Music Under the Stars
Don't forget the gardens show: Opera Vista brings moonlight sonatas to BayouBend
- Bayou Bend provides its own moon for the annual Opera Vista evening in thegardens.
- An all-American program will fill the Diana Garden with music for the 8 p.m.concert.
While Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens director Bonnie Campbell is just as excited as anyone about this weekend's opening of the Lora Jean Kilroy Visitor and Education Center, she wants to remind Houstonians that Saturday night is also the annual Opera Vista production in the gardens.
This once-a-year collaboration under the stars between Opera Vista and Bayou Bend allows visitors to tour the central hall of the historic house between 7:15 and 7:45 p.m. At 8 p.m. the performance takes place on the vast lawn stretching to the Diana Fountain.
Take your blankets and lawn chairs, but leave the food and drink, except for water at home. (Wine, beer, soft drinks and water will be available for purchase.)
The program for this fourth annual presentation is themed "Simply American Songs and Gifts." The program will include a selection of songs and arias from American composers, culminating in Aaron Copeland's Appalachian Spring.
The concerts are in keeping with Ima Hogg's legacy and her wishes for use of her former home that is now under the auspices of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. The noted philanthropist and collector of American antiques was also a great fan of classical music. She founded the Houston Symphony and hosted numerous concerts at Bayou Bend,
Rain date is Sunday. Tickets, available online and at the gate, are $25 with $5 discounts for seniors and MFAH members. Details are available from the Bayou Bend offices, 713-639-7759.