquet with a crispy dry finish.

Bringing Tart cherry, a little earth, and an easy warmth make it the kind of red you want around when the conversation gets good. It’s generous without showing off — just like Samin’s cooking.

Rooted in tradition but always full of joy, this wine invites you to slow down, pass the bread, and stay a little longer.

White: Pierre Sparr Alsace Riesling This Riesling is crisp and refreshing, showcasing notes of pear and nectarine balanced with a zippy acidity that’s hard to resist. What better way to enjoy Sham’s unique renditions of German icons Beethoven and Bach than with a distinctly French interpretation of an iconic German grape?

STOP BY THE WINE BAR FOR A GLASS, OR SHOP YOUR LOCAL

White: Welcome to Italy Pinot Grigio Zippy and full of charm, Welcome to Italy Pinot Grigio captures Samin Nosrat’s secret sauce: joy, balance and serious flavor without taking itself too seriously. This is a classic Chef’s Selection- it pairs easily with a variety of dishes, and its exceptional quality for the price ensures you won’t feel bad using a little splash to deglaze your pan!

FOR A BOTTLE OF YOUR OWN. amplify magazine — Fall 2025 | 9

4

An Evening with Jane Fonda October 20, 2025

Red: Ondarre Primeur Rioja

5

Elegant, grounded, and unapologetically bold — this Rioja brings structure and soul to the table.

Like Jane, it’s aged with intention: smooth, layered, and built to speak with quiet authority. A wine for thoughtful conversation, sharp wit, and knowing exactly when to take the gloves off.

October 24, 2025

Red: Dona Paula Cabernet Franc

A refreshing companion to a night full of stories, song, and soul. This white blend mirrors the vibrant colors and joyful spirit of Lila Downs’s music with its crisp acidity and intense fruit flavors. This is a versatile white wine that balances celebration and reflection.

7

Like TwoSet Violin, this is a bold reimagining of a timeless classic, blending centuries old music with modern wit and unfiltered creativity.

Dona Paula Cabernet Franc has earthy roots and an expressive edge that mirrors TwoSet’s ability to honor tradition while playfully pushing the boundaries.

White: Daou Rose This Rose is a radiant expression of elegance and charm, much like this duo’s playful brilliance. Its bright, refreshing character mirrors Brett & Eddy’s ability to make the classical feel effortlessly modern and approachable.

STOP BY THE WINE BAR FOR A GLASS, OR SHOP YOUR LOCAL 10 | Performing Arts Houston | performingartshouston.org

Red: E. Guigal Cotes du Rhone

White: Pine Ridge White Blend

Graceful with a quiet edge, this Vouvray is as layered and luminous as Jane herself. It’s soft but not sweet, never ever boring — the kind of wine that keeps evolving with every sip.

A perfect match for someone who’s always known how to reinvent herself without losing her depth.

TwoSet Violin

October 21, 2025

Bold, vibrant, and deeply expressive, this Côtes du Rhône blend carries the spirit of tradition with a fresh, powerful voice — much like Lila Downs herself. Rich with ripe red fruit and earthy complexity, it honors heritage while celebrating boldness and resilience.

White: Maison de Riviere Vouvray

6

Lila Downs: Dia de Los Muertos

An Evening with David Sedaris November 4, 2025

Red: Louis Jadot Beaujolais Village David Sedaris reminds us that it’s ok to be funny and not too serious every now and then. His books are both thoughtprovoking and humorous, bringing a spark of wit into an ever more uncertain future.

What better wine to embody this optimism and cheekiness than Jadot’s Beaujolais?

It is light and fresh, juicy and fruity, with a pleasant dry finish, that reminds it’s alright to break conventions from time to time.

White: Yealands Sauvignon Blanc This Sauvignon Blanc’s bright, crisp and unexpected character is the perfect match for turning David’s sharp wit, poignant self-reflection and everyday absurdities into laugh out loud storytelling.

FOR A BOTTLE OF YOUR OWN.

9

Step Afrika!

November 14–15, 2025 Red: Petite Petite by Michael David Just like Step Afrika’s precise and captivating movements, Petite Petite is a powerful, impactful wine that moves to its own rhythm, keeping time between the balance of mouthwatering acidity and percussive tannin.

8

White: The Wolf Trap by Boekenhoutskloof White Blend Step into history with ‘The Great Migration’, then sip into something just as vibrant. The Wolf Trap White Blend merges Viognier, Chenin Blanc and Grenache Blanc to a dazzling and powerful effect.

All at once filled with notes of melon, gingerbread and honeysuckle, this wine is articulate and meaningful- making it the perfect partner to an evening of powerful storytelling and unforgettable footwork.

Mariza

November 12, 2025 Red: Alexander Valley Vineyards Homestead Red Blend Mariza and her authentic Portuguese genre of music, Fado, are characterized by melancholic, soulful and introspective themes.

What is most inspiring about Fado music, however, is its message of hope and optimism throughout the sadness. AVV Homestead Red Blend compliments the passion in Mariza’s music. A blend of Merlot, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Syrahthe wine shows boldness and lightness at the same time. It’s a thought-provoking blend: one to spend time with, reflecting on its depth of flavor and our own personal range of emotions.

10

White: Banfi Principessa Gavi Mariza sings with luminous clarity and emotional depth, much like Banfi Principessa Gavi. Bringing bright citrus, green apple, and mineral notes that offer a clean, elegant finish that lingers like a final perfect note.

STOP BY THE WINE BAR FOR A GLASS, OR SHOP YOUR LOCAL

Hung Dance

November 21–22, 2025 Red: Brady Zinfandel The sharp, poignant and powerful dance stylings of Hung Dance recall the intensity and energy of a well-made Zinfandel. This wine is pure power, with notes of plum, blueberries and a peppery finish.

Brazy Zinfandel packs a punch and is unafraid to stand on its own.

White: Raimat Albarino With crisp acidity and delicate floral finish, Raimat Albarino moves like the dancers of Birdy- precise, poised, and deeply expressive. It’s a pairing that balances elegance with edge, grounded tradition with modern grace.

FOR A BOTTLE OF YOUR OWN. amplify magazine — Fall 2025 | 11

In memory of Walt Zerkow (1951-2025)

Thank you, Walt, for decades of support.

— Performing Arts Houston

ELEVATE YOUR EVENINGS AT

PLAN YOUR VISIT

lemeridienhoustondowntown.com

amplify magazine — Fall 2025 | 13

work movement

by Aris Kian

I’ve long contemplated moving out of this city—the bayou-blue of my childhood, this concrete metropolis carved out and paved over time and time again. Every flood or freeze or freeway closure carries reasons that could fill an entire carry-on for that first flight out. Jacob Lawrence understood this struggle, magnified over 80

Step Afrika!’s The Migration (Nov 14-15 • Jones Hall) takes inspiration from the work of painter Jacob Lawrence depicting the Great Migration—the historic movement of African Americans from the South to the North in the 1900s. We asked former Houston Poet Laureate Aris Kian to write an essay drawing on the significance of Step Afrika's piece and Aris' own connection to the subject. You can join Aris for a Performing Arts Houston & Inprint Writing Workout on November 1.

years ago, when he archived this persistent history with The Migration Series, after which this very show was created, combining the cross-cultural movements of the Black diaspora. Consider movement in its many forms: the bended knee and bowed head, the curled fist above a crowd, the rush that rides every highway

14 | Performing Arts Houston | performingartshouston.org

in me when a neighbor asks for help: to chop down trees after a storm or to gather in solidarity outside of city hall. I’m reminded of the fight-or-flight my body begs of me—my blood’s birthright trip towards every pulsing limb pleading to be moved.

Still, it is a practice to drive the lifted foot in front of the other, then again. No matter your instinct, leaving behind what you know to seek a safety you don’t takes an exercise of the imagination, in believing there to be solid ground wherever you place your feet. Step Afrika! is one entryway into that exercise. Whether a community decides to migrate to a new city or to migrate towards new waves of thought and direct action, both require movement that is prepared, practiced and people-powered. When we synchronize our steps and

match each other’s breath, we better our ability to build a future worth protecting. I dare you to imagine these dancers as your neighbors; every clap: a hand held, every stomp: a safe landing. There are as many good reasons to leave Houston as there are to stay, and here we are again, despite all, because of one another. I ask you: what moves you to sweat, towards a staggered breath?

What can knock the wind from you and carry you still? What more do you need to take that first step?

about the author Aris Kian is a Houston enthusiast and student of abolition. Her poems are published with Button Poetry, West Branch, Obsidian Lit, The West Review, Write About Now and elsewhere. As an Inprint C. Glenn Cambor Fellow, she received her MFA from the University of Houston and received the 2022 Inprint Marion Barthelme Prize in Creative Writing. Her team Smoke Slam ranked #1 at the 2025 Bigfoot Regional Poetry Slam and #1 at the 2024 Southern Fried Poetry Slam. She ranked #2 in the 2023 Womxn of the World Poetry Slam. Kian previously served as the 20232025 Houston Poet Laureate and was selected as a 2025 Ruth Lilly and Dorothy Sargent Rosenberg Poetry Fellow.

amplify magazine — Fall 2025 | 15

introducing 2025-26

Every year, Performing Arts Houston’s New/Now commissioning and premieres, supports, promotes, and presents new works from Houston's most promising artists. We're thrilled to announce this year's commissioned artists: Mezclada Dance Company led by Joel Aguilera, Kay Prince, and Kinetic Ensemble.

These three visionaries create artistic programs that illuminate the stories and creative spirit thriving throughout our city. As they develop their premieres, they join a distinguished lineage of Houston artists who continue to shape our city's uniquely diverse and dynamic cultural landscape.

16 | Performing Arts Houston | performingartshouston.org

artists

New/Now is sponsored in part by Wells Fargo and the Powell Foundation.

Additional support comes from the Performing Arts Houston through the Mattox Fund for New Works.

Photos by Claire McAdams

This piece couldn't exist without Houston.

I want my work to be a mirror image of the Houston audience—what they look like, how they move, and how they live.

Mezclada Dance Company, led by Joel Aguilera Joel Aguilera is a Houston-based choreographer, educator, and Olympic breaking coach. He has performed on global stages, from NBC segments with Snoop Dogg to international tours in Paris, Albania, and Montenegro, sharing the stage with artists like Lil’ Wayne, Pitbull, and GRAMMY® winner Arturo O’Farrill & The Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra.

Joel is the founder of Mezclada Dance Company, a collective blending breaking, modern, and Latin dance to celebrate cultural diversity. Under his direction, Mezclada premieres eveninglength concerts and community outreach programs across Houston.

Joel’s New/Now work, De Aquí! (“From Here”), is a fusion of dance, live music, and short film. Drawing on salsa, breaking, and modern dance, the piece celebrates the voices of Houston’s Latin communities and their essential contributions to the city’s cultural fabric.

De Aquí! features Mezclada dancers, live Latin musicians, and documentarystyle films spotlighting local stories of heritage, resilience, and creativity.

amplify magazine — Fall 2025 | 17

Kay Prince Kay Prince is a composer and classical pianist whose work spans solo, chamber, and orchestral music. Her compositions blend emotional depth with formal clarity, often highlighting the expressive voices of piano, viola, and cello.

As Founder and Executive Director of B&W Classical Academy, Kay champions accessible music education and supports underrepresented composers through teaching, curriculum, and public programming. At the core of her work is a commitment to musical clarity, form, and emotional depth—whether composing for one instrument or many.

Kay’s commissioned work, The City Sings, is a five-movement orchestral suite inspired by Houston’s layered histories and communities. Written for strings, the piece captures both intimate and expansive dimensions of the city’s identity.

I don't think I look like a typical composer. I have locs; I wear nails and lashes, but I hope that at least one kid in the audience can see me and know that they can be a composer too, and still look like Houston.

18 | Performing Arts Houston | performingartshouston.org

Kinetic Ensemble Jaylin Vinson, Composer Kinetic Ensemble is a conductor-less, artist-led string orchestra redefining classical music in Houston. Named “Best Chamber Orchestra of 2023” (Houston Press), Kinetic is known for its vibrant sound, innovative programming, and commitment to diverse and underrepresented voices. Since its founding in 2015, the 16-member group has premiered over 30 new works and earned national acclaim for its dynamic performances. Their 2023 debut album, Kinetic, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Traditional Classical chart.

Their New/Now commissioned work Dark Matter, composed by Jaylin Vinson, blends classical, Gospel, and Afro-diasporic traditions, and reflects both Houston’s status as a hub for space exploration and its role in advancing Black artistic futures.

This piece is just my way of participating in a long practice of Black artistic expression that's so entrenched in our city's culture.

Jaylin Vinson, Composer

New/Now is your front-row seat to the creative pulse of Houston today.

Discover art rooted in our city's diverse cultures. Connect with bold voices from your own community.

Experience boundary-pushing performances you won't see anywhere else.

See them take the stage with brand-new world premieres, March 20-21, 2026—only at Performing Arts Houston. amplify magazine — Fall 2025 | 19

Eldorado Ballroom Houston In June, we partnered with Solange Knowles to present the Eldorado Ballroom Houston—six nights of music, performance art, and film celebrating the legacy and revolutionary creativity of Black artists.

A homegrown homage to Houston’s Third Ward and a bold step toward amplifying underrepresented voices in the performing arts.

Relive the series through photos by 2025 Salazar Arts Intern Sara Buchsbaum.

20 | Performing Arts Houston | performingartshouston.org

With great appreciation to the sponsors and partners.

“Eldorado Ballroom Houston” was made possible in part by Melanie Gray and Mark Wawro, Roxann Thomas Chargois, Charlene and Tym Tombar, the Creuzot Family, Tejuana L. Edmond, Sis and Hasty Johnson, Eileen and Kase Lawal, the Performing Arts Houston Foundation, Texas Commission on the Arts, the Humphreys Foundation, the Vivian L. Smith Foundation, the Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts, and the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance.

h-town showed up in

If there’s one thing our audiences have mastered, it’s pulling off the coolest looks in the Houston heat. Check out some of the standout looks from Eldorado Ballroom Houston. amplify magazine — Fall 2025 | 21

individual supporters $50,000+ Linda and Willie Chiang Melanie Gray and Mark Wawro Janet and Bill Swanstrom Phoebe and Bobby Tudor $25,000-$49,999 Jen and Doug Bosch Nancy G. and Charles D. Davidson Mignon and Stephen Gill Lisa and Mustafa Parris-Cochinwala Mari Salazar Margaret Alkek Williams Syma and Walt Zerkow $10,000-$24,999 Anonymous Ernesto D. Baca Rachelle and Jeff Ball Leah R. Bennett Margaret and Brian Bravo Janet and John Carrig Roxann Thomas Chargois Kourtney and Vijay D'Cruz Tejuana L. Edmond Theresa A. Einhorn and Donald Yurewicz The Ensell Family Wendy K.D. King and Warwick King Jenny Koehler and Jason P. Wells Emily T. Kuo and Michael Chu Cara and Chad Michael Judy and Scott S. Nyquist Beverly and Jim Postl Leslie Elkins Sasser and Shannon Sasser Charlene and Tymothi O. Tombar $5,000–$9,999 Norah G. Adams Martha and S. Kris Agarwal Charles and Casey Boettcher Daniel Boss Kathryn and Eric Brueggeman Pamela and Ryan Castleman Sig and Patricia Cornelius Carl and Mary Sapp Fischer Susan and Sean Gorman Melinda and Jeffrey Hildebrand Yvonne and Mark Jacobs Curt and Stephany Karges Sarah and Joel Lambert Ellen and Joseph Levy Mimi Lloyd Theresa and Edward Mallett Marilyn Maloney and Paul Longstreth Ginni and Richard Mithoff Katherine Easterby Murphy Miki Lusk Norton and Ralph E. Norton Kathryn O'Brien Alifiya and Salvador Pareja Laura and Daniel Pears Corina and Armando Perez Amy Marlyse Plato and Kelly Plato Ann V. Rogers Andrew B. Smith Paola and Fernando Vizcaino $3,000-$4,999 Oscar Burkholder Elizabeth Collins Susan E. Denson Katrina L. Dibala Timothy G. Green Mary Van and David Grindle Rachell L. Hill Jesse H. Jones II and Terry Wayne Jones Taylor and Daniel Kaufman Amy LeBlanc

Performing Arts Houston gratefully acknowledges the individuals who support our performances and programs through generous membership contributions, donations, and special event support. For more information on member and donor benefits or to explore all the ways you can support Performing Arts Houston, please visit performingartshouston.org/support or contact Nicole Oliva at 713.632.8117 or noliva@performingartshouston.org

Larissa Lindsay and Stuart Bailey Robert Santana Whitney Wall Weighter and Jason Weighter $1,000-$2,999 Anonymous (5) Karen and Darren Beyer Meg and Brandon Booth Ignacio Carrion Nancy Chafe C.C. Conner and David Groover The Creuzot Family Carl R. Cunningham Emily and Damon Daniels Krista and Michael Dumas Susan Guthrie Dunn Diane Felder Joe J. Fisher Jr. Katherine and Walker Hale Arianda and Richard Hicks Jeffrey Hopkins Sis and Hasty Johnson Shane Kimzey Susan and Michael Klaveness Kirsten and Taylor E. Landry Eileen and Kase Lawal Sarah Lee Jane and Steve Malashock Barbara and Patrick McCelvey Vickie L. Milazzo and Tom Ziemba Linda C. Murray Jim Oswald Christina and Troy Porter William S. Reynolds and Kathleen Williams Gary Rodriguez and Michael Ball Regina J. Rogers Jason Ryan Stephen Schwarz Susan L. Thompson Lisa and Saul Valentin Wilson Van Tine $500-$999 Anonymous (2) Mari Alcala Michael Bell Rebekka and Damon Chargois David and Carol Cooper Catherine and Nick Dunbar Sarah and Reza Ebrahimi Jourdan Goode Ted Harwood James H. Hazen Scott P. Howard Ken and Tracy Janda Susan Jarosz James Johnston Darryl King Leticia Maldonado Mavin H. Martin and Neil E. Mellen Chris Montealegre Leslie and Kent Nelson Susan Snider Osterberg and Edward Osterberg Tricia and Alan Ratliff Terry Reasonover Kristin and Lance Reynolds George Rissky Patrick Ryan Molly Smith Debbie and Gene Straka Ashley Bales and Lee V. Strickland Toya Terry Mechelle Tran Chris Truman A. and T. Waterhouse Randy Williams Atarayah Ysrayl

22 | Performing Arts Houston | performingartshouston.org

$250-$499 Anonymous (5) Kipp W. Baxter E. Brietzke Carol Brooks Berglass Ralph Burch Annie and Will Cooper Francisco Cruz Stephen Cunningham Khoa Dao Kathy Beck and John Egbert John Eldridge Leslie Gassner Mary Gleason Kirksey Gregg Jennifer Hardy Janice Hale Harris Rina Harris Debra Gatison Hatter Craig Hauschildt Isabella Hawkins Patrick Healy Susan Hightower Rick Hurst Mitchell Karlson Janice Kemp and John Kling Farrah Kheradmand Allyson Kinzel Kelle and Chris Lambert Juliet Lawrence Christine Lloyd Linda Lorelle and Lou Gregory Ryan and Lindsey MacLeod Matt Main Vincent Malouf Joaquin Martinez Nisha Mathews Ali McHenry Kathryn McNiel Jody and Gwendolyn Meraz Rise Montrell Ruben Nava Rajat Parashar David L. Peavy and Stephen R. McCauley Juan Pena Sharon Peoples Christy Rawls Jennifer Reed Melissa Reihle Leanne and Keith Reynolds Michell Rios-Ordonez Julia and Thomas Pascal Williams Robinson Bryan Scrivner Jay Sears Vicki and David Sharp Sarah Shull and Sabi Balkanyi Jennie Simmons Randal Smith Roger Smith III Thomas Smith Jeremy B. Sochol Sean Stewart Nicole Stirling Catherine Taylor Edda Tinis Melicia Tjoa Karyl Van Tassel Jennifer Waggoner Kirk Wilhelmus Herbert Willett $100-$249 Anonymous (36) Amr Abouleish Sarah Adame Robert Addington Adelaide Adjovu Minerva Agustin Cecilia Alatriz and Layla Tobar

Cassy Albrecht Gary and Yvonne Alden Jackson Alford Hedda Altamirano Maria Elena Alvarez Robert and Gloria Anderson Pharr Andrews Rachel Ansari Evette Aranas Tanya Arora Monica Basiden Alex Balbuena Kimberly Ballew Kimberly Barta Janice Beal Armando and Vanessa Benitez Annie H. Bernstein Claudine M. Bhandari Maryana Bilenka Carlos Bolanos Greg Bowden Jalisa Bracker Ramona Brady Richard Braverman Lisa Brenskelle The Bright Family James Britton Jim Hall and Linda Broocks Julianne Brooks George Brown Jamie Buehler Tinh D. Bui Rian Butler Linda Calles Alicia Cannady Brandon Cantu Sherry Carmouche Patricia Carnes Gwendolyn Carsten Charity Carter Richard Carter and Elizabeth Sjoberg Paolo Castagnoli Carl Chargois Lan Chen Kannan Chockalingam Doris Cleveland Thomas Clingenpeel John Clutterbuck Renay Cohen Phil Colvin Irina and David Cook Lawson Cooper Kelly Corbin Fred Corsiglia Gigi Cox Stephen Craig Theresa Craig Oriana Cruz Elvis Cuevas John Curtin Pud Cusack Tia Daniel LaTonya Dansby Janet Davis Lisa and Alan Davis Nikita Davis Edgar De La Rosa Peter Dear and Wendy Prater Dear Charles Deaton Michael and Carla Deavers Sheila Diombala Leslie and Ron Dragg Diane Duff Dan and Kathleen Duncan Vance Edgar Russell Edgington Sandra Eguia David Elizondo The Elizondo Family Alexandra Emsley Fred Endelman Kelly Epega

Jesse Erickson Gabriel Espitia Gracie Ricks and Scott Fagot Margarita Farias Chad T. Farley Morris Farr Shantau Fellows Kelli Fereday Jesse Flores Suzanne Fong Bobbie Fontenot Ashley Fredericks Mozell Funchess Vanessa N. Gaona Melvin Gardner Mark Gartner Cee Cee Gaunty Magda Ghobashy Kidada Gilbert-Lewis Vanessa Gilmore Richard C. Glass Kristi and Martin Gollwitzer Mark V. Goloby Breona Gonzalez Alayna and Zander Gorman Seth Gravesmill Kimberly Green William Green Susan Greenfield Mark Guerra Lilac and Felipe Guzman MaryScott Hagle Bambi Hall Ryan Haller Kathleen Harper Deborah Harris Darian Harrison Yousuf Hasan Clarissa Hinojosa Ashley Holloway Rachel Holton Linda and Barry Andrew F. Icken Alfred Idem Katherine Jackman Cynthia Jackson Denise Jackson Michael Jackson Rafael Jarquin Corrie Jenkins Casaundra Johnson Margaret Jones Angela N. Joseph-Ball Elsa Kapitan-White Indra Kartawidjaja Lori Kennedy Alexis Kiker Sohyen Kim

Danny Kirkpatrick Ashlee Knight Jennifer Kocian Miguel Kremenliev Kanzeana and Sean Lamb Jillian Lara Stephanie Lawrence Curtis Lea Tina Lee and Joel Smith Ann Leoni Elizabeth Leos Amber Lewis Crystal and Donald Lewis-Brown Cynthia Li Alexis E. Lockhart Dolores Lopez-Cardenas and Eduardo M. Lopez Sommer Louie Donielle Lozada Courtney Lyons Terence Ma Ana MacNaught Roger Maldonado Neha Malik Ari Malka Michael Mandola Valdete Manfron Paul Manino and Elizabeth Cloninger Natalie Marsh Alex Martinez and Anita Shahani Javier Martinez Kim Martin-Long Anna Matynia Jeff McFarland William H. McGrath Heather McGriff Brian Meigh Rosalinda Mendez Valerie Mendoza Bobbi Jo Miller Kara Mings Emily Mitchell Annette Moise Curtis Monroe and Kelli Woody J. Montelongo Yessenia Montes Tiara Nata Andrew C. Navarre Kharyne Neptune Patrick Nguyen Ihuoma Nwaogwugwu Sylvia Ocampo Leah Oren-Palmer Brenda Orozco Ronke Osibajo Kathy Overly Michele Owens-Johnson Kim Padgett

Michael Palmer Adecia Parker Christine Patton Lorena Perez Chadwick Peters Andrea and Carl Peterson Evette Naaykens Jerry Petrizzo Charlotte Phillips Jontel Pierce Kim Pilcher Marie and Douglas Polega Casey Potter Katherine and Tim Pownell Michelle Presley Ronda Prince Diana Quintanilla Diana Reyes Ragan Rhodes India Richmond Nicole Ridgway Jane and Alex Robinson Julio Isaac Rodriguez Debbie Roesler Ryan Rongone William Rubio Desiree Samei Rabia and Omar Samji Michael Sanchez Nayeli Sanchez Melissa Sandefer Dionna Saravia The Saucedo Family Tomi Scantlebury Beth and Michael Schneider Beth Scimemi Soren Boyd Andrea and Charles Seay Dionel Segura Babak Sepahyar Nadia Serrano Simental Mariyam Shagirova Jeffrey Shaw Robert Sheen Samara Shepherd Yvonne Shilow The Siggers Family Maxine Silberstein Tonia Silcott H. Colleen and Michael B. Silva Jr. Victor Simms Jennifer Simons Katherine Singleton Merrilyn Skelton Andrew Smith Beverly Smith Denisa and Thomas R. Smith Rodney Smith

John Spelman Amritaa Sreeram Galen Staats Jasmine Stevens Haley Steward Ronda Stieber Ebone Stowers Joycelyn Streator Andrew Sung Hellen Sutley Sandra Swofford Jordyn Anderson and Cydni Talton Jennifer Taylor Karen Terrell Kerry-Ann Thompson Brianna Tillman Elizabeth Troxler Laura Tyson Monica Valdez Raymond Valdez Nizete-Ly Valles Mary and Martin Vandenbrook Mary Vargo Jane Vaselenak Naomi Ventura Irma and Julio Villatoro John M. Vitucci Sixto Wagan Janice Wagner David Wainwright Marquel Walker Emily Weinstein Marcia West Susan West Jennifer Westbrooks Shantel Wetherall Carlyle White Edward Willey III & Aramis J. Willette Jennifer Williams Julisa Williams Teri Williams Cathy Williamson Chris Williamson Juliet Wilson Cecilia Winters-Morris Carrie Wirsing Margaret Wische Kimberly Wisner Christine Wong Melissa Yarborough Jasmine Young Kyuson Yun

Edna W. Saunders planned giving society Dominic Cellitti*

Andrew B. Smith*

Sheri & Gary Winston*

*Charter Member

Launched with the 25/26 Season, the Edna W. Saunders Planned Giving Society celebrates those who remember Performing Arts Houston through estate or planned gifts. The Society is named in memory of Houston’s first impresario, Edna W. Saunders, who programmed and presented performances and events throughout Houston for over 45 years.

To learn more about legacy giving to Performing Arts Houston and Saunders Society benefits, contact Jordan Drum, Director of Development, at 713.632.8104 or jdrum@performingartshouston.org or visit performingartshouston.org/support/planned-giving.

Listings as of August 1, 2025

Lila Downs: Día de los Muertos OCT 21

amplify magazine — Fall 2025 | 23

institutional partners

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

corporate partners $100,000+

$25,000-$49,999

Ernst & Young LLP Motiva Enterprises LLC Plains All American TD Securities Troutman Pepper Locke† Truist Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP Wells Fargo† Westwood Wealth Management Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP

Lé Meridien Houston Downtown* WM*

$5,000–$9,999

ExxonMobil†

$50,000-$99,999 Admiral Transfer & Rigging CenterPoint Energy ConocoPhillips† H-E-B†

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

Houston First Corporation* J.P. Morgan Legacy Community Health Services StoneTurn Group

$1,000-$4,999 Bright Star Productions* Corebridge Financial Coterra Energy Inc. LD Systems* POST Houston*

Bracewell LLP Collaborate The Friedkin Group† Goldman Sachs

foundations & government agencies $100,000+

$25,000-$49,999

$5,000-$9,999

Houston Arts Alliance through the City of Houston Houston Endowment, Inc. † The Humphreys Foundation† Texas Commission on the Arts † The Wortham Foundation, Inc. †

The Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts † M.D. Anderson Foundation† Vivian L. Smith Foundation Wasserman Foundation

George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation†

$50,000-$99,999

Heimbinder Family Foundation Kayser Foundation

The Brown Foundation, Inc. † Powell Foundation

$10,000-$24,999

matching supporters Apple Inc. Chevron Corporation The Coca-Cola Company ConocoPhillips Corebridge Financial Coterra Energy Inc. Phillips 66 Plains All American Shell Truist *Includes in-kind support † Indicates 10+ years of consecutive support Listings as of August 1, 2025

Lúnasa MAR 14

24 | Performing Arts Houston | performingartshouston.org

houston creates We could talk for days about how the arts change lives. Instead, we’ll let a few dear friends make the case.

José Longoria Director of Mariachi Imperial de America, UH / Mariachi Pumas / Mariachi Las Chabelitas / Houston HS Allstar Mariachi

"I always tell my students that I’m not just here to make them into mariachis. I’m here to show them something unique, something different, and something to help them express themselves.

I’m going to show them how to be teammates and how to be responsible for something even bigger than themselves. They’ll use that in real life. It doesn't matter what career they have, they’ll use those lessons."

Jessie Ferguson

Amanda Clayton

Former Salazar Arts Intern / Dancer / Founder & Artistic Director, BOOT Dance Project

Director of Backstage Operations, Jones Hall for the Performing Arts

"There are times I felt scorned by the arts. It’s hard to audition over and over again, face so much rejection, and pick yourself back up every time.

In one of my courses, a really great professor talked about all the different paths in the arts.

She was actually the one who encouraged me to apply for the Salazar Arts internship. She said, ‘spread yourself thin,’ you know, do whatever you can to stay in the arts world.

"As art makers, we talk about our connection with the audience, but what's always been the most rewarding for me is our connection with each other as we're creating something together. And so, what I'm excited about, is when I'm working on a project with a really good team, and when we get to build something together. I mean, obviously how we connect with the audience is also very important, but I think that when the audience has a really good experience, it's because they can feel what we've made together."

That really helped me—seeing that I can still make an impact in the arts, even if I’m not on stage in New York or something.

It helped me reevaluate my priorities, you know, I’ve been able to find my own special niche in the arts community. I can have my own cool way of growing in the arts."

See more Houston Creates, including our video series by CLICKON, at the QR code. amplify magazine — Fall 2025 | 25

Caroline T. Dartey. Photo by Andres Eccles

MARCH 6-8, 2026 • JONES HALL Tickets from $39

Experience Revelations performingartshouston.org

DANCE SERIES