The stage of Jones Hall seldom glows more elegantly than it does each October for the annual Society for the Performing Arts fall luncheon. Wednesday was no exception as the performance space was packed to sell-out capacity with fashionable femmes and a sprinkling of gents.
Leading the stylish ensemble were luncheon chair Lucinda Loya, on the arm of hubby Javier Loya, and honorary chair Karen Pulaski, escorted by her young daughter, Leila.
Headlining the day was Kathryn Stockett, author of the best-selling book The Help, who entertained the rapt audience with tales of her Mississippi heritage, of the adjustment between life in the magnolia state and living in Manhattan and of her troubles in meeting deadlines for her next book.
It was a special day for artist Mariquita Masterson, who received the Ann Sakowitz Performing Arts Advocate Award. Liz Glanville of DeVille Fine Jewelry designed the award — a one of a kind brooch in gold with rubies, the design based on the SPA logo.
Applauding Masterson, Stockett and the luncheon chairs were SPA executive director June Christensen, Phoebe Tudor, Melanie Gray, Sharon Adams, Ginni Mithoff, Stewart Masterson, Libbie Masterson, Soraya McClelland, Stephanie Cockrell, Estela Cockrell, Vanessa Sendukas and Becca Cason Thrash, who hosted the underwriter cocktail party honoring Stockett at her home the night before.
