EVENTS
MUSEUMS
Asia Society Texas Center
Xu Bing: Word Alchemy
Ongoing through Jul 14
Museum Of Fine Arts, Houston
Yayoi Kusama “Aftermath of Obliteration of Eternity Ongoing
Jacolby Satterwhite; A Metta Prayer
Ongoing through Oct 13
Raqib Shaw: Ballads of East and West Ongoing through Sep 2
Thomas Demand: The Stutter of History Ongoing Through Sep 15
Meiji Modern Opens Jul 7 through Sep 15
Contemporary Arts Museum Houston
Olivia Erlanger: If Today Were Tomorrow Ongoing through Oct 27
Amoako Boafo: Soul of Black Folks
Holocaust Museum Houston
Art in War
Ongoing through Aug 25
Facing Survival l David Kassan
Opens Jul 12 thru Jan 5, 2025
Menil
Ruth Asawa Through Line
Ongoing through Jul 21
Janet Sobel: All-Over
Ongoing through Aug 11
Wall Drawing Series; Marc Baur Ongoing through Aug 18
Abstraction after Modernism: Recent Acquisitions
Ongoing through Aug 25
Foyer installation: On Kawara Ongoing through Sep 15
Longing Grief and Spirituality: Art Since 1980 Ongoing through Fall 2024
Portraits of Women from the Collection Ongoing through Nov 10
Houston Museum Of Natural Science
Permanent Matter and Motion
Everyday Faberge The World Around Us
Special Exhibitions
Death By Natural Causes Ongoing
Sharks! The Meg, The Monsters, The Myths Ongoing
MUSIC & DANCE
For updates go to www.houstonintown.com
AGATHA CHRISTIE’S AND THEN THERE WERE NONE JUL 19 through Aug 25
Broadway Across America
Hobby Center
Disney’s The Lion King July 11 through Aug 4
Funny Girl Aug 20 through 25
MEMORIAL VILLAGES FARMERS MARKET
Every Saturday, Rain or Shine 9am - 1pm
Hunters Creek Village at First Congregational Church 10840 Beinhorn Road
STAGES REPERTORY THEATER
Miss Rhythm - The Legend of Ruth Brown Aug 9 through Aug 13
SPORTS Baseball
Houston Astros
Minute Maid Park
July 9-11 Miami 12-14 Texas
26-28 L A Dodgers
29-31 Pittsburgh
Aug 2-4 Tampa Bay 16-18 Chicago 19-21 Boston
29-31 Kansas City
Houston Dynamo Shell Energy Field
July
Aug 5 Real Salt Lake 24 Toronto FC
12503 Vindon Drive | Memorial Meadows
List Price
$2,150,000 | MLS# 50283691
Situated on a corner lot in coveted Memorial Meadows, this custom-built new construction is a testament to award-winning craftsmanship and luxury. Designed for entertaining and comfortable living, it boasts generous open living spaces, a private Study, Media Room, and Game Room.
Michelle Hinton | Compass | 832-795-2246
739 Azaleadell Dr | Garden Oaks Plaza
List Price
$2,049,000 | MLS# 36028929
A true masterpiece situated on almost a quarter acre completed in 2022. Open floor plan 5 Bedroom/4 Bath home fulfills every buyer's desire. The 2-car garage features 12-foot ceilings, making adding a car lift an easy option. The grand foyer showcases soaring ceilings and exquisite lighting.
Stacy Wood | Compass | 713-504-2059
2611 Newman St | Upper Kirby
List Price
$775,000 | MLS# 74255408
Tastefully updated townhome in heart of Upper Kirby with 3 large bedrooms, 3/1 large baths and huge closets. Located on a horseshoe street with no thru traffic, West Court has a true neighborhood feel and is close to high-end shops and restaurants. Open floorplan with lots of natural light. Oak hardwood floor and tile throughout - no carpet!
David M Young | Compass | 713-320-6453
Intown’s Classical Music Editor and Critic, the Hon. Philip Berquist, Honorary Consul for the Republic of Croatia for Texas
This column usually covers the cultural schedules of the three major classical music organizations in Houston - the Houston Symphony, Houston Grand Opera and Houston Ballet. For this issue and at times in the future, I want to additionally present information on classical music opportunities for our readers other than the “Big Three.”
Let’s begin with information of the Houston Civic Symphony.
HCS was formed 57 years ago in 1967. A group of musicians ran an advertisement in one of the Houston newspapers stating that they wanted to form a volunteer symphony orchestra. They received numerous responses from musicians in the area and the Houston Civic Symphony Orchestra was formed as a Texas not-for-profit corporation.
The HCS by-laws’ mission statement reads, “to create and maintain a non-profit orchestra dedicated to the performance of music, to provide the public with good live music, to offer qualified instrumentalists of the community an opportunity to play fine symphonic music, and to encourage and educate talented individuals to appear as vocal, instrumental, and choreographic soloists.” In my opinion, the organization has lived up to its mission statement.
HCS performs 5 to 6 concerts per season in various local venues. These include Houston Christian University (formerly Houston Baptist University), the Moores Opera House at the Moores School of Music at the University of Houston, St Martin’s Episcopal Church, and Sugar Land Baptist Church.
The orchestra has nearly 100 volunteer musicians from various walks of life. There are a large number of educators - high school, middle school and elementary school orchestral and band directors, even university professors. Also there are several attorneys (including a Texas Supreme Court Justice) and accountants as well as IT professionals, real estate agents, oil and gas engineers and financial planners.
HCS is led by a very active Board of Directors - attorney Al Thomas, President (since 2006), Ken Henderson, Vice President, who is Director of Bands at Alief Middle School, Duncan Monsurud, Treasurer, who has many years experience in several orchestras and works as a co-op owner of Electric Violin Shop, Matthew Chan, Secretary, violinist, along with Monica Hanna, and Martin Kastenbaum, both violinists.
Brian Runnels has served as Music Director and Conductor of the Houston Civic Symphony since 2006. He first conducted the Houston Civic Symphony in 1979 when he served as Apprentice Conductor with the orchestra under Robert Linder. Since that time, he has conducted orchestras, musical theater, oratorio, and opera in Missouri, Kansas, Minnesota, and Kentucky. After earning a degree in music education at Houston Baptist University he went on to earn a masters degree in church music and choral conducting at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in orchestra conducting from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He has had additional conducting training at the Mozarteum in Salzburg, Austria and in the United States with Max Rudolf and Herbert Blomstedt.
Michael Alan Isadore, Associate Conductor, came to Houston after graduating with Masters Degrees in conducting and clarinet performance from the University of Missouri, Kansas City, Conservatory of Music. Since moving to Houston, Isadore has built an important career teaching and
conducting while maintaining his recognized performance ability on the clarinet. As a conductor, Isadore was appointed the Associate Conductor of the Houston Civic Symphony starting with the 2007 season, was guest conductor of the Brazosport Symphony Orchestra in 2003, The Houston Civic Symphony in 2004 and the Houston Sinfonietta on two occasions in 2004 and 2005. Recently, Isadore joined the staff of the Houston Youth Symphony as one of their conductors. Isadore has been director of the Dulles High School Orchestra since 1999. Under his leadership, the Dulles Orchestra was chosen to play at the Midwest Convention in Chicago in December 2004 and was chosen as the Runner up for TMEA Honor Orchestra in 2005.
The Houston Civic Symphony has, since its beginning, provided our community with some very serious music concerts on its yearly schedule. Here is its schedule for 2024-2025:
• Daniel Zajicek - Overture to The Pit - PREMIERE PERFORMANCE
• Aaron Copland - Lincoln Portrait, Johannes Brahms - Symphony no. 4 in E minor, op. 98
• Additional work - TBD
Friday, September 27, 2024, 7:30pm, Houston Christian University, Dunham Theater, Morris Cultural Arts Center, 7502 Fondren, 77074
• Samuel Barber - Medea’s Meditation and Dance of Vengeance
• Lili Boulanger - D’un Matin de Printemps, Antonin Dvorak - Symphony no. 6 in D major, op. 60
Thursday, November 7, 2024, 7:30pm, Houston Christian University
• Christmas Concert with Houston Christian University Choirs - Program TBA
Friday, December 6, 2024, Houston Christian University
• J. S. Bach - Orchestral Suite no. 4 in D major, BWV 1069
• Georges Bizet - Symphony no. 1 in C major
• Ottorino Respighi - Pines of Rome
Friday, January 24, 2025, 7:00pm, St Martin’s Episcopal Church, 717 Sage Road, Houston, 77056
• Shostakovich - Symphony no. 1 2025 Young Artist Competition Winners
• Additional works TBA
Friday, March 7, 2025, 7:30pm, Houston Christian University
• Ralph Vaughan Williams - Dona Nobis Pacem
• Johannes Brahms - Schicksalslied, op. 54
• Additional work - TBD
With choirs from Houston Christian University and the Houston Choral Society
Friday, May 2, 2025, 7:39pm, Houston Christian University
Finally, here is a bit of information that should please everyone. I asked the HSC President, Al Thomas, about ticket prices. He responded, “All of our concerts are free. Show up, pick your favorite seat, and enjoy!”
I will be back with the next issue highlighting the 2024-2025 classical music events of the “Big Three”.
Let me continue to hear from you - classicalmusicberquist@gmail.com
14236 Kellywood Ln | Memorial West
List Price $992,000 | MLS# 85967093
Beautifully remodeled by award-winning designer. 2 story, 4/2.5 home zoned to great Spring Branch ISD schools in Memorial West/Energy Corridor. Enterprise class wifi in home. Walk to neighborhood tennis court, pool & clubhouse. Close to great shopping, dining and Terry Hershey Park.. David M Young | Compass | 713-320-6453
115 Paul Revere Drive | Bunker Hill Woods
This 5-bedroom custom residence, designed by award-winning firm, The Bell Design Group, in collaboration with boutique architect Weidner Hasou, features soaring ceilings and walls of windows. Tucked in an idyllic location on a sprawling 25,000+ SqFt lot at the end of a private wooded street, the surrounding area is characterized by its tranquil ambiance. Michelle Hinton | Compass | 832-795-2246
990 Bentwater Dr | Montgomery, TX
List Price $785,000 | MLS # 77657245| MLS#
A stunning residential gem nestled in the exclusive gated community of Bentwater Yacht & Country Club. As you step into the home, you're greeted by an oversized living room that radiates warmth and comfort, making it the perfect space for entertaining or simply relaxing with the family.
Beverly Smith | Coldwell Banker Realty | 713-569-2113
Music Director and Conductor Brian Runnels
Restaurants with Staying Power
by Marene Gustin
Some favorite eateries never made it through COVID, struggling to switch to take-out only during the lock-down, and then facing supply line shortages and rising inflation. At the beginning of this year almost 20 eateries and coffee shops closed their doors including such popular ones as Harold’s in the Heights, Urban Eats, Alice Blue, and Sushi King. But as many close, and new ones spring up, there are some that seem to have real staying power.
Kata Robata Sushi + Grill
3600 Kirby Dr. Suite H
713.526.8858
katarobata.com
Chef Manabu “Hori” Horiuchi’s premiere Japanese spot just catty-cornered from the shuttered Sushi King, just celebrated its 15th anniversary, and is still going strong. The four-times James Beard nominated chef is known for his sushi creations mad from seafood flown in from Japan several times a week, as well as his creative takes on ramen, miso lobster mac n’ cheese, and grilled meats. More than just excellent food, Chef “Hori” Chef Hori has fostered a community of Japanese culture enthusiasts and provided a nurturing environment
beginning.
for his dedicated team members, many of whom have been with him since the
The ‘Granddaddy’ of them all: more than 106 years old!
Chef Hori
Ragin’ Cajun
4302 Richmond Ave.
713.623.6321
ragin-cajun.com
New location: Spring Branch 1725 Wirt Rd. 713-832-1399
And over at mudbug central, the original Ragin’ Cajun turns the big five-o this year. While the po-boy sandwiches are still a big draw, when it’s crawfish season people flock here for the buckets of bugs boiled in a secret spiced liquid, something they’ve been doing since 1976. You can also get snow crab legs (two pounds w worth) boiled in the same delicious brew along with corn and red potatoes.
Pico’s
3601 Kirby Dr.
832.831.9940
picos.net
Celebrating 35 years, Arnaldo Richard’s Pico’s has been consistent in serving up the flavors of the seven regions of Mexico along with some really big margaritas. The restaurant is also known for its moles and ceviches, as well as Pico’s famous Chile En Nogada, a roasted poblano pepper stuffed with pulled port in a peanut sauce with green olives, almonds and fruit covered in creamy walnut sauce topped with pomegranate seeds. The wonderful ambiance and service keep customers coming back as do the parking lot parties for Cinco de Mayo and Derby Day.
Backstreet
1103 S. Shepherd Dr.
713.521.2239
backstreetcafe.net
H Town Restaurant Groups’ chef Hugo Ortega and wife Tracy Vaught have a half dozen popular eateries, but it all started with Backstreet Cafe more than 40 years ago. Nestled in a quaint 30’s-era home in River Oaks, Backstreet Cafe has fed generations of eaters craving quality Southern, Cajun, and Creole flavors. Think roasted oysters, fried green tomatoes, and their famous red corn chicken enchiladas. Come for the live jazz at Sunday brunch and enjoy one of the finest restaurant patios in town.
Rajin’ Cajun new location on Wirt Rd.
Then there are some really senior eateries. The legendary Tony’s turns 60 next year, while Houston’s oldest Tex-Mex spot, Molina’s Cantina is an octogenarian. But the granddaddy of them all is Christie’s Seafood and Steaks at more than 106 years old. Or, as they say, since before you were born.
Jonathan Horowitz, president of the Houston Hospitality Alliance (formerly the Greater Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau) says currently the cost of doing business is putting pressure on the industry from both ends.
Tony’s
“First the food, staff, and rent costs
are increasing,” he says, “and then customers are also feeling the pinch and are demanding more for their money.
“When I think about the restaurants that have stood the test of time I think about two things. One, is consistency. Customers know what they will get when they go there. Why do I keep going back to the same five restaurants? Because I know I’ll get great food and service. Every time. The second thing is you have to have a niche. Whether you’re the neighborhood hangout or the special occasion place, you need to find a specific role that needs filling and fill it. And then you have to be consistent about fill-
ing that niche. In Houston where there’s a new flashy restaurant opening every five minutes, you need to give your customers a reason to keep coming back.”
And going back to Kata Robata, Chef “Hori” agrees.
“There are many factors that contribute to our longevity, but the most important is our consistency, constant drive for perfection, incredible staff and listening to our guests. We never rest on our laurels and are as hungry today to make a great restaurant, as we were when we opened. We are always looking to evolve and stay relevant, we know no matter how much success we have had, the future is never guaranteed, and we approach each day and service as if it is the most important one yet. This type of dedication to one’s work and craft is very common in Japanese culture and a big part of my culinary and business philosophy. Work hard, always do your best, stay humble, always look to learn and get better, appreciate your staff and show thanks to your guests.”
Tony’s turns 60 next year
Octogenarian Molina’s
