THE OBSERVATORY THEATRE UNDER THE STARS
FALL 2022
Ashley Támar Davis as Charlaine in TUTS 2022 production of Ain’t Misbehavin’; photo credit: Melissa Taylor
”As a microcosm of our community, the stage drags our humanity to the forefront of our consciousness, making us more mindful in many spheres of life. The actors, obviously, portray vulnerable moments of real life; but our art demands contemplation of the nuances of friendship, responsibility, independence, and interdependence from everyone. While you volunteer with the students, play in the orchestra, make friends in the Grand Lobby, and even discuss The Company with newcomers, you manifest the ideals imagined in our rehearsal halls. What a beautiful thing to participate in such a significant process!”
Kathleen Blue, TUTS Development Associate
The Observatory is published quarterly by Theatre Under The Stars, 800 Bagby Street, Suite 200, Houston TX 77002. Please send any address or recognition changes via email to development@tuts.com
IN THIS ISSUE
4 TUTS at the Holidays! 6 2022 Lights Up Gala 8 Donor Profile: Joemaine and Elizabeth Spears 10 More Than Song and Dance 12 TUTS Education: The Future of Theatre 14 TUTS Education in the Community 16 About TUTS Affinity Groups 20 Membership Benefits 22 Donor Listings 30 Save The Dates
MISSION STATEMENT
Theatre Under The Stars, Houston’s non-profit home for musical theatre, is dedicated to enriching lives through innovative musical theatre, inclusive educational curriculum and dynamic community engagement.
VISION
Founded by Frank M. Young in 1968, Theatre Under The Stars was created to serve the Greater Houston community through producing timeless classics and creating/developing new and innovative musical theatre. We will build upon this legacy and identify, cultivate, and nurture innovative programming, steward our long-time supporters, cultivate new audiences and future artists, arts patrons, and supporters.
We are collaborative, engaging, inclusive, resilient, transparent, and inspired. Learn more about the TUTS values and history at www.tuts.com/about
THE OBSERVATORY FALL 2022 3
Ben Fankhauser as Brantley Foster in TUTS 2022 production of The Secret of My Success; photo credit: Melissa Taylor
Happy Holidays to our dear subscribers and donors! This time of year is very important to us at Theatre Under The Stars. It is a season of giving thanks and reflecting on all for which we have to be grateful.
Making the list: this fall we welcomed our students back to expanded dynamic curriculum with an eye toward excellence; exceeding our fall enrollment goals. We also welcomed our audiences back with a musical tribute to Fats Waller. Ain’t Misbehavin’ delighted audiences and provided a beautiful evening of storytelling through music. We re-launched our new works program with the re-invention and regional premiere of the musical adaptation The Secret of My Success to rave reviews, a lot of laughter, and memorable melodies.
And at the very top of our list....We know that none of this would be possible without your support. As subscribers, annual members, and advocates for TUTS, we are incredibly grateful for your investment in us.
As you are making your Christmas plans, consider introducing your family, neighbor, or co-worker to the joys of musical theatre. Bring them to a show! Theatre tickets make the best gift, providing an opportunity to create memories and experiences with one another....and not only does it support our work in and for Houston, it also supports local businesses and re-invigorates the arts community at a critical time. While we have been blessed to re-open our theatre, we are still recovering from the long shutdown. Introducing more people to and getting them excited about coming to the theatre returning helps beyond measure.
We are looking forward to 2023, announcing our season, and spending more time with you! In the meantime, enjoy Mary Poppins and all that the Holidays bring.
With love and warmest wishes from all of us at TUTS - Happiest of Holidays!
J Hart Executive Director
Knechtges Artistic Director
THEATRE UNDER THE STARS 4
Hillary
TUTS AT THE HOLIDAYS!
GET TICKETS AT TUTS.COM OR 713-558-8887 JAN. 31 – FEB. 12
Dan
TUTS
Theatre Under The Stars’ “Lights Up” Gala, celebrating the 50th Anniversary of TUTS Humphreys School of Musical Theatre, took place Friday, October 7 at The Astorian, drawing Houston philanthropists and arts lovers to celebrate the deep impact of theater education on our community! The event raised more than $660,000 in vital revenue supporting a breadth of programming at Theatre Under the Stars.
The evening, chaired by Patricia and Sig Cornelius and Dolores Cavatore and John Tobola, showcased the incredible talents of TUTS Education students with performances throughout the night, including with the evening’s headlining entertainer, Broadway celebrity Alex Newell. The festivities began with opening remarks by TUTS Executive Director Hillary Hart and TUTS Artistic Director Dan Knechtges, continued with videos highlighting the immeasurable value of Theatre Under the Stars, the arts, and arts education, followed by moving remarks from TUTS Director of Education Laura Peete.
“Look at these amazing students. We have a responsibility to them, and to all the kids at home right now who have never stepped inside a professional theater before. We are ready to elevate and build a legacy of showing how Houston can lead the charge in what the arts and arts education CAN be. We have big dreams at TUTS. Dream with us.” said Laura Peete.
The Astorian was a beautiful venue for the 1920s-inspired décor that welcomed guests. The pre-program was complete with a gloriously costumed champagne
diva accompanying the raffle for a diamond ring from J. Landa Jewelers, mystery grab bags from David Peck, and a martini-and-old-fashioned bar. The silent auction that took place throughout the evening had guests enthusiastically bidding right up until the auction closed.
When seated, guests were treated to a house-smoked salmon with meyer lemon and dill sorbet before the duo entrée of 40-day aged grass-fed beef tenderloin and seared redfish. Everyone enjoyed a warm chocolate lava cake with salted caramel toffee gelato to finish.
Auctioneers Johnny Bravo and Tracie Yeoman kept paddles raised with multiple sales for all the live auction items on offer, including a live painting from Taft McWhorter and a TUTS-exclusive trip to the 2023 Tony Awards. The donation portion of the evening alone raised more than $85,000 from generous attendees.
To cap off the night, star of stage and screen Alex Newell, put on a fabulous show for guests, performing a cabaret-style set with songs and entertaining stories from many of his memorable roles, including his time on Glee and on-stage for the Tonyaward-winning revival of Once On This Island
As the final hurrah for the evening, TUTS Education students joined Newell for a rousing performance of “This Is Me” from The Greatest Showman, followed by a champagne toast from the event chairs and a sing-along of “I Have a Dream” from Mamma Mia! with over 50 student performers encircling the ballroom.
THEATRE UNDER THE STARS 6
LIGHTS
MAGICAL EVENING RAISED MORE THAN $660,000 FOR HOUSTON’S HOME FOR MUSICAL THEATRE
UP 2022 GALA WAS A SPECTACULAR SUCCESS! THE
Chairs John Tabola & Dolores Cavatore, TUTS Executive Director Hillary Hart, Alex Newell, TUTS Artistic Director Dan Knechtges, Chairs Patricia & Sig Cornelius, Photo credit: Priscilla Dickson Photography
The Astorian. Photo credit: Priscilla Dickson Photography
TUTS Associate Artistic Director Monique Midgette, Company Manager Jessica Casanova, Director of Education and Engagement Laura Peete, Photo credit: Priscilla Dickson Photography
TUTS: How did you first get involved with TUTS?
Spears: We learned about Theatre Under The Stars through a professional partnership with The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. We attended a couple performances and our daughter began attending classes at the Humpreys School of Musical Theatre. From there, we wanted to get more involved in supporting TUTS and their work in the community.
TUTS: What have been some of your favorite TUTS experiences?
Spears’: We all love attending the TUTS performances and events. We’ve enjoyed all the TUTS shows, but the ones that really stand out are Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, and most recently had a great time at the Aint Misbehavin’ production. The special shows around the holidays are also fun to attend.
TUTS: You’ve been very generous to TUTS and our programming; what motivates you to support TUTS as a newer donor?
Spears: We enjoy giving back to the community and see TUTS as a great avenue to make a significant impact in the community as well as in individuals of all backgrounds.
TUTS: You mentioned your daughter’s involvement with HSMT. What impact has the program had on her?
Spears: HSMT has had a really positive impact on Makayla. It really gave her more confidence in her ability, not only when related to the arts, but also in her school. This has allowed her to open-up much more around other people and classmates, along with being more willing to volunteer for different roles and activities. It also has increased her passion for the arts and extracurricular activities.
TUTS: How does it feel to see your child shine through the arts?
Spears: It was great to see her growth and development of her personality along with overall enthusiasm which was has really been brought along through her involvement in HSMT.
TUTS: You recently joined us for TUTS Travels! Why did you decide to travel to the UK with TUTS? What are your favorite memories from the trip?
Spears: When we read about the trip, it touched all of the things that we have a lot of interest in: theatre and history. What we didn’t realize was that the great group we would be spending the time during the trip made sure there was never a dull moment! We had a lot of great memories, but a couple of our favorite memories were seeing our daughter light up throughout the Back to the Future performance along with touring Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey, which ended up being historic due to the timing of the unfortunate death of Queen Elizabeth. It was a great trip because we had a great guide who was knowledgeable and allowed us to get a closer look into history and the arts in the UK.
THE OBSERVATORY FALL 2022 9
JOEMAINE & ELIZABETH
DONOR PROFILE
SPEARS
Paul Hope
Like all art forms, musical theatre has a rich history. The always delightful Paul Hope will entertain you with stories, videos, and background on our upcoming TUTS productions including Disney & Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins and Chicago. Hope has the distinction of being cast in the most productions in TUTS history – more than 40! You won’t want to miss his personal anecdotes mixed in with his amusing and engaging storytelling! More Than Song and Dance promises to be the most fun you’ll ever have at a luncheon!
TUTS: More Than Song and Dance has been such a successful donor event for TUTS. What are you most excited about for your MTSaD programming this season?
Hope: Chicago is one of my top five favorite musicals and has a very interesting production history. Getting to talk about Gwen Verdon, Bob Fosse, and Chita Rivera is always exciting. I liked the score of Legally Blonde and loved the story so much that it led me to see the source films for the first time. So glad that the show has had such a vibrant regional life after being somewhat dismissed in NYC. RENT is a brilliant adaptation of Puccini’s La Boheme As an opera lover, it made me appreciate Jonathan Larson’s creativity in transferring the story to New York City during the AIDS crisis. The lyrics are brilliant, so hopefully the TUTS production will have great sound mixing and crystal-clear diction from our cast.
TUTS: We are excited to see you on the TUTS stage again in the upcoming
production of Disney & Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins! Can you tell us a little about your roles in the show and what it means to be a 40+ year “veteran” of the TUTS family?
Hope: I will be playing Admiral Boom and the Bank President in Mary Poppins. Boom is mostly neighborhood atmosphere, but the Bank President has a great surprise in Act 2. TUTS has been the theatre that got me my Equity card, connected me with Broadway and LA performers, and cemented local professional friendships that continue to this day. These people are my family.
TUTS: What do you most enjoy about sharing the history of musical theater with your audience?
Hope: Musical theatre is such a rich and exciting art form, and most audience members only know a fraction of its varied, funny surprising history. I love telling stories of the stars and writers that created shows we love, and introducing my audiences to shows they might not have been aware of before.
TUTS: Why do you think it’s important to foster special programming like MTSaD for regional theatres like TUTS? What do you hope your audience walks away with at the end of a program?
Hope: It is important to educate our audiences in the legacy of musical theatre, creating awareness of the repertoire beyond what was filmed by Hollywood.
Look at Encores in New York. They perform wonderful pieces which have been on the shelf largely because they weren’t filmed.
The more shows our audiences come to know and love, the more adventurous our programming can be and the hungrier they are to see new work or the simply unfamiliar.
THEATRE UNDER THE STARS 10
Cast of TUTS 2022 production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s South Pacific. Photo Credit: Melissa Taylor.
Cast of TUTS 2022 production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s South Pacific. Photo Credit: Melissa Taylor.
Paul Hope at More Than Song and Dance
THE FUTURE OF THEATRE
with a combined performance of “This Is Me” with celebrity headliner Alex Newell, as well as a heartfelt group rendition of “I Have A Dream” from Mamma Mia!
Houston SPCA: The HSMT Performance Troupe wowed guests at the Houston SPCA’s annual Howl-O-Ween Ball, performing selections from the cult-classic Rocky Horror Picture Show. The Troupe was proud to return to this annual event, which benefits the organization and their mission to promote commitment to and respect for all animals and free them from suffering, abuse and exploitation.
TUTS Board Kickoff: The inaugural season of the TUTS Pre-Professional Company is off to a great start! After a rigorous weekend of callbacks and bootcamp, the newly formed company performed for board members and TUTS staff at the annual board kickoff event hosted on the Zilkha Hall stage.
Bring It On!: Our summer production of Bring It On! blew audiences away, making for an amazing conclusion to our 2022 summer programs! 90 students performed in 4 sold out shows in Zilkha Hall, making for an unforgettable experience for students and thousands of audience members alike.
TUTS Lights Up Gala: The HSMT Troupe, River Troupe, and Pre-Professional Company performed at the TUTS Lights Up Gala, entertaining guests and celebrating 50 years of the Humphreys School of Musical Theatre. The night concluded
Masterclasses: In addition to weekly musical theatre training, technique building, and industry preparation, students have had the opportunity to learn from industry professionals through masterclasses. Jenni Barber and Jason Schmidt, who have worked extensively in TV, film, and Broadway, shared their expertise on performing monologues and acting through song with our preprofessional company members. They also participated in a college BFA/BA panel with current students at the top musical theatre performance school in the country to ask questions and learn about the audition process and college experience.
Mainstage: In collaboration with TUTS Artistic and Production staff, 6 HSMT students were cast in The Secret of My Success, and 19 have been cast in Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins. This integration provides our students with a vital professional performance experience as they work towards entering the industry as professional artists.
THEATRE UNDER THE STARS 12
STUDENTS PREPARE FOR A CAREER IN THE PERFORMING ARTS
HIGH-CALIBER PRE-PROFESSIONAL
TUTS
THROUGH
PROGRAMS
2022 Company of Bring It On!
HSMT students in Masterclass with Jason Schmidt
2022 Lights Up Gala TUTS Education Performers
TUTS EDUCATION IN THE COMMUNITY
ARTS EDUCATION APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM
The Arts Education Apprenticeship program successfully launched in the Summer of 2022 to provide an artistic and educational experience for young artists who are pursuing a career in the Musical Theatre Industry. During this 10-week paid internship, college students enrolled in a BFA/BA program were given the opportunity to experience a variety of roles including teaching, assistant directing, technical/production, and administration. The primary objectives included building on artistic and creative skills, successful classroom management, experience in child development theory, and learning through an experiential environment. With these tools, the apprentices played a vital role in the success of TUTS summer camps and productions.
CLASSES & SUMMER CAMPS
TUTS Education offers Musical Theatre classes during the Fall, Spring and Summer seasons for students of all ages and ambitions from beginners to the Broadway Bound. Enrollment at both Humphreys School of Musical Theatre and The River exceeded over 1,200 students this Summer and Fall. In addition to more than 60 classes and camp offerings this year, TUTS Education has also provided exclusive masterclass opportunities and access to preview engagements or events for TUTS mainstage shows. This season, HSMT and The River contracted over 20 Teaching Artists and implemented a new Professional development program to increase teaching artist satisfaction and communication.
HSMT and The River classes occur Monday-Saturday, and vary in dance, acting, voice, and elective choices. Spring registration is available at www.tuts.com/schools and Summer Camp Registration opens January 2023.
TUTS EDUCATION VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
Over the past few months, the TUTS Education Volunteer program has seen an increase in student involvement from HSMT and throughout the community. A combined total of 150 volunteers supported our 2022 Summer Camps and Fall River Saturday program. These volunteers graciously donated their time to support over 600 students during classes in dance, acting, music and art. With their help engaging students of varying ages and abilities, our camps and classes were able to run smoothly and successfully. Most importantly, their services created a lasting impact and lifelong learning for students as young as 4 years old to young adults.
For more information about our volunteer program, please visit www.tuts.com/volunteers.
DONOR PROFILE
InterLinc Family Foundation has supported TUTS since 2015 through its generous and longstanding support of The River. The InterLinc Family Foundation, under the auspices of InterLinc Mortgage, believes in strengthening and helping to improve the quality of life in the communities where they live and work. Jim VanSteenhouse, former CEO of InterLinc and current Chairman of the Board, founded the InterLinc Family Foundation in 2012 with his wife Elizabeth. The Foundation focuses on assisting non-profit organizations that InterLinc employees are actively volunteering with in their local communities.
On November 19, InterLinc employees volunteered for The River’s Mary Poppin’s themed Fall Recital at the Metropolitan Multi-Services Center (1475 West Gray Road). TUTS salutes InterLinc’s enduring support through charitable funding and volunteer manpower.
THEATRE UNDER THE STARS 14
TUTS HSMT and River Showcases with Mary Poppins at The River’s Fall Recital. Photo Credit: Melissa Taylor
InterLink employees volunteering for The River’s Mary Poppin’s themed Fall Recital.
AFFINITY GROUPS
Theatre
Interested in supporting young artists?
Passionate about arts inclusivity?
Looking for volunteer opportunities?
Developing your philanthropic impact?
Hoping to join a network of arts-loving women?
Traveling more than 50 miles to see TUTS shows?
Creating memories for your young family through your TUTS experience?
Excited to advocate for TUTS to your friends?
Each group has opportunities to go in-depth and behind-the-scenes with TUTS throughout the year and makes a huge impact on the programming and performances at Theatre Under The Stars through their contributions.
No matter your interest, life stage, or even location, there’s a donor group and a home for you within TUTS!
Email development@tuts.com to learn more!
What
Dynamic Women
Networking and Socializing with
Emerging Philanthropists Young Families Out-of-Town Patrons
Volunteering to Support TUTS
Sharing TUTS with Friends and Family
Musical Theatre
Advocating in the Community for
Inclusivity and Access
Participating in and Supporting Fundraising Events
Enjoying Special Pricing and Experiences for Out-of-Town Patrons
Black-Tie Gala and After Party
Luncheon honoring local arts heroes
Learning More About the Art of Musical Theatre
THEATRE UNDER THE STARS 17
Within the larger world of
Under The Stars, special donor groups bring together supporters with the same interests to engage more deeply with TUTS.
opportunities are you interested in? Follow the path below to find YOUR home at Houston’s home for musical theatre!
FIND YOUR HOME AT HOUSTON’S HOME FOR MUSICAL THEATRE! 17 THEATRE UNDER THE STARS 16 THE OBSERVATORY FALL 2022 LEADING LADIES THE COMPANY INCLUSIVE ARTS SOCIETY BEYOND HOUSTON
THE COMPANY INCLUSIVE ARTS SOCIETY LEADING LADIES BEYOND
For: Dynamic women interested in forming a community of support for TUTS artists of all ages and abilities
Exclusive Benefits: Volunteer opportunities throughout the year, quarterly newsletter, access to TUTS behind-thescenes opportunities
To Join: Become a member at the $75 or $200 level Learn more at tuts.com/leadingladies
For: Musical theatre lovers and emerging philanthropists
Exclusive Benefits: Innovative child enrichment during select TUTS productions, special 4-show subscription
Chairs: Elaine Balagia Croucher & Megan Hotze
To Join: Become a subscriber and and give an annual donation of $2,000 Learn more at tuts.com/thecompany
For: Believers in the power of musical theatre who are passionate about inclusivity and equity in the arts
Exclusive Benefits: Talks throughout the year with accessibility and arts experts about inclusivity in theatre and beyond
To Join: Become a member with a donation Learn more at tuts.com/ias
HOUSTON
For: Supporters traveling 50 miles or more to visit TUTS
Exclusive Benefits: Annual members-only weekend with opportunities to meet the people who create the musicals you love and all the benefits of being a Nova or Orion annual member at a reduced price
To join: Become a member at the $2,500 or $5,000 level
Learn more at tuts.com/beyondhouston
The Company Co-Chairs Elaine Belagia Croucher and Megan Hotze at The Company Holiday Party 2021. Photo Credit: Priscilla Dickson.
Natalie Ballenger as Ensign Nellie Forbush in TUTS Spring 2022 Production of South Pacific. Photo Credit: Melissa. Taylor.
TUTS Leading Ladies. TUTS Inclusive Arts Showcase 2021. Photo Credit: Melissa Taylor.
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP
Theatre Under The Stars is Houston’s home for non-profit musical theatre. 40% of our annual operating expenses are covered by donors like YOU! Without the support of donors, we wouldn’t be able to fully deliver on our mission of sharing musical theatre with the diverse audiences of Houston.
Your Annual Membership is a charitable contribution that makes a difference to TUTS and gains you access to insider information, special experiences, and conversations that deepen your ties to the art form of musical theatre. Explore all our donor levels at tuts.com/annualmembership.
PROGRAMS
DONOR
Tech Talks
Witness how TUTS turns an empty stage into the setting of our next big production. During a Tech Talk, our technical theatre experts explain how they transform spaces and places into instruments of art. Whether it is how costumes are made or how lighting and scenic pieces are set, you’re invited to get an insider view of how a production is crafted.
More Than Song and Dance
Like all art forms, musical theatre has a rich history. Your host Paul Hope will entertain and inform about the shows you will soon see on the stage of Sarofim Hall. Hope has appeared in more than 40 TUTS productions and his personal anecdotes and sidebars you won’t want to miss! More Than Song and Dance promises to be the most fun you have ever had at a luncheon.
Stargazers Salon
Open to donors at the Nova level and above, Stargazers Salon offers a place of sanctuary before a show and during intermission. Enjoy a glass of wine and light bites during any TUTS production; mix and mingle with your fellow donors and other musical theatre-lovers. You may even catch a glimpse of a rising star in the form of one of our young artists sharing a tune before your show.
The Observatory
In the official donor publication of Theatre Under The Stars, you will receive quarterly updates on everything happening at TUTS. Enjoy pictures from recent events, stories of the impact TUTS has in our community, and read profiles of donors, like you, who make musical theatre possible.
Season Preview Announcement
Be the first to learn about the upcoming season when Artistic Director Dan Knechtges takes the mic. You’ll hear about it all before it goes to the press at this ultimate insider event!
TUTS Summer Cinema
Cinema and musical theatre have a deep and entwined history — learn more about the new season when Artistic Director Dan Knechtges presents a film relevant to an upcoming production. Grab some popcorn, break out the snacks, and enjoy the screening!
MAKE YOUR GIFT AT TUTS.COM/ DONATE AND BECOME AN ANNUAL MEMBER TODAY! THEATRE UNDER THE STARS 20
21
ANNUAL MEMBERS*
Pegasus Gail & Gerald O’Neill
Vijaya & Rao Polavarapu
Lyra Ms. Marlene Marker
Orion Dr. Constance Faro
Lu Ann & Morton Katz
Susan Mitchell
John L. Nau, III Jim & Sue Robertson
Lauren & Pat Sullivan
Nova Margaret Alkek Williams
Ms. Tina Bentsen
Mr. Iris Berthelot
Cathy & Robert Binstock
Mrs. Aimee Bornstein
Rebecca & Thomas Brandt
Mr. & Mrs. John Burgess
Mr. Steven L. Burkett & Ms. Margaret C. Lombardo
Mr. & Mrs. John D. Burns
Richard Bush
Tanisha & Paul Cannings
Zane and Brady Carruth
Sandy & Tom Cattarin
Don and Mary Rundle Condon
Judy & Mark Cook Lisa & Peter Currie
Dr. & Mrs. Cal Dalton
Mr. Joe Davis
Mr. Douglas A. Dawson
Mr. Myron Diftler
The Ensell Family
Cherrill Farnsworth & Peter J. Pavluk
Mrs. Pam Gallagher
Ms. Linda Hart
Sharon & Jim Hickey
Ms. Cynthia Higgins
Mr. Jay Landa & Mr. Daniel Turner
Mr. & Mrs. G.M. Byrd Larberg
Shaun & Janet Leone
Cheryl & Herb Listen
Jana and Bert Lohse
Penny & Paul Loyd Jr.
Ms. Angela Lutz & Mrs. Posey Saenz
David & Wanda Marcell
Nancy & Thomas Marian
Nancy F. Martin Paige & Ron May
Ms. Trini Mendenhall
Dawn Neal and Michael Corripio Roxann & Timothy Neumann Sara & Bret Oliver Kay M. Onstead
Jane and Harry Pefanis Mr. Robert Pilegge
Mrs. Jeanine Piskurich
Mr. Doug Pitcock
Mr. Tom Ryan
Dennis & Nataliya Scheib
Suzanne Reyes & Robert Scheinerman
Julie & Joel Schweers
Mr. Brandon Sear and Mr. Ralph Elsenbast
Helen and Jim Shaffer
Patricia & Jeffrey Sheets
Mr. & Mrs. Yogesh Sheth
Sandy & Randy Stilley
Emily & John Sunew
Gladys & Jim Taylor
Cliff & Julie Thompson
Mrs. Lynda Underwood
Mr. Wilson Van Tine
Mr. & Mrs. Andrew F. Veres
Sara & Rick Watts
Charlotte and Larry Whaley
Jeri & Dennis Willen
Mr. Charles Williams
Mr. and Mrs. John Williamson
Morning Star Ms. Julia Batdorf
Ms. Ann Bayless & Mr. Al Brende
Nancy & Avin Brownlee
Mark & Kay Clavenna
Ms. Katherine Dooley
Ms. Mary J. Goodreau
Casey & Ryan Hackney
Alexis & Johnny “Bravo” Holloway
Ms. Jerolyn Jones
Mr. Marquel Jordan Gwen & Dan Kellogg
Sherri & Tommy Lott Linda & Joe Sheppard Charlotte & Jay Tribble Kim & John Watson Mr. Brook Wiggins
Sol Anonymous Ms. Diane Armijo Mr. Travis Billingsley Collier & Richard Blades Ms. Wilma Booth Will & Amanda Brunner Diane and John D. Chaney Mr. Rick Chern
Douglas Childers Ms. Lynda Clemmons
Mr. Stephen Palka Ms. Elaine Danelutti Mrs. Jo Ann Dittert Jenny Elkins
Christina & Craig Epperson Mr. Paul Ferraresi Gilbert & Deanna Garcia Mr. James Kent Gilliam Ms. Lisa Gray Mr. Campbell A. Griffin, Jr. Ms. Christine Hale Anne and Charles W. Hall Stephanie M. Harp
Anitra Johnson, M.D. Mr. Kirk Jordan Ms. Anne Lamkin Kinder Mr. & Mrs. Barry King Mr. John T. McMahan Ms. Tracy McMullen Mr. Bob McNamara Mr. & Mrs. Roger Medors Leila & Walter Mischer
Karol & Daniel Musher Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth O’Rear Ms. Beth Otillar Mr. and Mrs. Shaw Ottis Ms. Robbie Pape Mr. Robert Parke Vicky & Michael L. Richker Ms. Caitlin Rollins Mr. Andrew Schumacher Michelle Shwarzman Dr. Frances Smith Wayne & Becky Sneed Mr. Aldo Sordelli Mr. Brad Tucker David Waterbor Uthe Ms. Sharron Wall
Vega Frank & Debbie Adams Ms. Ginger Ales & Ms. Sheila Calloway Ms. Janice Alexander Jamie & Robert Allen Ms. Leslie Kiefer Amann Ms. Christina Anderson Mr. Mark Anderson
Megan Annecharico
Anonymous x 5 Mr. Thomas Arcidiacono Gabrielle & Nabil Arwadi Ms. Nola Ash Mr. & Mrs. James L. Asher
Erin Aycox Mr. Mike Bahorich
Mr. & Mrs. Malcolm Bailey Linda & Don Baker
David & Adrienne Bash
Margaret and George Basu Mr. Michael Bates Ms. Laura Beard Ms. Betty Beathard Ms. Lisa Befort
Mr. & Mrs. Justo Benitez
Sandy & Gerald Bennett Carol & Kim Bennetts
Mr. James Black
Mrs. Virginia R. Blanton Ms. Tammi Blevins Ms. Judy Blissard
Barbara & Thomas Blocher
Mr. Steven Bogard
Ms. Valentina Bondar Ms. Brenda Boren
Mary Bourne-Marth & Jeff Marth Mr. Timothy Brady Ms. Paige Brandt Mr. James Brooks Mr. Frank Brown Mr. Steve Brown Linda & Mike Brownlee Susan Bruce
Janet & Jim Brugman
Davi Bryan Mr. Kenneth Buckner Mr. Thomas Bundy Mr. Jeremy Burgon Mr. Andrew Burns Ms. Carlyn A. Burton Mrs. Jo Butterfield Ms. Montie Callager Mr. & Mrs. Bill A. Camp Mr. Steve A. Carbone
Mr. Charles Carmouche Mr. Frank L. Cascio, Jr. Esti Castresana Mrs. Rebecca Cates Ms. Kenedia M. Chalmers
Mr. John Champion Mr. Franklin Chaney Ms. Theresa Chang Ms. Denise Cipolla Mr. Steve Clark Mr. Chris Claunch Judy & Art Coen Ellen & Paige M. Cokinos Mr. Devan Cooper-Jackson Mr. Joseph Corriere, Jr. Rich Images Counts Mr. David R. Crabtree Leslie Crawford Karyn & Charles Crisp
Mr. & Mrs. Charles W. Crowl, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Charles Cynowa Beverly & Tommy Davis Mr. Terry Lee Day Dora & Dennis Dellinger Mr. & Mrs. James A. Dement, Jr. Robin & Ron DeSimone Arienne & George Devassal Johanna DeYoung & John Vindekilde Mr. Edward Domingue Mrs. Diana L. Dorsey Ms. Brooke Doyle Ms. Josey Duke David Dykas Ms. Sonja Earthman Novo Dr. Lea Ann Matura and Mr. Mike Edwards Katherine & William Edwards Mr. Kenneth D. Eichner Ms. Kelly Elliott David Ellis Bonnie B. Eubanks Ms. Marjorie Evans Mr. & Mrs. Eric Ewen Ms. Lisa Fahey Mr. & Mrs. John B. Falcon Claudia & Mark Fenske Ms. Laura Fertak Mr. Woodja “Dennis” Flannigan, PhD & Mr. Thomas Jolley Mr. & Mrs. Raymond C. Floyd Gary & Denice Foose Mr. Charles C. Foster Carol & Larry Fradkin
Tony & Pat Frank Ms. Lyn Fu Mr. & Mrs. Toby Fullmer Ms. Nicole Wood & Mr. Chris Galvan Dr. & Mrs. Robert Garcia Ms. Leslie Gassner
Mr. Gregory Gehrt Ms. Cynthia Geiger Ms. Karen Gilmore Mrs. Lynn Guggolz
Mr. Christopher Glenn Mr. & Mrs. Bobby Goldsmith
Peggy & Michael Goodman Mr. Mel Goodson Dr. & Mrs. Lewis Gottschalk Ms. Sharon Goza Dr. & Mrs. David Y. Graham Mr. Christopher Green Mr. Dick H. Gregg, Jr. Bonnie & Jerry Greif
Ms. Kimberly Grigsby Christopher Grum Lisa & Don Guedry Ms. Mystan Gurkin
Jon Halbur
Mr. & Mrs. James E. Haley Mr. & Mrs. David Hall Ms. Karen Hanson-Flowers
Ms. Ellen Happe Phillips Mr. and Mrs. C. Gregory Harper Mr. & Mrs. Morris N. Harper Lynn & Purvis Harper Alison & Robert Harrell Ms. Lori Hart Mr. & Mrs. Scott Hawkins Ms. Deborah Hendryx
Marie & Bob Hentges The Herrington Law Firm Ms. Mary A. Hill Marilyn & Chris Hilliard Mrs. Janice Himpele Glenda & Edward Hoerner Ms. Ellen Holloway Mr. & Mrs. Eric Holm Susan & Wade Hopper Ms. Janiece Horn Dr. Angela Houghton Mr. Gerald Humphrey Mr. Leo & Minnie Hung Ms. Lavearn Ivey Mr. Chris Job Mr. John Johnson Mr. Philip Johnson Mr. & Mrs. J. B. Jones Mr. & Mrs. W. Carl Jordan Mr. Keith Karnoski Ms. Cindy Alexis Keene Bryan & Anna Kelley Mr. Mark Kelly Mr. Guy Kidd Mr. & Mrs. Colin Kiernan Mrs. Jessica King Mr. Dale Kinney Mr. & Mrs. Donald Koch Mr. Heamo Koo
Dr. & Mrs. Dudley Koy Ms. Monique R. Krause Kay and Wilfred Krenek Mr. Scott Krivacka Ms. Daniella Landers
Joni & Jerry Landon Mr. & Mrs. Garry Landowski Mr. L. C. Lawyer Ms. Barbara League Mr. Larry Leavell Mr. Bryan Leblanc Susie & Ronald Leftwich Mr. & Mrs. Rowdy Lemoine Cindy E. Levit Ms. Carolyn A. Lightfoot Tracy & Greg Lisewsky Mr. Keith Little Ms. Vicky Livingston Mai & David Loan Kimberly & Alison Long Mr. Stephen Longmire Mr. Anthony R. Love Mr. William K. Luyties Dr. & Mrs. Robert A. MacLean Sandy & Steve Maness Mr. Richard Mann Ben & Meredith Marshall Ms. Elaine Martin Ms. Patti Massaro Mrs. Linda Massie Harold & Linda Bozeman Wendy & Eric Mattson Doug Maunder Ms. Genie Mayer Becky & Bart McAndrews Debbie McAngus Mrs. Peaches A. McCroskey John & Linda McDonald Ms. Kandee McGill Ms. Dolores J. McGinnes Ms. Cynthia McManis Ms. Ashley A. McPhail Mr. and Mrs. Patrick McWilliams Dr. & Mrs. Anthony Melillo Mr. & Mrs. Norman B. Mensing Cara & George Millas Mr. & Mrs. Harold Miller Ms. Virginia Miller Ms. Nancy Moncrief Ms. Christina Moore Dr. Jack Moore
Mr. & Mrs. Ricky Moorer Stephanie & Bruce Morris Ms. Anita Mueller Ms. Andrea Nall
Kelsey Nanneman Ms. Jackie Nation Mr. Brandon Ned Mr. & Mrs. William Neuman Fredric & Joan Newton Dr. Kevin & Cathy Nickell
Mr. & Mrs. Greg Norman Shayla & Chris Northcutt
Mr. Jake O’Brien Mr. Sean O’Brien Anna & Gene Oeding Beverly & Staman Ogilvie
Ms. Julia Christine Oliver Drs. John & Sharon Olson Mark & Christine O’Rear
Mr. Joseph Ortiz Luis Ms. Jane Osborne Cookie & Richard Pacheco
Ms. Crystal Parker Daniel and Lena Paul
Lisa Paulk Mr. Jim Peacock Ms. Elizabeth Pennock
Mr. & Mrs. John E. Peper
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Pera Mr. Douglas Perley
Mrs. Mary Platt Mr. James Q. Pope Ms. Susan Porter
Brittany & Blake Pratz
Mrs. Megan Prout Mr. & Mrs. David Quinn
Maria & Robert Ragazzo Ms. Anne B. Rappold
Sandy & Mike Reckles Mr. John Redmon Aileen & James Reilly Mr. and Mrs. John M. Richards III Mr. John Richey Ms. Carey Roberton Ms. Buffi Robinson Ms. Jane Robinson Ms. Patricia G. Roche Jay and Brandee Rogers Mrs. Sybil Roos Karen & Frank Rosales Mr. Andrew Rossi Allen & Anne Routon Ms. Brenda Rubenstein Mr. Kevin Ruffcorn Ms. Mary Rushing Ms. Teresa Russo Ms. Rhonda Sands Mrs. Elise Joseph & Mrs. Leslie Sasser Ms. Judy Sauer Patty & Zip Saxon Diane & Michael Scharck
Terry & Sam Schlanger Mr. & Mrs. Rusty Schlattman Ms. Kimberly Schmidt Mr. & Mrs. Marc Schneider Buddy Schorre & Beth McKim Mr. Joseph W. Schwaiger Ms. Gloria J. Schwartz Sally & Neal Scott Ms. Lynda Seaman Mr. John Searle Vernette Shaffer Dr. Hemali Shah Ms. Mitzi Shure
Irene & Scott Sipes Ms. Jill Sisler Toni Skaff Diana Skerl Ms. Charlotte Smith Stephanie & Gavin Smith/ Jennie & Ralph Hull Mr. Halden Smith Sharon & Walter Smith Mr. William A. Smith Mr. Bob Sovine Ms. Toni Speer Ms. Mary Louise Sanderson Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Stearns Ms. Anne-Laure Stephens Ms. Dawn Stoecker Mr. William O. Strange Mr. Milton Tate Mr. Thomas B. Taylor Ms. Karen Tellepsen Carol & Vincenzo Terracina Mr. & Mrs. Gary E. Tesch Marjorie Therrell Ms. Beverly G. Thetford Ms. Lisa To Mr. Seth Tobey Mr. James Trent Ms. Anita Udayamurthy Miquette & Vic Uhrenholdt Carol & Herman Vacca Mr. & Mrs. Richard Vance Ms. Kathleen Vandegiessen Mr. David Vannauker Dr. & Mrs. Robert C. Vanzant Mr. & Mrs. Paul J. Varello Ms. Amy Vasquez Sherri & Jon Volger Mr. & Mrs. Fred Wahrlich Mr. Rondal Walker Dr. & Mrs. J. Anthony Walter, III Dr. Nancy Webb and Mr. David Webb Mrs. Nancy Wennerstrom Ms. Shirley Whitmore Ms. Michelle Williams Mr. & Mrs. Bill Winslade Mr. & Mrs. Tedd J. Winter Mr. & Mrs. Edmond Wise Mr. Mark Woods James & Patricia Wuerth Ms. Deborah Yocham Francene Young Dr. Ann Ziker
Comet Ms. Molly Adames Patty & Kenneth Albers Mr. Tom Anderson Ms. Fernanda Andrade
Anonymous x 3 Ms. Socorro Aragon Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Bennett Greg Berry Ms. Patricia Biggio Mr. Richard Blair Diane & Mark Blankers
Mrs. Jenée Jongebloed Bobbora & Mr. Bill Bobbora Mr. Kurt Bouillion Mary & Jim Boyles Mr. Brian Bricarell Ms. Melita Brown Mr. Richard Cain Mr. Franklin Carnes Mr. Michael S. Clements Mr. Shane Cleveland Ms. Caryn Cohan Sue & Chris Conway Ms. Retta Cook Ms. Alicia Cooley Ms. Barbara Cullison Francois Daube Mr. Joseph Davidson Mr. Carl A. Davis Mr. Bernard De Lisi Mr. Jason Decker Ms. Kara Deis Ms. Patricia Dolan Ms. Dominique Drake Jason Ervin
Mr. Richard Espinosa Mr. & Mrs. Steven J. Finkelman Philip G. Fraher
Mrs. DeAnn Franklin & Mr. Wayne Comer Gerald Gehm Ms. Angelic Green Ms. Anita Grimes Dr. Barry F. Gritz Mr. and Mrs. William Haase Mr. David Joseph Habegger Mr. And Mrs. M. Breen Haire Dr. Katherine Hale Mr. and Mrs. Lyle Hall Jon & Judy Harris Mrs. Heather H. Hawthorne Mr. Harvey Heller
Ms. Hope Hernandez Ms. Teresita Hernandez Mr. Gilchrist Jackson Alison & Robert Jefferies Mr. and Ms. David R. Judson Mr. Albert J. Kelly Mr. Terry Knell Marilyn & William Ladd Jennifer & Brian Lamb
Mr. & Mrs. Norm Lanier Mr. David Leeds Mr. Daniel E. LeGaye Sr Ms. Meredith Lewis Mr. Robert J. Llorente Rebecca Lloyd Renita Lott Mrs. Robbie Lowrey Ms. Ivy Loyd Ms. Kathleen Lyttleton Ms. Teresa S. Manherz Chris Manske Mr. Derek Matta Mr. Daniel Maxwell Mrs. Florence McGee Sheri and Thomas McGowan Ms. Dawn Meade Mr. Michael Menendez Ms. Michelle Merkelis Ms. Mary Meyers Mr. Richard Moen Mr. Phil Morgan Mr. Robert Mulrooney Karen & Paige Nicolaou Ms. Wendy Nugent & Ms. Laura Knizner Ms. Jennifer Ofsowitz Ms. Marty S. Olson Mr. & Mrs. Dan Ownby Mr. Karan Passey Rachel & Michael Pawson
Mr. David Peavy Mr. Robert Pechacek Retta & William Pollio Mr. Daniel Ponce
Kristin & Jeff Potts
Ms. Linda M. Rhodes
Ms. Regina J. Rogers Mr. Gregory Rozenfeld
Mr. Thomas Ryan Mr. Joey Salter
Ms. Anna Savitz
Tricia Schoon
Mr. Michael Scott
Ms. Barbara Sebek
Ms. Cissy Segall Davis
Ms. Susan Seybold Ms. Elizabeth Sievertson
Ms. Cynthia Sitterle Mr. Harrison Sladic Mrs. Mallory G. Spence Ms. Debra Sprague Mr. Ronald Stein Dr. Frances Stetson
Mr. & Mrs. E. H. Stork, Jr. Dr. & Mrs. Brian Talbot Ms. Tricia Thibodeaux
Brittany Thompson Nancy & Peter Thompson Mr. Marshall Titus
THE OBSERVATORY FALL 2022 THEATRE UNDER THE STARS 23 22
*Gifts received between May 16, 2021 and May 16, 2022
DONOR LISTING
** In-kind Donor † Chair ‡ Committee Member
Mr. Jack Torregrossa
Ms. Tiffany Tyler
Mr. James Ward and Ms. Karen Rugaard
Ms. Virginia Watt Mr. Paul Wehner
Candace Weinstein
John & Wendy Welch Cari White
Mrs. Nancy White
Anonymous Kathy Wolfe Ms. Chandra Womack
Ms. Charlene Wright
Anonymous
Mr. and Mrs. Sherif Zaafran Robert L. Zylstra
North Star Dr. Kim Abrego
Stephen Adell
Ms. Wendy Adler
Pamela & Richard Ahlers
Victoria Airey Ms. Carol Alberts
Mrs. Christy L. Alspaw
Ms. Leslie Alter
Mr. & Mrs. Thomas C. Altman
Dr. Daniel Anderson
Ms. Debbie Anderson
Ms. Lindsey Anderson
Mr. Scott Anderson
Ms. Virginia Angermiller Anonymous x 5 Ms. Megan Anson Tracy Arceneaux
Andronica Armstrong
Eric Armstrong Juilie & David Armstrong Ms. Katy Arnold Tory & Gabe Arriage Ms. Lois Ash Mr. Tom Atkinson Forbes Baker
Mr. Kevin Baker Ryan Balazs Kathy & James Balow Mr. Ashok Balsaver
Ms. Jeanine Banks
Ms. Susie Barksdale
Ms. Sheryl Barrett lawrence j. barris
Mrs. Nayeli M. Basden
Michael Bayer Heidi Beale & Sue Rowe Ms. Dana Bellow
Ms. Stacey Berndt
Pamela & James Bernick
Mr. Robert Betancourt
Mr. Ivan Langford Ms. Denise Shiver Ms. Jo Blankenship Mr. Rick Blount
Nancy E. Bogenrieder Mr. Douglas Bosse Mr. Hugh Fraser Ms. Kelly Wells
Peter Bradley Mr. Edward Brasher Ms. Amy Breedlove Ms. Mary Brennan Judith & Herk Briggs Mr. James A. Brown
Mr. William Brown
Ms. Susan Brown-Rogers and Mr. Bert Rogers
Mr. Lance G. Brumlow
Mrs. Lori A. Brunner
Ms. Diane Buchanan Ms. Rebecca Burdette
Ms. Carolyn Berner Ms. Ann S. Byers
Ms. Paula Guillory
Mr. Shawn Byrnes
Mr. Greg Cain
Mr. James Campbell
Ms. Michele Campbell Ms. Steffanie Campbell Mr. Jesse Campos III
Mr. & Mrs. Mick Cantu
Ms. Patricia Cantu
Ms. Carolyn Carlson Ms. Romy Cassack
Mr. Gary Causey
Jose Cavazos
Mr. Peter Cayea
Mrs. Jennifer K. Center- Fluegge
Summer Chandler
Corey Chao Ms. Jaclyn Cheslock
Calvin Chew
Mark E. Ciavaglia
Ms. Melanie Cizik
Ms. Gean Clark
Mr. Robert Clark
David Clements
Mr. Robert M. Clements
Stacy Clines
Ms. Pamela Cobb Mr. Matthew Cochran
Renay Cohen Ms. Barbara Coleman Mr. Tracey Colligan Mr. Tom Comstock Mr. Thomas Conroy Ms. Angela Cooley Dr. Galen K. Cooper Ms. Irma Cornejo Ms. Meghan Cornelius Ms. Jessica Cornwall Ms. Raquel Couri Mrs. Janis Crabtree Ms. Eileen Crues
Javier Cuellar
Mr. Alex E. Cummings Mr. Rene Dartez
Mr. Amro Darwish Ms. Esmeralda De La Cruz Ms. June Deadrick
Jessica Deaguero
Ms. Katherine Deffebach Ms. Katy Deljoui Mr. David D. Dernick Mr. Gary L. DeShazer Jr Ms. Hallie Desilet Ms. Christine Diaz Mr. Alejandro Diego
Courtney Diehl Ms. Sandra Ditta Mr. Christopher Donnelly Mrs. Sharon J. Drake Gregory Duffey Mr. Patrick Durio Mr. Raymond Duroy Mr. Robert Kasey Dykes Ramsay M. Elder Robert Endicott Mani Erfan Mrs. Judith M. Essex Mr. Thomas Evans Mr. John Eyster Mr. Greg Faldyn Carrie and Brad Farmer Wendy & David Farner Ms. Deborah Faubion Ms. Carolyn L. Faulk Ms. Fredrica Fester Ms. Christina Fields Mrs. Lindsay Fields James W. Fieser
Shannon Finger Mr. David Fitzgerald Mrs. Neala Fogarty Ms. DeEtta Folse & Ms. Mary Folse Donna L. Fontenot Ms. Carol Fortney Gary Foster Mr. William Frailey Mr. Gary Frueh Mrs. Natalie Fulmer Ms. Heidi Furlong Mr. Sergio Galicia Ms. Aimee Galley
Jeff Garrett Ms. Donna Gartner Ms. Cynthia Garza Maria V. Garza
Jamie Gaspard Mr. and Mrs. Mark Gibennus Mignon & Steve Gill Mr. & Mrs. Robert T. Givens Ms. Dorothy Goforth Marris & Robert Goldberg Ms. Anne Goldsmith Mr. Amando Gonzalez Mrs. Angie Gonzalez Ms. Alicia Goodrow Dr. Bradford S. Goodwin Ms. Carolyn Gordon Ms. Sydney Goss Mrs. Christine E. Gould Ms. Kim Grace Mr. James Graff
Mr. & Mrs. Robert H. Graham Ms. Susan Graham Lind M. Granderson
Kari Granier
Mr. Doug Greenhill Ms. Maria Greer Mr. Jack P. Griffin
Ms. Kelly Griffin Mrs. Cynthia Grimmett Kathi Groom
Mr. Anthony Guccione Jessie Guerrero
Julie Gundy Mrs. Laurie Gutierrez Leslie J. Haack
Joan Hachtel
Mr. Pat N. Hardesty Jr
Mr. & Mrs. Robert L. Hargrave Ms. Renee Harkrider Ms. Jane Harrell
Ms. Judy Harris Mr. Eugene Hellman Ms. Ann E. Hicks
Mr. Michael Hoberman
Ms. Janis Hodgson Mr. Carl Holley
Mr. John R. Holmes Jr Ms. Kathleen Holtwick Mrs. Vivian Hoyle Ms. Rebecca Hubert Mr. Tim Hunt Michael Iliopoulos Ms. Mary Impelman Ms. Leslie Irish Ms. Rachel Isbell Mr. Christian Iversen Mr. Quenby Jackson Mott Leanne Jackson
Judy & Charles Jalufka
Kendrick James Mrs. Margaret Janssen Ms. Leticia Jaroski Ms. Jean Wyatt and Mr. Paul Rhodes
Leslie Jelsma Ms. Shirley Jennings Ms. Sue Ellen Jennings Ms. Christine Jones Ms. Donnie Jones Ms. LaKeisha Jones Laurel J. Joseph Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Jungels Ms. Misty Kaiser Ms. Elyse Kalmans
Geraldine & Jay Karkowsky Mr. John Kauffman Mrs. Laura Keith
Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Nevlud Ms. Judy Kinder Theodore W. Kirpach Ms. Ann Kivney Mr. Craig Koopersmith
Mr. and Mrs. Jason Korfhage Mr. Tyler Krupp Ms. Brinda Kunapuli Mr. William Lanier Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Lattu Cynthia Laviage Sandy & Don Lazenby Sally Lehnert Ms. Megan Lembcke Sheila L. Lemon Dr. Matt L. Lenz Mr. Coby Leslie Ms. Lisa Leslie Mrs. Rona Lesser Ms. Dee Liepman Cindy & Bill Lillard Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Loeser Mr. Hugo Lopez Jr. Ms. Susana Lozano Ms. Debbie Ludwig Ms. Elizabeth Lunden Mr. and Mrs. Demetri Magoulas Ms. Susan Maher Dr. and Mrs. Howard Marblestone Mr. Terry Marriott Kathy Martin Ms. Kay Mason Mary M Massad Carl Mathis Ms. Christalee McCuen Mr. Clay McDaniel Norman Mcdaniel Ms. Julie McDonald Michael McEvilly Tyler McGuire Patricia McKaskle Dr. Deryl W. Mckenzie Mrs. Cyndie A. McNamee Ms. Lindsey McPherson Mr. Craig Mcphie Ms. Amanda Meadows Mr. Mark Mekeel Mr. Mervin Melancon Ms. Shari Meloy Ms. Carolyn Mendez Ms. Ruth Mendez Ms. Cathy Metcalf Mr. Robert Michaels Ms. Peggysue Michalec Mrs. Diane Miller Laurie Miller Ms. Sandra Miller Mr. and Mrs. Larry Millican Mr. Brad Mills Ms. Cathy Mincberg Mrs. Mary Moen Ms. Carol Montague Debbie Moore Ms. Teresa Moran Mr. Michael Morgan Mr. Robbie Mullennix Kelly Mullman Nicole & John Nelles
Mr. & Mrs. Brad Neuliep Mr. Michael Norby Betty and John Norkus Ms. Meadow Noyer Brad Nyberg & Anne Loo
Mr. Jake Obrien Ms. Connie O’Murray Karla and Dennis O’Reilly
Beth Orr
Julie & Kenneth Owen Ms. Jory Pacht
Ms. Grace Pagan Mr. Ralph Palmer Steven E. Parks Mr. & Mrs. Wilton L. Pate Mr. and Mrs. Robert Patton Mr. Rogers Patton Mr. David Paul Ms. Susan Payne Mrs. Bethany Pedley Sarah Peirce Ms. Judith A. Perez Ms. Kelley Peters Ms. Linda Pierce Mr. William Poole Ms. Gail Pope Mr. Wayde Prejean Shalla Prichard George Pringle Scott M. Prochazka Mr. Derric Pryor Mr. Calvin Ray Mr. and Mrs. Robert Reckers Ms. Gretchen D. Redding Karen Reed Dr. Karen Rees Janice & Alan Rendl Edna Renfrow-Brown Ms. Robin Rice Gillian A. Rittman Ms. Lara Roberts Ms. Melody Robie Mr. and Mrs. John Rohrer Alex R. Roman Mr. Joshua Romero Mr. & Mrs. Myron Rosenberg Mr. Duane Ross Ms. Carrie Roux Sabra Ehrhart Ms. Lisa Salom Ms. Martha Sandia Ms. Bernice Satterwhite Don Savell Ms. Kathleen Sazama Ms. Sonya Schoen Mrs. Sallie Schwall Mr. Bryan Scrivner Mr. Mark Scroggins Ms. Theresa Sewell Ms. Victoria Rentz Mr. Drew Shefman Ms. Pat Sherlock Mr. Billy Shipley Ms. Kristine Shuman Mr. James K. Simmons Ms. Nancy Sims Ms. Susan Sjolin Ms. Lisa Skelton Rebecca & David Skodack Mrs. Carol J. Smith Ms. Joy Smith Ms. Patricia Snyder Thia A. Sorina Mr. Roger Souders Ms. Nicole A. Staley-Owens Ms. Sarah Stegall Ms. Susan Stelter Ms. Kellie Stephens Ellen A. Stephenson Ms. Cathy Stevenson Ms. Elizabeth Stewart Jackie Lehnoff & Kaaren Stoeltje Ms. Barbara Stokes Mr. and Mrs. Stone Ms. Rebecca Storey Dr. Ruth Strudler Ms. Jennifer Suazo Mr. Robert Surprenant Ms. Amy Sutton Mr. Charles Sutton Jennifer Svoboda Ms. Beth Swanson Ms. Nicole Talbot Ms. Rita F. Tang Ms. Marilyn Taylor Robin Taylor-Smith Ms. Jamie Tejeda Mr. Wayne Templeton Martha & Jim Theiss Mrs. Cindy Thomas Ms. Ana Thompson Ms. Cynthia Thompson Mrs. Audrey Thorpe Ms. Renee Tidwell Mrs. Sara K. Tirado Ms. Lauren Toubassi Mr. Paul Trahan Mrs. Tami Trock
Joan & Eugene Tulich Mr. Phillip Turboff Ms. Carla Ude Mr. & Mrs. Vandewalker Ms. Alexandra Vasquez Ms. Audra Velleca Ms. Dianne K. Vitaska Ms. Annick Vogel Mr. and Mrs. John Walker Ms. Carol Walsh
Mr. Gary Ward Ms. Connye Ware Mr. Alan Watson
Mr. Dennis Watson Tracy Weeden Jennifer Wells Mr. Doug Wenglar Bethany Wentzel Ken & Devi Wenzel Ms. Daniel West Ms. Jennifer West Mr. Peter V. Weston Joe White Ms. Justina White Mrs. Martha White Mrs. Pat A. Whitten-Lege Ms. Patricia Wilburn Mr. Jim Wilkins James S. Wilkinson Kristin Williams Ms. Cindy Williamson Mrs. Judith F. Witteman Mr. and Ms. Roman Wolff Ms. Joyce Worthington Ms. Kathleen Wright Ms. Linda Yandell Ms. Peggy Yu Mrs. Susan Zeller Ms. Eloise Zenger
ANNUAL FUND SUPPORT
INSTITUTIONAL DONORS
$200,000+
The Brown Foundation, Inc. City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance The Wortham Foundation, Inc. $100,000+ Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts Freeport LNG Development, L.P. Hampton Inn / Homewood Suites Downtown The Humphreys Foundation Texas Commission on the Arts
$50,000+ ConocoPhillips The Elkins Foundation H-E-B M.D. Anderson Foundation Shell USA, Inc. $25,000+ Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital Corebridge Financial Enbridge U.S., Inc. Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo InterLinc Family Foundation United Airlines* Vivan L. Smith Foundation
$15,000+ The Alkek and Williams Foundation CFP Foundation David Peck* Albert and Ethel Herzstein Charitable Foundation Impact100 Houston KnowAutism Foundation Pierpont Communications The William Stamps Farish Fund
$10,000+ MacDonald-Peterson Foundation The Medallion Foundation, Inc. National Endowment for the Arts $5,000+ Berg & Androphy CenterPoint Energy Foundation George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation Gordon A. Cain Foundation Innovation Vista Norfolk Southern Foundation Matching Gifts Program ServiceMaster Cleaning Pros Young Performer Advocacy Program
$2,500+ Sterling Family Foundation
Target Board Leadership Gifts Lu Ann Katz Jay Landa Herb Listen Bret Oliver Julie Pradel James Shaffer Heather Sirdashney
Advisory Board Leadership Gifts Nancy Brownlee James L. Tribble Bruce Vincent Carrie Woliver
THE OBSERVATORY FALL 2022 THEATRE UNDER THE STARS 25 24
*Gifts received between May 16, 2021 and May 16, 2022
** In-kind Donor † Chair ‡ Committee Member
LIGHTS UP 2022 DONORS
PRE-EVENT SUPPORT
Mezzanine
Margaret Alkek Williams
Dolores Cavatore & John Tobola
Patricia & Sig Cornelius
Demetra & Franklin Jones / Greenberg Traurig, LLP
John L. Nau, III
Balcony Baker Botts LLP
Patrice Baumann McKinney and Jay Landa Bob & Cathy Binstock
Corebridge Financial Ernst & Young Dr. Connie Faro & Dr. Patrick Duffy
Freeport LNG Memorial Hermann
David Peck
Amy & Rob Pierce
Vinson & Elkins Winston & Strawn, LLP
Gallery
ConocoPhillips
Grant Thornton LLP
The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts
John P. McGovern Foundation
King & Spalding LLP
Other Event Donors
Margaret & George Basu
Guy & Martha Benham
Nancy & Avin Brownlee
Mr. Steven L. Burkett &
Ms. Margaret C. Lombardo
Zane & Brady Carruth
Sue & Chris Conway
Dr. & Mrs. Cal Dalton
June Deadrick
Mrs. Marcela E. Donadio & Mr. Lawrence R. Dickerson
Sharon & Jim Hickey
Mrs. Jenée Jongebloed Bobbora &
Mr. Bill Bobbora
Lu Ann & Morton Katz
Paige & Ron May
Bart & Becky McAndrews
Joan & Phil Morabito
Shelly & Jerome Mulanax
Roxann & Tim Neumann
Elaine & Johnny Pickle
Julie & Tom Pradel
Tricia & Alan Ratliff
Karen & Rick Richards
Julie & Joel Schweers
Dr. Deborah & Mr. Adrian Shelley
Heather Sirdashney
Stephanie & Gavin Smith
Sterling Marsha & David Taylor
Meredith & Raffi Tcholakian
Bridget & Tom Tomlinson
Leticia & Steve Trauber, in honor of Patricia & Sig Cornelius
Mrs. Lynda Underwood
Julia & Bruce Vincent Charlotte & Larry Whaley
AUCTION SUPPORTERS
Kim Anderson Beth & Jonathan Baubie
Patrice Baumann McKinney and Pete McKinney
Martha & Guy Benham
Cathy & Robert Binstock
Robert Bowman
Natacha & Quentin Buchanan
Connally & Mark Burroughs
Kimberly Catchall
Marian & Austin Cornelius
Patricia & Sig Cornelius
Sarah & Jose Cruz
Adam Cryer
Jennifer & Chris Daniel
Kadisha & Joe Davidson
Drs. Sakina & George Davis
Victoria & Mark Ellis
Dr. Constance Faro
Mrs. Monica Fulton
Jordan & Mark Gibennus
Marris & Robert Goldberg
Anna Gryska
Hillary & Jarrett Hook
Rebecca & Timothy Hunt
Larissa & Scott Ipsen
Lawrence Jamieson
Demetra & Frank Jones, Jr.
Melissa Jurik
Mr. Jay Landa & Mr. Daniel Turner
Kellie & KC Lavergne
Cheryl & Herb Listen
Ms. April Little
Penny & Paul Loyd Jr.
Jodi & Justin Navaretta
Jonathan Novitsky
Mr. and Mrs. Shaw Ottis
Michelle Phillips
Elaine & Johnny Pickle Suzanne Reyes & Robert Scheinerman William Roberts
Julie & Joel Schweers
Mr. Brandon Sear and Mr. Ralph Elsenbast
Heather Sirdashney
Aerin & Quentin Smith
Jeff and Jessika Smith
Cliff & Julie Thompson Dolores & John Tobola
Bridget and Tom Tomlinson
Kelley & David Tompkins
Anthony Tran
Robert Tyndall
Vicki & Adam Valentine
Rebekah Wesley Jacqueline White
PADDLES
AUCTION DONORS
BB’s Tex Orleans
Bernhardt Winery
Children’s Museum of Houston David Peck June Deadrick
Dessert Gallery Bakery & Café Fleet Feet Frank’s Americana
Gringo’s Mexican Kitchen
Hamilton Shirts
Hilton Americas-Houston
Houston Aquarium
Houston Asia Society
Houston Axe Throwing
Houston Cinema Arts Society
Houston Grand Opera
Houston Symphony
Houston Zoo Htown Restaurant Group
J. Landa Jewelry Jessie’s Bites
Kendra Scott
Main Street Theater
Manready Mercantile
Messina Hof Winery
Nice Winery Nos Caves Vin Amy & Rob Pierce
Pure Body Studio
Robin Jackson Photography
SeaWorld San Antonio
Skydive Spaceland Houston
The Bar Method Houston – Montrose
The Catastrophic Theatre
The Ensemble Theatre
The Leaning Pear Warehouse 72
UP & OTHER DONATIONS
Kimberly & Barry Adkins
David Albert Ayoub Sr Tassandra & Michael Allen
Kim Anderson
Nory Angel
Saba Balagia
Patrice Baumann McKinney and Pete McKinney
Natacha & Quentin Buchanan
Maria & Neil Bush Marian & Austin Cornelius Patricia & Sig Cornelius Alexander Dailey
Dr. & Mrs. Cal Dalton
Drs. Sakina & George Davis Pam & Robert Doty Dr. Constance Faro Jessica Fields
Mark Folkes
Marris & Robert Goldberg James Hampton Michael Hawes
Sharon & Jim Hickey
Rebecca & Timothy Hunt
Larissa & Scott Ipsen
Ashley Jones
Mr. Jay Landa & Mr. Daniel Turner
Cheryl & Herb Listen
Ms. April Little Becky & Bart McAndrews
Natalie & John McElroy Lindsey & Scott McReaken
Paul Morico
Amber Mostyn Jodi & Justin Navaretta
Jonathan Novitsky
Mr. and Mrs. Shaw Ottis
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Perkins Elaine & Johnny Pickle
Julie & Joel Schweers
Mr. Brandon Sear and Mr. Ralph Elsenbast
Mr. Derrick Shore Jeff and Jessika Smith
Allison & Troy Thacker
Cliff & Julie Thompson
Bridget and Tom Tomlinson
Kelley & David Tompkins
Vicki & Adam Valentine
Gina & John Williamson
Well Done Cooking Classes Woodlands Wellness
THEATRE UNDER THE STARS 26
*Gifts received between May 16, 2021 and
16, 2022
May
If you have questions about your giving or would like to change your donor recognition listing, please email development@tuts.com
Ben Fankhauser as Brantley Foster in TUTS 2022 production of The Secret of My Success; photo credit: Melissa Taylor
SAVE THE DATE
SPECIAL SCREENING OF CHICAGO
Friday, December 30th
7:30 PM at Rooftop Cinema Club
TUTS and Houston favorite, Rooftop Cinema Club, are partnering in a screening of the Academy Award-winning film of Chicago
For information on tickets please visit tuts.com or rooftopcinemaclub.com/houston
STARGAZERS SALON
Open to donors at the Nova level and above, our newly reimagined Stargazers Salon offers a sanctuary of entertainment at every TUTS show. Enjoy a glass of wine and light bites; mix and mingle with your fellow donors and other musical theatre-lovers. You may even catch a glimpse of a rising star in the form of one of our young artists sharing a tune before the show. Stargazers Salon is open during every TUTS performance beginning an hour and a half before curtain and during intermission.
For questions please contact Alvin.Weingartner@tuts.com
TECH TALKS
Saturday, May 13, 2023 11:00 AM at Sarofim Hall
Witness how TUTS turns an empty stage into the setting of our next big production. During a Tech Talk, our technical theatre experts explain how they transform spaces and places into instruments of art. Whether it is how costumes are made or how lighting and scenic pieces are set, you’re invited to get an insider view of how a production is crafted. Enjoy cookies and coffee in the Mezzanine with your fellow TUTS donors, as our artistic and production teams share the technical magic behind this brand-new production of RENT
For questions please contact Alvin.Weingartner@tuts.com
MORE THAN SONG AND DANCE
Saturday, April 1, 2023
12:00 PM at Founders Club
Like all artforms, musical theatre has a rich history. The always delightful Paul Hope will entertain you with stories, videos, and background on our upcoming TUTS productions, including Legally Blonde and RENT Hope has the distinction of being cast in the most productions in TUTS history – more than 40! You won’t want to miss out on his personal anecdotes and engaging storytelling. More Than Song and Dance promises to be the most fun you’ll ever have at a luncheon!
For questions please contact Alvin.Weingartner@tuts.com
CREDITS
Executive Director – Hillary J Hart
Artistic Director – Dan Knechtges
Director of Development – Melissa Jurik Manager of Donor Stewardship – Alvin Weingartner Graphic Designer – Bryce Bowie
STAFF CONTRIBUTORS
Breana Carrier Eileen Edmonds
Melissa Jurik Emily Manck White Jessica Nieto Seth Pecore Laura Peete Jacob Shideler
TUTS STAFF
Senior Leadership Team
Chris Brislin, Eileen Edmonds, Michael Gepner, Melissa Jurik, Laura Peete
Artistic & Production
Jessica Casanova, Colleen Grady, Skye Krienitz, Monique L. Midgette
Development Jennifer Block, Kathleen Blute, Breana Carrier, Emily Manck White, Alvin Weingartner
Education & Community Engagement
Gloria Brown, Calvin Hudson, Jessica Nieto, Seth Pecore, Jacob Shideler
Finance
Phyllis Bema Agyeman, Rita Anderson
Human Resources and Administration
Ana Glaze, Cynthia Mendoza, LaMonica Rideaux
Marketing
Bryce Bowie, Elizabeth Gentry, Lisa Holmes, Ja’Lisa Jones, Bridget Morgan, Ruben Vela Box Office
Nikki Burch, Jason Evans, Beatriz Gonzalez, Jimmy Herrera, Chelsea Horton, Anthony Martinez, Erin Urick
SPECIAL THANKS TO
Dolores Cavatore & John Tobola
Patricia & Sig Cornelius
Paul Hope Joemaine & Elizabeth Spears Priscilla Dickson Photography Sterling
TUTS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Franklin D.R. Jones Jr., Chairman of the Board Steven L. Burkett June Deadrick
Patrice Baumann McKinney
Roxann Neumann
Meredith Philipp-Tcholakian
Amy Pierce Rob Scheinerman Quentin L. Smith Randy Stilley
John Tobola Steve Trauber
TUTS BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Margaret Alkek Williams
Robert Jay Binstock
Thom Brandt
Paul Cannings, Jr. Zane Carson Carruth
Sigmund L. Cornelius
Connie Dalton
Doug Dawson
Marcela Donadio
Dr. Connie Faro Dallas Hall
Jim Hickey
LuAnn Katz Jay Landa
Doug Lionberger
Herb Listen
Penny Loyd Jim Marshall
Tim McGarity
Scott McReaken
Philip A. Morabito
Daryl Morey
Shelly Mulanax
Anne Neeson
Bret Oliver Robert D. Perkins Elaine Pickle
Rani Puranik Julie Pradel Alan Ratliff Brandon Sear James Shaffer Adrian D. Shelley Heather Sirdashney Jeff Smith
Kristina H. Somerville
David Taylor
Trent D. Tellepsen Tom Tomlinson Larry Whaley
ADVISORY BOARD
Dr. Margaret (Meg) Basu
Nancy Brownlee
Lainey Balagia Croucher
Stephanie Holcombe
Jenee Jongbloed Bobbora Paige May Stephen Morel David Peck
Gavin Smith Jay Tribble Donna Vallone Bruce Vincent
The Observatory is published quarterly by Theatre Under The Stars, 800 Bagby Street, Suite 200, Houston TX 77002.
THE OBSERVATORY FALL 2022 29
Stargazers Salon, Ain’t Misbehavin’