Ensemble Theatre gala celebrates ‘Empire’
The scene at the Hilton Americas-Houston for Ensemble Theatre’s annual summer gala was nothing short of spectacular.
More than 500 black-tie partygoers took their seats around crystal-laden tables adorned with orchid, hydrangea and rose centerpieces.
The lights dimmed for the “Follow the Dream: Celebrating the Empire” program, and dancers sprang to life on the main stage. They performed a choreographed dance to “You’re So Beautiful,” a song from the Fox network’s hit TV drama “Empire.”
Afterward, mistress of ceremonies Deborah Duncan appeared on one of the glittering mini-stages that flanked each corner of the ballroom. The “Great Day Houston” host recognized celebrity honorees Irma Hall, Attica Locke and Katlynn Simone, who received lifetime achievement, producer of the year and rising star accolades, respectively. The 2015 Founder’s Award was presented to Mayor Annise Parker, and Schlumberger was named Corporate Partner of Year.
To coincide with the Ensemble Theatre’s first show of the coming season, “Platanos y Collard Greens,” attendees dined on a Southern feast of beef short ribs, twice-baked potatoes, collard greens and plantains.
Thanks to the fundraising efforts of co-chairs Argentina James, Scott Minnix and Jesse Tyson, the soiree reached its goal of $350,000 benefiting the premiere African-American theater. Patrons celebrated on the dance floor to sounds from the Yvonne Washington Band.
Spotted in the crowd: Diedra and Dr. Terence Fontaine, Brenda PetersChase and John Chase Jr., U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, Rachel and Jerry Davis, Genora and Dwight Boykins, Drs. Elizabeth and Cesar Maldonado, Eleanor and Ben Gilbane, Paula and Dwayne Harris, Lynda House-McPeters, Sallie Morian and Michael Clark, Jocelyn and Terry Williams, Merele Yarborough, Mario Garner, Marsha and Richard Huebner and Dr. Robert Morrow.