With Saks Fifth Avenue as the backdrop for a swank cocktail party, Houston Symphony executive director and CEO Mark Hanson launched the series of events surrounding the symphony's 100th anniversary gala. Focalpoint was a very special photo exhibition.
The “I Heart the Houston Symphony” photo retrospective featured portraits of individuals who helped shape the organization during its first century. Included were portraits of Ima Hogg, Warren S. Bellows, Sr., Hugh Roy Cullen and General Maurice Hirsch, many of them provided by Gittings.
That prestigious portrait photography studio along with Gittings' Andrew Cordes, Brad Mariage and Kenn Stolte were among those specifically thanked by Hanson in his brief remarks. Terry Brown, Ginny Garrett, April Lykos and Centennial co-chair Mary Lynn Marks were recognized for their roles in bringing the photographic retrospective exhibit to life.
Joining the celebration were Symphony president Bob Peiser and wife Nancy; board chair Jesse Tutor and wife Betty;Centennial ball chairsCora Sue, Harry Mach and Steve Mach; plus Carolyn and Dr. Mike Mann, Tom Lykos, Marie Taylor Bosarge, Helen and Jim Shaffer, Laura Bellows, Susan Hansen,Vicki West.and Saks GM Bobby Dees and wife Wezy.
Christina and Mark Hanson peruse 100 years of Houston Symphony photos at Saks Fifth Avenue.
