Broadway met brainpower as Miguel Cervantes, best known for his star turn playing the lead role in Hamilton, headlined The Blue Bird Circle’s Annual Spring Luncheon, themed “Arts and the Brain: Joyful Engagements.” Held March 18, the sold-out midday affair brought together more than 380 supporters to celebrate the legacy and impact of the century-old nonprofit, which has become a Houston institution in advancing pediatric neurological care.
Chaired by longtime volunteers Maggie Austin and Ellen Stough, the luncheon honored Dr. Debra F. Sukin, president and CEO of Texas Children’s Hospital, for her leadership and commitment to improving children’s health. Dr. Sukin highlighted the importance of research in pediatric neurology and shared personal reflections on her own journey as a mother.
Guests were visibly moved as Cervantes took the stage, performing signature numbers from Hamilton and opening up in a conversation with Ernie Manouse about the loss of his infant daughter to epilepsy. His emotional tribute and advocacy for research through Cure Epilepsy struck a powerful chord, turning the spotlight toward the children and families served by The Blue Bird Circle’s mission.
The event raised $300,000 in support of life-changing programs, including The Blue Bird Circle Clinic for Pediatric Neurology at Texas Children’s Hospital and affiliated research and treatment centers at Baylor College of Medicine and the Duncan Neurological Research Institute.
Spotted among the do-gooding daytime crowd were Annette Griffin, Gail Branca, Sally Barber, Becky Chapman, Tanya and Andy Greenwood, Betty Ann and Beth Graves, Jenny Murphy, Dagmar Deason, Jan Sexton, Mikki Donnelly, Sallie Gordon, Jan Cobler and Trish Greaser, Dodi Willingham, Julie Little, Dr. Howard Weiner, and Dr. Huda Zoghbi.
