Other than the birth of a baby, there probably is never a good time to be in the hospital. But for patients at Houston Methodist this past week, their timing was right for a very merry medical moment — the annual Center for Performing Arts Medicine's annual Holiday Concert. Houston Ballet, the Houston Symphony and Houston Grand Opera combined forces to present the hour-long early evening musicale.
The Crain Garden lobby in the main building served as theater for the performance attended by 700 patients, doctors, hospital staff and friends. Before the musical entertainment began, Methodist CEO Dr. Marc Boom recognized philanthropist Margaret Alkek Williams for her long-standing generosity. In fact, the holiday concert was part of the on-going Margaret Alkek Williams Crain Garden Performance Series. For those who could not leave their hospital beds, the concert was available on closed circuit TV.
Dr. Richard Stasney, founder of the Center for Performing Arts Medicine and renowned voice expert, presided over the festivities that included costumed dancers from Houston Ballet's The Nutcracker assisting guests to their seats.
In a prepared statement, Stasney noted, "The performing arts at Houston Methodist help us take care of the entire patient, as well as our nurses, physicians, and other staff. Research has shown providing comfort and inspiration through kindness and art can result in better outcomes for patients."
Dr. Richard Stasney and Houston Symphony tuba player Dave Kirk share a moment at the Houston Methodist holiday contest.
