Shelby's Social Diary
The Broadway stars shine and the music soars at the Ensemble Theatre galacelebrating 35 years
It's always an impressive retinue of well-known talents that hit Houston for the Ensemble Theatre's annual black-tie gala and Saturday night's bash at the Hilton Americas-Houston was no exception. Honorees Stephanie Mills, Wayne DeHart and Vernon Landers made the party while playwright Ntozake Shange sent a video message to local fans.
In special tribute to Mills, Houston Ensemble Theatre board member Alaina King Benford sang "Home," Mills' signature hit from her Broadway performance as Dorothy inThe Wiz. It was applause, applause as the crowd was more than a little taken with Benford's vocal talents and her resemblance to the star.
It was a musically rich evening as the program kicked off with a lively performance of the theater's original 35th anniversary theme "We're Moving Forward." Performing were Werner Richmond, Anthony "Bogess" Glover, Donna Stewart and the aforementioned Benford.
Mayor Annise Parker took the spotlight to praise the theater for its success and commended individual and community supporters. Chase was honored as Corporate Partner of the Year.
Taking the helm and helping bring in the $270,000-plus proceeds were gala chairs Diedra and Terence Fontaine and honorary chairs Soraya and Scott McClelland.
Helping the Ensemble celebrate were Marguerite Williams, Winell and Doug Herron, Argentina James, Janette Cosley, Eileen Morris, Susan and Matt Waller, LaShanna Leonard, T.C. Carson, Sharon Michael Owens, Naana Danquah and Denice Thurman.