Centerstage Issue 3

Centerstage Published by The Center for the Performing Arts at The Woodlands

Celebrate

the Arts

September - October 2013

Volume 14, Issue 3

A Sizzling Concert featuring the Houston Symphony in September September 5 • 8 p.m The Houston Symphony heats up the stage at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Sept.

5 at 8 p.m. for Música Clásica Latina. This classical concert features famed American composers George Gershwin and Leonard Bernstein as well as famed Latin composers Manuel de Falla, Ástor Piazzollia, Fabio Mechetti and Alberto Ginastera. Tickets are $15 for orchestra seating. Mezzanine and lawn seating are free courtesy of The Wortham Foundation. Tickets are not required for free seating. Gates open at 7 p.m.

The fiesta gets started with Gershwin’s “Cuban Overture” and Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances from “West Side Story.” Other pieces include Falla’s “Noches en los jardines de España (“Nights in the Gardens of Spain”), Piazzollia and Mechetti’s “Two Tangos” and Ginastera’s Danzas del Ballet “Estancia.”

Brazilian-born Marcelo Lehninger, the evening’s conductor, is recognized as one of the most gifted conductors of his generation. Appointed Music Director of the New West Symphony Orchestra in Los Angeles, his growing reputation as a dynamic conductor inspires musicians and audiences of all ages worldwide. Lehninger studied violin and piano before he started his conducting career.

He holds a master’s degree from the Conductor Institute at New York’s Bard College. Lehninger made his Houston Symphony debut in 2011. He makes his Pavilion debut at this concert.

Gabriela Martinez, a Venezuelan pianist, joins the symphony at tonight’s concert. She has already amassed an impressive list of recital, concerto and chamber music performance credits since making her orchestral debut at age 7. She earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree in music from The Juilliard School.

Martinez has appeared as soloist with orchestras in Chicago, New Jersey, Fort Worth, San Francisco, Philadelphia and many in Europe.

Sip, swirl and swallow at a free wine tasting (while supplies last) provided by Hubbell & Hudson starting at 7 p.m. The wine tasting takes place in the pit section of the seating area and features Latin wines. Wear your dancing shoes for salsa dancing in pit section of the seating area with Strictly Street Salsa. Also featured in the North Plaza are the sounds of The Woodlands High School Orchestra.

Other pre-concert activities include Fidelity Investments, Century 21 Realty Partners, Renewal by Anderson, The Pavilion Partners, Woodforest National Bank, A Walk to End Alzheimer’s and Audi of America, official automobile of The Pavilion. Guests can registerto-win Tommy Bahama’s “Best Seats in the House,” which includes dinner for four at the next performing arts event.

At all symphonies, guests are welcome to have a picnic in their seat or on the hill. Keep in mind that beverages cannot be brought into The Pavilion. Sitting on the hill? Lawn chairs also are provided free for this event!

October 11 • 7:30 p.m.

Join us for an evening of spooky sounds and creepy creatures for goblins and ghouls of all ages at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion’s Hocus Pocus Pops featuring the Houston Symphony Oct. 11 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for orchestra seating. Mezzanine and lawn seating are free courtesy of H-E-B. Tickets are not required for free seating. Gates open at 6 p.m.

Conductor Robert Franz mesmerizes the audience into a nightmarish performance of horrifying horns, bewitching bassoons and chilling cellos. The petrifying program includes “The Poltergeist Polka,” “The Chill of the Orchestra,” “Symphony Fantastique,” Hexenritt (Witches Ride) from “Hansel and Gretel,” “The Addams Family” Concert Overture, Marc Tango from “Addams Family Values,” Theme from “Ghostbusters” and more.

Everyone is gravely encouraged to dress up in their favorite Halloween costume for a chance to walk on stage during the concert. The first 100 boys and “ghouls” to check in at Hocus Pocus Central in the North Plaza, fully costumed, get the chance to march in the Goblin Parade.

Haunting the plazas before dusk are pre-concert activities starting when the ghoulish gates open at 6 p.m. Brave boys and daring girls can participate in enchanted events to win “spooktacular” prizes at the BOOths offered by H-E-B, The Pavilion Partners, Fidelity Investments, Century 21 Realty Partners, Renewal by Anderson, Woodforest National Bank, “Houston Family Magazine” and Audi of America, official automobile of The Pavilion.

Conquer your fears and greet “fangtastic” figures roaming around The Pavilion, such as

Dracula and Frankenstein. Dwell into the House of Blues Hospitality Tent between 6-7:15 p.m. at Radio Disney’s Graveyard Smash Dance Party featuring the Radio Disney Boo Crew for great chills, thrills, tricks and treats. If you dare, hop onto the Great Pumpkin Express and carve out some great (or gruesome) memories at The Pavilion’s haunted grounds.

Train rides begin at 5:30 p.m. in The Pavilion’s Gold Lot. For “monsterous” prizes, register to win a gift basket provided by H-E-B and The Pavilion by bringing any H-E-B receipt from Oct. 1-11, 2013, to Hocus Pocus Pops. Receipts must be brought to Hocus Pocus Central in the North Plaza prior to the performance (between 6 and 7:15 p.m.) on Oct. 11. The drawing takes place on the Main Stage before the concert.

For those gifted with the art of storytelling, tell us your spookiest tale for The Pavilion’s 3rd Annual “Spooktacular” Essay Contest. All students in kindergarten through 12th grade are welcome to participate. One winner chosen from each grade category receives $50 in gift cards, four VIP tickets to the Houston Symphony’s Hocus Pocus Pops and has their essay printed in the program for the event. Winners are notified Oct. 4. One Grand Prize winner will be chosen at random from Photo by Ted Washington the six finalists and announced at Hocus Pocus Pops. The grand prize winner receives a “terrorific” prize and has their essay printed in The Courier and The Villager newspapers. Each participant in the contest is entered into a drawing for a variety of prizes. The contest begins Sept. 3 and ends Sept. 23.

The Hocus Pocus Pops “Spooktacular” Essay Contest is sponsored by The Courier, The Villager and Simply Tutoring.

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion’s 2013 Performing Arts Season Presented by The Woodlands Development Company and sponsored by Audi of America, official automobile of The Pavilion, The Pavilion Partners, The Wortham Foundation, and United Airlines, official airline of The Pavilion. The North Plaza is sponsored by Fidelity Investments, Century 21 Realty Partners and Renewal by Andersen.

Sponsor Spotlight In each issue of CenterStage, we turn the spotlight onto one of our sponsors, a gesture of thanks for their invaluable contributions to the many things we work hard to accomplish.

Part of The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion’s mission is to provide educational programs about the performing arts. Funding for these programs comes from many fundraising channels, but one many people may not know about is the Guitar Auction program.

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion lost its founder and greatest fan July 26, with the passing of George P. Mitchell. Mitchell accomplished much of what he envisioned in his lifetime, but he is remembered mostly for his generosity and kind heart.

The Pavilion and Mitchell Family hosted a memorial tribute Aug. 8, celebrating his remarkable life. It was a wonderful event, featuring the Texas A&M University Singing Cadets and the Houston Symphony. Sons Todd and Grant Mitchell honored their father by sharing family pictures and personal stories with those in attendance. Other speakers shared Mitchell’s achievements in the fields of science, energy, the environment and the arts. One of the highlights was a video message sent from Professor Stephen Hawking. In his message Professor Hawking spoke about his personal friendship with Mitchell. He stated that Mitchell is someone who has really changed the world.

Here at The Pavilion, we will truly miss Mitchell’s presence, interest and influence. Thanks to the Mitchells’ generous gift to the Houston Symphony’s endowment fund, The Pavilion became the official Summer Home of the Houston Symphony with a series of performances each season. More than 200 concerts by the Houston Symphony have been performed on The Pavilion’s stage.

His gifts were generous, but he also gave the gift of his time and interest in our programs. He especially loved stopping by our Children’s Festival and Musical Scores events to see children, who otherwise may have never been exposed to the arts, enjoy the experience here. His values were strong and timeless.

He was a man who led with his heart and a brand of magic that combined tenacity with humility and generosity. While we may never meet a greater visionary in our lifetime, Mitchell has left his big dreams for us to strive to match.

Jerry MacDonald President and CEO

Various artists that perform at The Pavilion are asked to sign a guitar. The next time the performer returns to The Pavilion’s stage, the autographed guitar is auctioned in the Woodforest Bank Club to raise money for The Pavilion’s educational outreach programs. The program began in 2010 and has raised more than $75,000.

Carla Boring, resident of The Woodlands, won the auction for the John Mayer guitar in early June. She heard about the auction on Facebook and wanted to contribute to the educational outreach fund by purchasing this item from her favorite artist.

“My kids are musicians, so I know how important these music programs are to kids,” said Boring. “The guitar auction program is such a great program and it’s such a special moment for the person who wins the auction.”

Steve and Luann Bozeman

The guitars usually raise between $5,000-$15,000 each, with Jimmy Buffett and Nickelback having raised the most.

Artists like Journey, Crosby, Stills and Nash, Kings of Leon and Dave Matthews are a few of the artists that have participated in the program. In particular, Dave Matthews’ guitars often spur the interest of fans because of their uniqueness.

Guests with Disabilities For information on guests with wheelchairs, hearing or visual impairments, call 281-364-3010.

Find us on...

#pavilion2013

Auctions are held in the Woodforest Bank Club and are open to Season Ticket Holders and their guests. For more information on becoming a Pavilion Season Ticket Holder, contact JD Villasenor at jvillasenor@woodlandscenter.org.

Past Partners Scholarship Recipient Hosts Chamberfest at The Pavilion Six students from The Woodlands joined together to form The Woodlands Chamberfest at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in June. Led by Julliard alumni Marie Daniels and Nate Helgeson, these students studied together four hours daily in a chamber music festival that culminated with a performance on The Pavilion’s stage.

Chamberfest not only encourages musical growth, but personal growth as well. Each day, the students have a 30 minute “Lunch and Learn” session on topics such as public speaking, improvisation, leadership and communication in chamber music. Since chamber music involves interpersonal organization and collaboration, students have the opportunity to lead each other.

This is not the first year that Daniels has led such a festival. Last year, Daniels held the festival in her parents’ home. Since Daniels was a recipient of a Pavilion Partners Fine Arts Scholarship, she contacted The Pavilion about hosting the festival.

“The opportunity was the perfect fit for The Pavilion’s mission of providing training and performance opportunities for young artists,” said Jerry MacDonald, president and CEO of The Pavilion.

Daniels began playing the viola while a student at Collins Intermediate School in The Woodlands, but developed a love for helping other students in high school. She returned to Collins to teach younger students while in college and received a rousing response from students and parents.

“There used to be an orchestra camp when I was in intermediate school, but it went away,” said Daniels. “That’s part of what inspired me to create this festival, so orchestra students could study outside of the classroom.”

What is unique about Chamberfest is in its name. The main focus of the festival is chamber music which, unlike symphonic music, does not require a conductor. Usually consisting of two to 10 musicians, the music was created for small groups in palace chambers of the 18th century.

in iTunes app store

The next guitars to be auctioned are signed by Heart and Maroon 5 at their respective concerts.

Off Stage

For information about season tickets, joining The Pavilion Partners or participating in our educational outreach programs, call 281-364-3010.

Visit www.woodlandscenter.org for details.

To book your next meeting or event, call 281-363-0900.

David and Carla Boring

“What I like about the program is that it touches a base of people we don’t typically reach,” said Christine Scully, director of development for The Pavilion. “For example, the Dave Matthews guitar went to a woman from Wisconsin. It’s great because we were able to communicate our mission to someone outside our normal audience. It also broadens our fundraising program.”

Contact Information

Woodforest Bank Club and House of Blues Hospitality Tent

“There are very few artists that actually put artwork on the guitars,” said Scully. “The last two years Dave Matthews has taken the time to make some interesting faces on his guitars. So his guitars are not just an autograph, but a piece of art.” Artists are becoming more careful about what they autograph, but The Pavilion has been fortunate that many of the contemporary artists performing at the venue participate in this fundraiser.

While some growth is hoped for, Daniels explains that too much growth could actually take away from the festival’s effectiveness.

“The whole idea of Chamberfest is to really get to know the students individually. If we get too big, that would take away from this. We would love to have representatives from both junior high and high school, but it all depends on the age of the applicants and types of instruments that they play,” said Daniels.

ShowTime

ShowTime is a list of events scheduled for The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, including start times and ticket prices.

Information is subject to change. Please visit www.woodlandscenter.org for the latest event information.

Steely Dan

Backstreet Boys

Depeche Mode

Imagine Dragons.

Fresh Beat Band

Photo by Jeff Fitlow

Photo by Danny Clinch

Miranda Lambert & Dierks Bentley

Robert Franz

fun.

Lionel Ritchie

Aug. 24

Oddball Comedy Festival • 6:30 p.m. with Dave Chappelle, Flight of the Conchords, Al Madrigal, Brody Steven, Demetri Martin, Hannibal Buress, Jim Jefferies, John Mulaney, Kristen Schaal and more $95 Res. Pit / $95, $79.50, $59.50 & $39.50 Reserved / $35 Lawn

Sept. 18 Depeche Mode • 7:30 p.m.

$99.50 Res. Pit / $99.50 & $59.50 Reserved / $35.50 Lawn

Aug. 29

Rockstar Energy Drink Uproar Festival • 6:30 p.m. with Alice In Chains, Jane’s Addiction, Coheed and Cambria & Circa Survive $89.50 GA Pit / $55.25, $39.25 & $29.25 Reserved / $25.25 Lawn

Sept. 25 Fall Out Boy • 7 p.m.

with Panic! at the Disco

$45 GA Pit / $45 & $39.50 Reserved

Aug. 30 Steely Dan • 7:30 p.m.

$95 Res. Pit / $95, $65 & $35 Reserved Aug. 31 Backstreet Boys • 7:30 p.m.

with DJ Pauly D

$89.50 GA Pit / $89.50, $69.50, $49.50 & $39.50 Reserved Sept. 5

Música Clásica Latina • 8 p.m. with the Houston Symphony Marcello Lehninger, conductor $15 orchestra seating / FREE mezzanine and lawn seating courtesy of The Wortham Foundation

Sept. 17 Mumford & Sons • 7 p.m.

Sold Out

Sept. 19 Honda Civic Tour Maroon 5 & Kelly Clarkson • 7 p.m.

Sold Out

Sept. 26 Imagine Dragons • 7:30 p.m.

$42.50 GA Pit / $42.50, $39.50 & $29.50 Reserved / $20 Lawn Sept. 28 Miranda Lambert & Dierks Bentley • 7:30 p.m.

with Charlie Worsham and Jukebox Mafia

$52.75 GA Pit / $52.75 Reserved / $29.75 Lawn

Oct. 18 Avenged Sevefold Hail to the King Tour • 7 p.m.

with Deftones & Ghost B.C.

$55 GA Pit / $55, $45 & $35 Reserved / $25 Lawn Oct. 20 John Fogerty • 8 p.m.

$85 Res. Pit / $85, $65, $50 & $35 Reserved Oct. 27 Paramore • 7:30 p.m.

with Metric & hellogoodbye

$52.50 GA Pit / $52.50, $49.50, $39.50 & $29.50 Reserved Nov. 9 18th Annual Children’s Festival • 10 a.m.

presented by Devon Energy

$8 in advance / $10 at door Nov. 10 18th Annual Children’s Festival • 12 p.m.

presented by Devon Energy

$8 in advance / $10 at door

Oct. 6 fun. • 8 p.m.

$39.50 GA Pit / $39.50 Reserved Oct. 11

John Fogerty

Hocus Pocus Pops • 7:30 p.m. with the Houston Symphony Robert Franz, conductor $15 orchestra seating / FREE mezzanine and lawn seating courtesy of H-E-B

Oct. 12 Lionel Richie • 7:30 p.m.

$125 Reserved Pit / $125, $89.50, $59.50, $49.50, $39.50 Reserved

Nov. 14 Fresh Beat Band • 7 p.m.

$39.50 Res. Pit / $39.50 & $29.50 Reserved Dec. 12 Holly Jolly Symphony Spectacular • 7:30 p.m.

with the Houston Symphony

Robert Franz, conductor

$15 orchestra seating / FREE mezzanine and lawn seating

courtesy of Woodforest National Bank, KMPG, LLP. and Talisman USA

Ticket Information Prices do not include service charge. Tickets are available at all outlets, including Fiesta, select H-E-B and Walmart locations and Media Magic, by calling 800-745-3000, or online at www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets also can be purchased at The Pavilion Box Office Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and on event days through intermission. The Box Office is located at the north entrance to The Pavilion at 2005 Lake Robbins Drive in The Woodlands. For more information, call 281-3633300 or visit www.woodlandscenter.org. Prepaid, preferred parking is available in the on-site Town Center Garage located along Six Pines Drive. Parking is $5 per vehicle for most performing arts events and $15 per vehicle for most contemporary events.

Tickets for on-site parking can be purchased in advance at all locations and The Pavilion Box Office. Some service charges may apply. Advance purchase is not required, but guarantees a space the day of the show.

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Pays Tribute to the Founder of The Woodlands George P. Mitchell passed away July 26, 2013, at the age of 94. In 1974, he created The Woodlands, a 28,000-acre master-planned community. He was a pioneer and visionary.

Mitchell along with his wife, Cynthia Woods Mitchell, had a passion for the arts. Cynthia’s commitment that the arts should be accessible to all helped create a first-class outdoor venue for popular and classical music, opera, dance, and the performing arts. Her dream of this kind of venue became a reality when The Pavilion opened with a starstudded gala weekend in April 1990. The Houston Symphony performed April 27, Frank Sinatra April 28 and Alabama with Clint Black on April 29.

In 1992, thanks to a generous gift from the Mitchells to the Houston Symphony’s endowment fund, The Pavilion became the official Summer Home of the Houston Symphony.

As a result, The Pavilion presents a series of performances featuring the symphony every season. Due to Mitchell’s support the venue has emerged as one of the premier amphitheaters int the world, hosting internationally acclaimed performing arts organizations including Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera as well as major concert tours.

Mitchell was very involved with The Pavilion. He loved to visit during the annual Children’s Festival and Musical Scores events. He was instrumental in the rebuilding efforts of the venue after Hurricane Ike damaged the roof in 2008. Mitchell’s donation of $1 million helped open the venue back up bigger and better than ever.

A memorial tribute service in Mitchell’s honor was held August 8 at The Pavilion. The Houston Symphony and the Texas A&M Singing Cadets performed and many community members and family members spoke at the service.

Mitchell leaves a lasting legacy for his contributions to science, energy and the environment, as well as the arts. He was married to his wife Cynthia for more than 65 years and raised 10 children. He has 23 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

New Food Options at Pavilion Events With the ever-growing health and cost-conscience society, The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion along with ARAMARK Sports & Entertainment and Live Nation, is offering healthier menu items as well as giving concertgoers the option to bring in food at contemporary events.

Now available are locally grown produce on top of hamburgers and meat products from suppliers that have been certified under animal welfare programs recognized by The Humane Society of the United States. The produce includes lettuce, tomatoes and onions. Single and double cheeseburgers, Italian sausage, hot dogs, footlong hot dogs and chicken tenders are the items offered as humanely raised and harvested meats served with locally grown produce.

In addition, concertgoers have the option of a vegetarian meal. Currently, guests can purchase veggie burgers. Live Nation is working with Chef Hugh Acheson of “Top Chef” fame, who is developing additional meatless options.

For the first time ever, guests are allowed to bring in food at the contemporary events at The Pavilion. Each guest is permitted to bring in a one gallon plastic bag of food for personal consumption. At the venue’s performing arts events, guests also can bring in food, but are not limited to a one gallon plastic bag. No beverages can be brought into the venue at any time.

“For the cost-conscience guest, to be able to bring in food at the contemporary events will certainly help their wallets,” said Jerry MacDonald, president and CEO of The Pavilion. “We have been offering this at our performing arts events for many years. It’s great that we can offer the same to our guests at contemporary events.”

Another great addition to the venue this year is food trucks at selected shows. You can grab some delicious desserts from Porch Swing Desserts and Gigi Cupcakes or a pizza at Papa John’s or a famous chicken sandwich at Chick-fil-A trucks.

And beat the heat with $5 draft beer all summer long at the concessions stands.

Join the Fun and Volunteer at the 18th Annual Children’s Festival At the annual Children’s Festival, The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion is transformed into a giant playground filled with live music, a train ride, kite flying, hat-making, facepainting and much more. Sound like fun? Well, consider volunteering at the Festival through your company or community service organization.

The Pavilion relies on many volunteers to make its events successful. The annual Children’s Festival is one of The Pavilion’s staple events and is essential in ensuring The Pavilion’s mission of providing educational programs to the community is met. It takes approximately 450 volunteers to produce the event.

Community service organizations can include groups from Junior League, Junior Forum, high school clubs, church groups, Girl and Boy Scouts just to name a few. In the past, The Woodlands College Park High School Interact, Arts Society and DECA clubs, The Woodlands High School Spanish Club, Klein High School National Honor Society, Junior League of North Harris and Montgomery Counties, Cypress-Woodlands Junior Forum, The Woodlands Christian Academy, and many more have volunteered at the Festival.

Children’s Festival is a fourday event with school days Thursday and Friday, Nov. 7 and 8, and weekend days Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 9 and 10. It is non-stop fun and excitement around every corner. There are a variety of jobs and one to suit each volunteer.

On school days, volunteer duties include escorting nearly 3,000 students and teachers each day from their buses to their seats and then back to their buses after the event. All volunteers are provided breakfast and lunch.

On the weekend, volunteers help in different areas of the festival including face-painting and hat-making booths, arts and crafts, parachute races, kite flying on the hill and more. On the weekend, volunteers are treated to the volunteer hospitality area for a light snack and cold drink.

“Counting Every Minute” until the 2014 Prom Night Gala

by Stanica Matijevich It’s time to break out the tulle and cummerbunds for another Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion “Hot Blooded” gala Feb. 8. The Pavilion is ecstatic to announce the theme this year is “Feels Like the First Time” Prom Night with musical guest Foreigner. The event takes place at The Edge on Rayford Road.

Guests are encouraged to dress from their favorite prom era. Whether it’s “Fast Times at Ridgemont High,” “Pretty in Pink” or “Grease,” break out the hair gel and rollers, and show us your best prom attire.

The last gala was a huge success and many may wonder how The Pavilion is going to top it. With the help of a powerhouse party planning committee, including sisters-in-law Gayelene McIngvale and Linda Mclngvale, owners of A Memorable Event, this upcoming gala causes “Double Vision.” Going all out with the theme, from exquisite food and wine to the venue, the committee ensures it is going to be a night to remember.

“What’s so great about each gala is the overall energy and enthusiasm that not only goes into the planning, but the actual event,” said Christine Scully, development director for The Pavilion. “With so many new and exciting changes and additions, the 2014 gala is going to be able to give so much back to The Pavilion. At the end of the day that’s what the gala is all about.”

The Pavilion only hosts a fundraising gala once every three years which makes this upcoming gala unique. Also for the first time The Pavilion is honoring one couple, George and Dianne Lindahl III. George and Dianne will be honored as the “King and Queen” of the prom. George is a former board member having served on the board for six years and has given to The Pavilion in numerous ways. He was the first to purchase a $100,000 “Juke Box Hero” table.

Money raised from the 2014 gala benefits The Pavilion performing arts events, educational outreach programs and The Pavilion Partners Fine Arts Scholarship Fund. You know its “Urgent” for you to be there, so don’t miss out! Tables of 10 are priced from $5,000 at the “Starrider” table to $100,000 for a “Juke Box Hero” table.

Individual tickets are $500. Other sponsorships are available.

Come join the fun and help support your community at Children’s Festival. If your company or group is interested in volunteering at the Festival, please contact Leslie Williams at lwilliams@woodlandscenter.org or 281-210-1125.

Congratulations to Mark E. Ellis and David D. Dunlap, members of The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion’s Board of Directors, on their recent awards.

Ellis was awarded the Exploration & Production Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year for the 2013 Gulf Coast Area. Dunlap was awarded the Transformational CEO Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year for the 2013 Gulf Coast Area.

Don’t miss the chance to relive one of your favorite high school memories, or to get it right the second time. Grab your sweetheart and dancing shoes because opportunities like this “Can’t Wait!”

Encore The Center for the Performing Arts at The Woodlands would like to thank the following contributors for their financial support of our 2013 Performing Arts Season and Educational Outreach Programs as of August 5 printing deadline. $100,000 - $249,999 Live Nation George P. Mitchell The Pavilion Partners $50,000 - $74,999 The Woodlands Development Company The Wortham Foundation $25,000 - $49,999 Anadarko Petroleum Corporation Audi of America Woodforest National Bank $15,000 - $24,999 ARAMARK Sports & Entertainment H-E-B PepsiCo TalismanUSA $10,000 - $14,999 BBVA Compass Chevron Phillips Chemical Company Insperity KPMG, LLP $5,000 - $9,999 Aon Hewitt Katherine & John Beaird Black Forest Ventures Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts Fidelity Investments FMC Technologies Entergy

$5,000 - $9,999 cont.

Albert and Ethel Herzstein Foundation Linn Energy John P. McGovern Foundation Union Pacific Foundation Woodlands Waterway Art Festival $2,000 - $4,999 Century 21 Realty Partners EMI Sheryl & Fred Greene Renewal by Andersen $1,000 - $1,999 Valerie & Robert Beardsley Barb & Stephen Crain Exxon Volunteers Carol & Phil Garner Candi & Gerald Glenn Sheryl & Fred Greene Alison& Rich Henderson Tricia & Jerry MacDonald Julie & Jerry Mayrant Whitney & Derek McCoy Suzanne & Robert Potter Vicki & Michael Richmond Maryann T. & Timothy Seaman Susie & Jeff Shipley $500 - $999 Annette & Ken Hallock Amy & Jonathan Homeyer Insperity Volunteers The John Cooper School

$500 - $999 cont.

Dr. Lisa & Dr. Paul Kenworthy Judy & Charles Lano JoAnne & Randy Lowry Brenda & John Mizell Mary Matteson & Norman Parrish Amy & George Sowers Simply Tutoring Melissa & Jeff Young $250 - $499 Debra & Michael Caliel Suzanne & Ed Ellis Linda & Ken Feld Susan & Daniel Fordyce Linda & Steve Hester Kelly & Paul Messenger Nicole & Will Murphy Annice & John Nanninga Arlene & Sol Sachs In-Kind ARAMARK Sports & Entertainment Blackhorse Houston Community Newspapers & The Courier & The Villager Kim Son Restaurant Outback Steakhouse Main Event EMS Silver Eagle Distributors Tommy Bahama The Woodlands Waterway Marriott & Hotel Woodlands Wine Company United Airlines

2013 The Pavilion Partners Fine Arts Scholarship Donors: $1,000 Colleen & Robert Ayers Phil Barber Lewis Bock Corporate Incentives Leslie & Bryon Ellis Candi & Gerald Glenn Bonnie & Robert Graham Annette & Ken Hallock Kelly & Brady Hull Alice & Patrick Hynes Ed Jones Gayelene & Ralph McIngvale Janet Wong & Ron Mullins Suzanne & Robert Potter Dr. Judith Ragsdale Maryann T. Seaman & Tim Seaman Leigh & Larry Shaffer R.E. Strong

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion acknowledges the financial support of The Woodlands Township that is generated by the Event Admissions Tax for its performing arts and educational programs.

SUPPORTING C ST

The Center for the Performing Arts at The Woodlands Home of The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion 2005 Lake Robbins Drive • The Woodlands, TX 77380 Phone: 281-364-3010 • Fax: 281-364-3011 www.woodlandscenter.org • info@woodlandscenter.org Officers

Jeffrey H. Shipley – Chairman of the Board Jerry MacDonald – President and CEO Joseph P. Ash – Vice Chairman

Mark E. Ellis – Secretary Jeff Young – Vice President Lori Figaro – Treasurer

President's Message

Hello Fellow Pavilion Partners,

Board of Directors

Jeff Beard Gary Becker Eric Beylier David D. Dunlap Carol P. Garner Jeffrey R. Harder Jason K. Harris Peter R. Huntsman

Paul R. Kenworthy, M.D. Daniel E. Kolkhorst Estelle P. McLaughlin C. Grant Mitchell Steve A. Morrow Steven W. Nance John Robichau Julie Rock

Maryann T. Seaman Larry Shaffer Nick Vanderpool IV Raymond I. Wilcox Marsha K. Williams Janet S. Wong Hank Wood

It is hard to believe summer is almost over. We have had a great season so far and more great events to come. Hopefully you have been able to volunteer at some of the events.

Partners recently had one of its biggest events, the PreConcert Dinner & Fundraiser Aug. 16 prior to the Keith Urban concert. Money raised from the event benefited The Pavilion’s performing arts events and educational outreach programs.

A fun night was had by all.

Director in memoriam Cynthia Woods Mitchell (1922 - 2009)

STAFF Jerry MacDonald – President & CEO Jeff Young – Vice President of Operations Shannon Wilson – Director of Marketing & Education JD Villaseñor – Director of Premium Seat Sales Courtney Galle – Marketing & PR Manager David Schlauch – Operations Manager Whitney Hough – Social Media Marketing Coordinator Kelly Rich – Event Manager Stanica Matijevich - Marketing Assistant Josie Moore – Box Office Manager Lori Figaro – CFO Mike Karczewski – Assistant Box Office Manager Paula Smith – Senior Accountant Matt Meyer – Assistant Operations Manager Heather Reding – Human Resources Manager Carla DeHart – VIP & Event Coordinator Jenny Lewis – Accountant Joey Rincon – Overnight Security Supervisor Stephanie Stone – Accounting Assistant Mike Bevel – Operations Christine Scully – Director of Development Paula Jauregui – Maintenance Leslie Williams – Volunteer & Special Events Coordinator Victor Maldonado – Maintenance Larry Stewart – Overnight Security

Susana Salazar – Overnight Security Javier Ramirez – Maintenance

Centerstage Shannon Wilson – Editor-in-Chief Whitney Hough – Contributing Writer Courtney Galle – Managing Editor Don Crouch, imagineer

www.woodlandscenter.org

2013 Members of The Pavilion Partners $1,000-$1,999 Valerie & Robert Beardsley Barb & Stephen Crain Carol & Phil Garner Candi & Gerald Glenn Alison & Rich Henderson Jamie & Brian Kraft Tricia & Jerry MacDonald Julie & Jerry Mayrant Whitney & Derek McCoy Arla & Gerald Neuberger Sherri & Mike Nicol Suzanne & Robert Potter Vicki & Michael Richmond Maryann T. & Timothy Seaman Susie & Jeff Shipley $500-$999 Annette & Ken Hallock Amy & Jonathan Homeyer Dr. Lisa & Dr. Paul Kenworthy Judy & Charles Lano JoAnne & Randy Lowry Brenda & John Mizell Mary Matteson & Norman Parrish Amy & George Sowers Melissa & Jeff Young $250-$499 Debra & Michael Caliel Suzanne & Ed Ellis Linda & Ken Feld Susan & Daniel Fordyce Linda & Steve Hester Kelly & Paul Messenger Nicole & Will Murphy John Nanninga Arlene & Sol Sachs Karin & Bill Townsend $50-$100 Pamela Adams Chardelle & George Adelson Rodney Anderson Bob Arend Lisa Arvidson Suzie Baker Melissa Barksdale Judith Bartok Nancy & Mike Becker Bunny Benditz Sandra Benke Terry & Bruce Bernhoft Nancy Bickle Jody Black Cheryl Blair Lisa & Tom Blanchard Joy & James Borneman Sharon & Tom Bowen Brenda Eames & Allan Braaten Stephanie Brassovan Chassity Braud Sharon & Lonnie Brauner Michelle Bridges Simone Chiang Brustein Carol & Tom Buffa Beth Butler Debbie & Skip Cain Jan Cain

$50-$100 cont.

Julie & Carlos Camacho Sylvia Caracio Annabelle & Chris Carrillo Joy Casteel Barbara & Regan Chambers Patsy & Namen Chambliss Christine & Michael Collins Sean Kenneth Connelly Candis Cooper Dixie Cope Gaye & Bill Craig Elizabeth Crawley Lisa & Jeff Crum Andria & Gabriel Cuellar Elsie Dillow Kathryn Donohue Ruth Dowden Debra & Matt Dozier Christina Dunne Kris Eaton Stacey & Ted Eicks Linda & Rob Eissler Sarah Epley Keith & Grady Ferry Lori & Sean Figaro Jane Fisher Alice & Brad Fludgate Beth & Greg Folks Sylvia Forbes Phyllis Frost Louis Gomez Angela & Mark Gott Patricia Baron & Robert Gower Lillian & Jess Hargis Danielle Heil Janene Hemmen Barbara Hodges Elizabeth Hollis Jeannie Hopper Lyn & Greg Hullilnger Marlies Iida Maria Ivers Mary & Keith Jaeger Theresa Jenson Elizabeth Johnson Judith & Dickie Jones DaLinda Judy Letty Kelley Cindy Kirk Lisa Koetting Elizabeth & Michael Krantz Conchita & Eric Ladwig Mike Larson Judy Latour Karen Leiker Jennifer Lewis Linda & Irv Lichtman Karen & Jim Listak Jacqueline Little Nancy & Terry Mahan Sydney Mark Charles Marling Norma Mauldin Christine & Bo McBee Nancy & Brian McCulloch Lynn McDonald Stacey & John McKinley Estelle & Mark McLaughlin

$50-$100 cont.

Pat & Martin Mitchell Nazeema Karim & Peter Molberg Phyllis Molnar Ann Moore Shelli Moran Gloria Moser Rachel Mulkey Lauren Munn Myron Murphy Patty Murphy Misty Napp Betty Nelson Linda & John Newbold Diane Nielsen Cindy Notarainni Jadzia & Richard Olson Mary Jo O’Neal Shelly & Mike O’Neil Kathryn Painter Patrick Paris Shannon & Thomas Paylor Callie Piper Stevie Platt Karen & Lance Portman Douglas Pulgini Patricia Harrison & Frank Radik Tom Rafferty Liz Regan Jodi Rehwinkel Joyce & Ken Reynolds Sally & Kyle Richards Rhonda Richardson Zach Richmond Nancy Roberson Dr. Alysia & John Robichau Chip Rocha Lori Rubel Tracy & Jon Sanderson Nancy & Steve Sandstrum Karen & Michael Schexnayder Sharon Schilling Christine & Mark Scully Ann & Dane Sever Chris Steinke Sheryl Stoeckle Vicki Huebler & Debbie Stofcheck Candace Strang Stephanie & Mark Teed Fred Thomas Freda & Ben Thomas Kandance Thornton Maria Valenzuela Paula & Benny Van Osdell Ray Viada Tula Walls Connie Wagner Barbara & Frederick Washburn Shelli Weidlein Jenny & Teddy White Karen Williams Leslie Williams David Wilson Gene Wolfson Carolyn Wong JoAnne & Gary Wood Marla Wulf

by Stanica Matijevich

There are other functions and socials for Partners to participate in. We have a great Social committee headed by Sarah Epley. She and her committee plan monthly socials for Partners members to come together and get to know one another during a fun activity.

We also are going to participate in this year’s Light the Night Walk. As you may know The Pavilion lost a dear friend and colleague, Cindy DuBois, to cancer earlier this summer. She was a great wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend. It seems we all know someone who has cancer. As Partners members, we want to show support for our friends and families by helping to try and beat this horrible disease.

I hope you are able to volunteer at some of the upcoming events and attend some of the social events.

See you out there!

Recently a brick dedication reception was held at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.

Started back in 1995, the Donor Brick Program is a fundraiser that helps The Pavilion fulfill its mission “to serve as a resource for enhancing education about the performing and visual arts for young people.”

Our Mission Founded in 1990, The Center for the Performing Arts at The Woodlands is a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization that provides diverse, high-quality performing arts events for the entertainment and enrichment of a broad regional audience. Through numerous educational and community outreach programs, The Center is a catalyst for attracting new audiences to the performing arts and building strong ties between the arts and educational institutions.

Supporters of the Performing Arts Honored at The Pavilion

Three people were honored at the ceremony including Pavilion Partners President John Robichau, Cindy Notarrani and Nancy Battle, in honor of Tom Battle. With friends and family of the honorees in attendance, the bricks were cemented into the ground.

John Robichau The Pavilion Partners President For more information about Partners, please visit www.woodlandscenter.org/partners.

Get Out and Socialize with The Pavilion Partners

by Sarah Epley

“What’s so great about the Donor Brick Program is it allows members of the community to give back while benefiting a great cause,” said Christine Scully, director of development for The Pavilion. “It gives them the chance to honor their loved ones through a memorial or personal gift.”

Bricks are located at the main entrance of The Pavilion outside the North Gates. The Pavilion’s Donor Brick Program is a great way to leave your legacy for all to see.

Currently, donation levels range from $100-$200. There are various options with each level.

For more information on The Pavilion’s Donor Brick Program, visit www.woodlandscenter. org/brickprogram.html or contact Leslie Williams at lwilliams@woodlandscenter.org or 281-210-1125.

All volunteer and no play? Not as a Pavilion Partner! Once a month, Partners members have an opportunity to meet outside The Pavilion for a little fun.

About four years ago, quite a few of our members did not have the opportunity to get to know other Partners while volunteering. As a result the social committee was formed.

The committee’s main focus is to plan events in The Woodlands where Partners members have time to relax and enjoy meeting other members. The social committee meets every month to brainstorm and plan for our upcoming events.

Our past social events have included a brewery tour at Southern Star Brewery, painting at Painting with a Twist, open mic night at Dosey Doe, a concert in the park at Northshore Park, greek night at The Olive Oil, wine tasting at Woodlands Wine Company, a night of theatre at Lone Star College, a ghost tour in Old Town Spring and happy hours at Crescent Moon Wine Bar, Pallotta’s Italian Grill and Bar Louie.

Upcoming socials for the rest of the year include dinner at Jerry Built Homegrown Burgers, a night at The Woodlands Idol competition and a painting session at Pinot’s Palette.

Our committee also plays host to our new members’ party to introduce the new members to the returning Partners. We plan an end-of-the-season party to recognize all the volunteer hours Partners has contributed over the past season.

We look forward to seeing you at a social event soon!

Join The Pavilion Partners as They Light the Night

by Karen Schexnayder

The Pavilion Partners is about bringing people together, and this fall Partners members and The Pavilion community are asked to join our team at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light The Night Walk on Sunday, Oct. 20, 2013.

A Remembrance Ceremony, held at 4:30 p.m., honors friends and family whose lives were lost battling cancer. This year’s Walk follows the ceremony with check-in beginning at 5:30 p.m. All events for the Walk take place at Market Street - The Woodlands.

Participants of all ages are welcome and we encourage anyone from The Pavilion community to join Team Pavilion Partners. Light the Night is a fun, family-friendly event with music, refreshments and entertainment and through our team’s fundraising efforts, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is able to fund treatments that are saving the lives of blood cancer patients.

To join Team Pavilion Partners or make a contribution to our team, please contact Leslie Williams, volunteer and special events coordinator at: 281-210-1125 or lwilliams@woodlandscenter.org.

The Pavilion Names New Assistant Box Office Manager

DuBois Remembered for Commitment to the Arts and Education

by Stanica Matijevich

Cindy DuBois, who served as marketing and education director for The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, passed away July 2, after an eight month battle with cancer. She is remembered for her commitment to the performing arts and educational outreach programs at The Pavilion.

In May, Mike Karczewski joined The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion as the Assistant Box Office Manager. Originally from the Detroit area, Karczewski grew up in Dearborn, Mich., where he first began working in box offices in high school.

Karczewski received his Bachelor of Arts in Art History from Wayne State University. He went on to get his master’s degree, also in Art History, from the University of Georgia. While living in Georgia he worked for various venues. After nine years he moved to Washington D.C. to work at Warner Theatre.

Karczewski has seen it all from Nascar races to performances at amphitheatres. He even has a little experience with the paranormal. While living in the Detroit area, he was working at a theatre that is rumored to be haunted by a ghost named Max. When he was working late one night he heard noises, and when he turned to look at the stage he saw Max moving a chair from one end of the stage to the next.

His top ten favorite performers are Fleetwood Mac, Billy Idol, Goo Goo Dolls, Norah Jones, Van Cliburn, Phillip Glass, David Gray, Cher and Mary Wilson of the Supremes.

Though not a native Texan he claims to be enjoying his time in Texas. When not working at The Pavilion he likes to read, watch silent movies and French films (he speaks French too) and travel to see museum shows.

“The best part of working at The Pavilion is that you get the best of both worlds at one venue, from performing arts to contemporary concerts,” said Karczewski.

DuBois started at The Pavilion in January 2000 as the public relations manager. In 2005, she was promoted to the marketing and education director where she was responsible for the overall marketing, advertising and public relations efforts of The Pavilion, as well as the production of the educational outreach programs.

DuBois was proud of her efforts to expose youngsters to music in education through fine arts programs and concerts. She helped grow the Children’s Festival into one of the most popular weekend events for families in the area and provide growing audiences for the Houston Symphony and Houston Ballet.

“She has been the driving force for our performing arts and educational outreach programs,” said Jerry MacDonald, president and CEO of The Pavilion. “Under her leadership, attendance nearly tripled during her tenure.”

DuBois was known for her smile, compassion for others, kind heart, homemade salsa and interest in scary movies and HGTV shows. She cherished the friendships she made along the way through her work at The Pavilion.

She is survived by her husband Andrew, daughter Madeline and son Hunter.

The Woodlands Center for the Performing Arts 2005 Lake Robbins Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77380

CenterStage is a publication of The Center for the Performing Arts at The Woodlands, a nonprofit organization and home of The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID The Woodlands Center for The Performing Arts

Photo by Ted Washington