Event Date: April 2, 2022
Location: Wortham Theater Center
Event: Gala
No. of Attendees: 360
Money Raised: $600,000
Beneficiary: Society for the Performing Arts
Chairpersons: Paul and Kristina Somerville
Honorees: Phoebe and Bobby Tudor
Décor: Bergner and Johnson
Cuisine: Jackson & Company
Photography: Priscilla Dickson
Society for the Performing Arts Had a “Ball” Honoring a Great Houston Couple
and then Changed its Name
The etymology of the word “kaleidoscope” is derived from three Ancient Greek words, that when combined, translate into “observation of beautiful forms.” Style, color, beauty and form were on display at the Society for the Performing Arts (SPA) Kaleidoscope Ball, held recently at Wortham Theater Center.
Chaired by Paul and Kristina Somerville and honoring philanthropists Phoebe and Bobby Tudor, the event raised a record $600,000 as a final event under the SPA brand.
SPA CEO Meg Booth said of the event, “This evening was a wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate Houston’s cultural richness through the arts as well as the contributions of Phoebe and Bobby Tudor. “We are grateful to those who have continued to support us and our efforts to bring first-rate performances for all Houstonians to enjoy.”
The evening’s festivities included beautiful décor from Bergner and Johnson, a wonderful catered dinner by Jackson & Company, an exciting live auction, dancing, and a kaleidoscope of performers reflecting and celebrating Houston’s diverse artistic landscape, including live music by Asleep at the Wheel, DJ Corey Greene, the High School of Performing and Visual Arts, and the Westbury High School Marching Band.
Fifty-five years ago, SPA, founded in 1966 with the opening of Jones Hall, was created to provide Houstonians with access to high-quality cultural and arts education programs. They have presented more than 1,000 exceptional performances of music, dance, theater, and more, including world premieres and Houston debuts of some of the finest artists of our time. The Kaleidoscope Ball gave partygoers a sneak peek at SPA’s new name (Performing Arts Houston), brand and the upcoming season—announced to the public on April 12th. It looks like another great season for this organization.
Socially present (not previously mentioned): Margaret Alkek Williams and David Wuthrich, Hallie Vanderhider, Leticia and Steve Trauber, Linda and Willie Chiang, Amy and Rob Pierce, Tyson and Tena Faust, Jay Jones and Terry Wayne Jones, Lesha and Tom Elsenbrook, Melanie Gray and Mark Wawro, Lilly and Harrison Cullen, Linda Lorelle and Lou Gregory, Priti and Sammy Virani, Julie and Gary Roberts, Carrie and Sverre Brandsberg-Dahl, Rachelle and Jeff Ball, Doug and Reagan Bauer, Gary and Julie Roberts, Neiman Marcus Brand Experience Manager Heather Almond, Mark Jodon and Bill Swanstrom and designer David Peck.
