Houston Ballet Ball 2022 Celebrates Jewels Theme
By Jennifer Roosth Photography by Alida Bonifaz, Wilson Parish, Dave Rossman, and Johnny Than
THE SETTING: More than 400 guests, clad in black tie and a sea of elegant gowns, made their appearance at the Wortham Theater Center to salute the in-person return of the Ballet Ball after two long years. This year’s event was inspired by the glamour and elegance of George Balanchine’s ballet, Jewels. As guests made their way into the lobby, the attendees admired and took photos in front of a beautiful custom wall crafted out of both painted and actual pointe shoes. During cocktail hour, guests sipped on libations and elixirs while perusing impressive silent auction items.
THE STYLE: Richard Flowers of The Events Company transformed the Grand Foyer of the Wortham Theater Center into a dazzling venue dripping with gemstones. The balconies of the Grand Foyer, adorned with statement necklaces, overlooked a stunning gemstone-shaped dance floor and tables decorated with vivid emerald tablecloths and ruby-red centerpieces. Once seated, guests indulged in a decadent dinner prepared by Jackson and Company. The night’s first course featured a 50 Carat salad, an homage to the evening’s theme, accompanied by lemon thyme lavosh bread. The feast continued with snapper topped with leek and kumquat emulsion saffron, poached fennel, Yellow Diamond au gratin potatoes, and Romanesco. For dessert, guests delighted in a Jewelry Box, comprised of a blondie dressed in white chocolate and caramel mousse with caramel-filled chocolate jewels. Following dinner, attendees crowded the dance floor and danced the night away to the sounds of Gen 8 presented by Elan Artists.
THE PURPOSE: The 2022 Ballet Ball, chaired by Stephanie and Frank Tsuru, along with Kelli and John Weinzierl, raised nearly $1.4 million for the Houston Ballet, led creatively by The Harris Masterson III Artistic Director, Stanton Welch. The organization’s mission is to inspire a lasting love and appreciation for dance through artistic excellence, exhilarating performances, innovative choreography, and superb educational programs.
