Music and more music punctuated the Opera in the Heights' fundraising dinner that closed the company's 19th season. The 35th floor perch of the Petroleum Club with expansive views of the Houston skyline was the perfect setting for "An Evening in the Magnolia City."
The evening honored Opera in the Heights co-founder and former artistic director Lois Alba, stunning in a shimmering gown fit for a diva. After receiving honors from company board chairman Josh Agrons, Alba introduced her student and protégé, soprano Michelle Bradley. Winner of the 2014 Marilyn Horne Song Competition, she brought the house down with "Vissi d'arte" from Puccini's Tosca. She was rewarded with an extended standing ovation.
The evening also included performances by Opera in the Heights alumni Octavio Moreno and Amanda Kingston in solo and duet presentations.
Marianne and Kenny Terrell chaired the evening that featured a silent auction with two special opportunities — a private dinner with Opera in the Heights maestro Eiki Isomura and the opportunity to conduct the national anthem on opening night of OH!’s 20th anniversary season, as part of an “Ultimate Opera Experience” package.
Opera lovers included OH! executive director Mariam Khalili, artistic director Keith Chapman, Arthur Wachter, Lamar Matthews and David Douglas, Heather and Tony Tripodo, Corey Powell, Josie and Fred Neville, Marcia and Mike Feldman and Lynn and Bo Eagles.
Ashish and Sameera Mahendru, from left, and Tim McConn
