Official Program of
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
TOSCA HOUSTON GRAND OPERA
MAY 27, 2016
© HGO, Tosca 2015 Photo: Lynn Lane
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Tonight in the Plaza 7-7:45 p.m.
Tonight in the Plaza........................................................................... 1 Letter from the President & CEO..................................................... 2 Tosca................................................................................................... 3 Houston Grand Opera Creative Team........................................... 4 Houston Grand Opera Production Credits..................................... 4 Synopsis............................................................................................. 5 Houston Grand Opera Orchestra................................................... 6
Pavilion Talk with Paul Hopper, dramaturg for Houston Grand Opera Instrument Petting Zoo with The Pavilion Partners Crafts with The Pavilion Partners
Houston Grand Opera Chorus and Supernumeraries................... 6 Houston Grand Opera Biographies............................................. 7-10 Houston Grand Opera Management and Staff.......................... 11 Musical Scores at The Pavilion........................................................ 13 Funding the Future of Art................................................................. 14 Volunteer Spotlight............................................................................15 2016 Pavilion Partners Members..................................................... 15 Sponsor Spotlight.............................................................................. 16 Encore................................................................................................16 Concert Etiquette.............................................................................17 Guest Information............................................................................17 ShowTime...........................................................................................18
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Credits Shannon Wilson – Editor in Chief Cameron Klepac – Managing Editor Sarah Stephan – Contributing Writer Claire Wright – Contributing Writer Program design by Don Crouch, imagineer
Letter from the President & CEO
The Center for the Performing Arts at The Woodlands
Welcome to The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion and our 27th season of presenting the very best performing arts events, educational outreach programs and live music. The Pavilion is known as the Summer Home of the Houston Symphony, Home Away from Home for the Houston Ballet and a presenting venue for the Houston Grand Opera and the Texas Music Festival Orchestra.
Home of The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion presented by Huntsman 2005 Lake Robbins Drive • The Woodlands, TX 77380 Phone: 281-364-3010 Fax: 281-364-3011 www.woodlandscenter.org info@woodlandscenter.org
Tonight, we are excited to welcome back to our stage the Houston Grand Opera. Tonight’s performance of “Tosca” is one of the most famous operas in existence and has been performed on stages regularly since 1900. We are fortunate to have the full production of the opera this evening with English translations on the LED screens for you.
Carol P. Garner – Chairman of the Board Jerry MacDonald – President and CEO Jonathan Homeyer – Vice Chairman Steven W. Nance – Secretary Jeff Young – Vice President Brian Pate – Treasurer
The Pavilion was proud to host over 5,000 students from 33 schools across 13 districts last week for Musical Scores. The Pavilion values the opportunity to reward students who have met a set goal with a performance on the Main Stage. Please be sure to read more about this on page 13. Make plans to attend upcoming performing arts shows. The Pavilion provides free mezzanine and lawn seating for all performing arts events thanks to our generous sponsors. At all symphony, ballet and opera performances, guests are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy in their seat or on the hill. Lawn chairs are also provided for free at these events. Please take advantage of this offer and bring your family, friends and neighbors to The Pavilion this season to enjoy an evening under the stars. You will be glad you did. See you on the hill,
Board of Directors
Bob Abendschein Estelle P. McLaughlin Joseph P. Ash Sara Ortwein Jeff Beard Steve Pate Paul J. Carroll Blake Pounds Sarah Epley Michelle Riley-Brown Jason K. Harris Adrienne Ropp Peter R. Huntsman Larry Shaffer Patrick Hynes Patrick Shea Paul R. Kenworthy, M.D Andrew E. Steinberg Daniel E. Kolkhorst Christine Thoms-Knox Maryann T. Mannen Steve Van Howe Larry Massaro Keith W. Winters
Director in memoriam Jerry MacDonald StarWars 5 x 5” OnStage President & CEO
jdollar@judestudios.com
(1922 - 2009)
Staff
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Jerry MacDonald – President & CEO Mallory Marlowe – Executive Assistant Jeff Young – Vice President of Operations JD Villaseñor – Director of Premium Seat Sales David Schlauch – Operations Manager Kelly Rich – Event Manager Josie Moore – Box Office Manager Claire Kim – Assistant Box Office Manager Matt Meyer – Assistant Operations Manager Carla Denman – VIP & Event Coordinator Joey Rincon – Overnight Security Supervisor Mike Bevel – Operations Justin McShan – Operations Lorena Hernandez – Maintenance Victor Maldonado – Maintenance Larry Stewart – Overnight Security Susana Salazar – Overnight Security Javier Ramirez – Maintenance Brian Pate – Chief Financial Officer Natalia Livingston – Controller Heather Reding – Human Resources Manager Jenny Lewis – Accountant Manager Carolina Lopez – Staff Accountant Christine Scully – Director of Development Leslie Williams – Volunteer & Special Events Coordinator Shannon Wilson – Director of Marketing & Education Cameron Klepac – Asst. Director of Public Relations & Education Sarah Stephan – Social Media & Digital Marketing Coordinator Claire Wright – Marketing Assistant
May 2016 • 2
Houston Grand Opera Presents
An Opera in Three Acts Music by Giacomo Puccini Libretto by Luigi Illica and Giuseppe Giacosa
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion May 27, 2016
Sung in Italian with projected English translation
Cast
(in order of vocal appearance):
Angelotti
Federico De Michelis †
Beth Madison Fellow
Sacristan
Kyle Albertson
Mario Cavaradossi
Chad Shelton ‡
Floria Tosca
Kelly Kaduce
Baron Scarpia
Weston Hurt
Spoletta
Chris Bozeka †
Dr. Ellen R. Gritz and Milton D. Rosenau Jr. Fellow
Sciarrone
Alex Rosen *
A Young Shepherd
Jacqueline Hickman
Jailer
Saïd Henry Pressley A co-production of Houston Grand Opera and Lyric Opera of Chicago. Houston Methodist is the official health care provider for Houston Grand Opera. United Airlines is the official airline of Houston Grand Opera. Tenenbaum Classic Jewelers is the preferred jeweler of Houston Grand Opera.
The activities of Houston Grand Opera are supported in part by funds provided by the City of Houston and Theater District Improvement, Inc., and by a grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts.
Please silence all cellphones during the performance. Photography and video are not allowed, including with cellphones. 3 • www.woodlandscenter.org
Houston Grand Opera Creative Team
Conductor
Emily Senturia ‡
Original Director
John Caird
Lynn Wyatt Great Artist 2012–13
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Director
Omer Ben Seadia *
Set Designer
Bunny Christie, Adapted for The CWMP
by the HGO Technical Department
Costume Designer
Bunny Christie
Original Lighting Designer
Duane Schuler
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Lighting Designer
Michael James Clark
Fight Director
Leraldo Anzaldúa
Chorus Master
Richard Bado ‡
The Sarah and Ernest Butler Chorus Master Chair
Children’s Chorus Director
Karen Reeves
Musical Preparation
Peter Pasztor ‡
Emily Senturia ‡
Geoffrey Loff †
Lynn Guggolz/Ms. Marianne Kah Fellow
Christopher Turbessi ‡
Stage Manager
Annie Wheeler
Surtitles by
Scott F. Heumann, adapted by Paul Hopper
*Houston Grand Opera debut † Houston Grand Opera Studio artist ‡ Former Houston Grand Opera Studio artist
Houston Grand Opera Production Credits Supertitles cued by Mary Box Scenery constructed by Ravenswood Studio, Inc., Chicago, IL Statues constructed by Roger Cresswell, UK Costumes constructed by Houston Grand Opera Costume Department Lead support for HGO’s performance of Tosca at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands is generously provided by ConocoPhillips, Margaret Alkek Williams, Houston Grand Opera Guild, and through HGO’s NEXUS Initiative, which is made possible by Anchorage Foundation of Texas; The Wortham Foundation; The Brown Foundation, Inc.; Nabors Industries; Shell Oil Company; MD Anderson Cancer Center; and M.D. Anderson Foundation.
May 2016 • 4
Synopsis June 1800. Italy has long been under the domination of the Hapsburg dynasty. Napoleon Bonaparte, however, has emerged as a threat to the status quo and Rome is in chaos, without a clear ruler. Baron Scarpia, the chief of police, has become the highest authority. Loyal to the king and queen of Naples, Scarpia seeks to eliminate any remaining trace of Napoleon’s attempts to establish a secular Roman Republic.
•Act I•
The Church of Sant’Andrea della Valle Cesare Angelotti, a Republican, has just escaped from the Castel Sant’Angelo where he had been imprisoned by Scarpia. Angelotti’s sister, the Marchesa Attavanti, has hidden a disguise for him in the church, where the painter Mario Cavaradossi is working on a painting of Mary Magdalene with the begrudging help of the Sacristan. Cavaradossi takes as his inspiration both the marchesa, whom he has recently seen at prayer, and his beloved Floria Tosca, a prominent opera singer. Cavaradossi recognizes Angelotti and promises to help him escape, but is surprised by a visit from Tosca. Angelotti hides while Cavaradossi attempts a quick conversation with Tosca. She is instantly suspicious of Cavaradossi’s cautious behavior and jealous of the woman she sees represented in his painting. Cavaradossi assuages her fears and they make plans to spend the evening together. No sooner has Tosca gone than a cannon shot signals that Angelotti’s escape has been discovered. Cavaradossi and Angelotti depart immediately for Cavaradossi’s villa. The Sacristan returns with news of Napoleon’s defeat by the Austrians. Arrangements have been made for an immediate Festival Te Deum and a concert at the Palazzo Farnese featuring Floria Tosca. Baron Scarpia, who has come in search of Angelotti, interrupts the preparations. Scarpia and his spies find an empty food basket and a woman’s fan bearing the Attavanti family crest. When Tosca returns to see Cavaradossi, her jealousy is again aroused by his absence. Scarpia preys on her suspicions by showing her the marchesa’s fan. When she leaves, Scarpia orders his agent Spoletta to follow her. As the congregation assembles for the Te Deum, Scarpia plans to eliminate Cavaradossi and possess Tosca for himself.
•Act II•
Baron Scarpia’s apartment at the Palazzo Farnese Scarpia relishes his plan to execute the traitors and seduce Tosca. When Cavaradossi is brought for questioning, the painter denies any knowledge of Angelotti’s location. At Scarpia’s request, Tosca arrives from the victory celebrations. Cavaradossi is then taken into an adjoining room and tortured. His agonized cries force Tosca to divulge Angelotti’s hiding place—the well in the garden of Cavaradossi’s villa. The tortures cease; Tosca and Cavaradossi are briefly reunited before Scarpia orders Spoletta to Angelotti’s hiding place. As Cavaradossi denounces Tosca for her betrayal, news arrives that Napoleon has actually defeated the Austrians at Marengo. Cavaradossi predicts greater and greater victory for the Republicans, and Scarpia orders him taken away for execution. When Tosca pleads for mercy, Scarpia makes his price clear: she can buy Cavaradossi’s life by giving herself to Scarpia. She agrees. Since Scarpia has ordered Cavaradossi’s death, a mock execution must be arranged, and Scarpia seems to give this order to Spoletta. Tosca makes one further request: a warrant of safe passage so that she and Cavaradossi can leave the country. This done, Scarpia advances to embrace her, and she stabs him to death.
•Act III•
The Roof of the Castel Sant’Angelo The distant song of a passing young shepherd and church bells signal the approaching dawn. Cavaradossi is brought into the castle yard to prepare for his death and his thoughts turn to Tosca. He is attempting to write a final letter to her when she appears. She shows him the warrant of safe passage, explains the mock execution, and describes how she killed Scarpia. Tosca and Cavaradossi dream of their future happiness together. As the soldiers assemble for the execution, Tosca instructs Cavaradossi to feign his death and remain motionless until she can confirm it is safe to leave. After the soldiers depart, she discovers she has been betrayed: Cavaradossi is dead. Spoletta and his men try to arrest Tosca for the murder of Scarpia, but she is too quick for them. Vowing to confront Scarpia before God, she takes her own life. The performance will last approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes including two intermissions.
HGO Performance History
Puccini’s Tosca has been regularly performed at HGO throughout the company’s history. The first staging was during HGO’s second season (1956–57); it was later staged during seasons 1965–66, 1971–72, 1977–78, 1983–84, 1990–91, 1996–97, 2003–04, 2009–10, and at Miller Outdoor Theatre in 2010. 5 • www.woodlandscenter.org
Houston Grand Opera Orchestra Patrick Summers, Artistic and Music Director Margaret Alkek Williams Chair
Violin
Denise Tarrant*, Concertmaster
Double Bass
Trumpet
Flute
Trombone
Dennis Whittaker †, Principal Erik Gronfor *, Acting Principal Carla Clark*, Acting Assistant Principal
The Sarah and Ernest Butler Concertmaster Chair
Jonathan Godfrey †, Assistant Concertmaster Oleg Sulyga *, Acting Assistant Concertmaster Carrie Kauk *, Assistant Principal Second Violin Miriam Belyatsky * Rasa Kalesnykaite * Hae-a Lee-Barnes * Sarah Ludwig † Chavdar Parashkevov * Anabel Ramirez † Mary Reed * Linda Sanders * Sylvia VerMeulen † Melissa Williams * Andres Gonzales Kana Kimura Mila Neal
Seth Allyn Morris *, Principal Christina Medawar † Sarah Frisof Melissa Suhr
Thomas Hultén †, Principal Mark Holley *, Acting Principal John McCroskey
Bass Trombone
Oboe
Elizabeth Priestly Siffert*, Principal Alison Chung*
English Horn
Cimbasso
Mark Barton *, Principal Joan Eidman *, Principal
Clarinet
Celesta/Organ
Sean Krissman †, Principal Eric Chi *, Acting Principal James Johnson
Eliseo Rene Salazar *, Principal Lorento Golofeev *, Assistant Principal Gayle Garcia-Shepard * Erika Lawson * Suzanne LeFevre †
Bass Clarinet
Cello
Contrabassoon Nathan Koch French Horn
Patrick Harvey ‡
Mr. and Mrs. James A. Elkins Endowed Chair
Timpani
Nancy Nelson*, Principal
Molly Mayfield
Percussion
Bassoon
Richard Brown *, Principal Christina Carroll
Amanda Swain*, Principal Conrad Cornelison*
Barrett Sills*, Principal Louis-Marie Fardet †, Assistant Principal Erika Johnson*, Acting Assistant Principal Wendy Smith-Butler † Steven Wiggs*
Jared Lantzy
Harp
Spring Hill
Viola
Jim Vassallo *, Principal Randal Adams * Logan Kavanaugh
Orchestra Personnel Manager Richard Brown*
*core musician † core musician on leave this production ‡ HGO Studio artist
Sarah Cranston *, Principal Kimberly Penrod Minson * Spencer Park * Kevin McIntyre
Houston Grand Opera Chorus, Children’s Chorus, and Supernumeraries
Richard Bado, Chorus Master
Emily Senturia, Assistant Chorus Master
The Sarah and Ernest Butler Chorus Master Chair
Ofelia Adame Megan Berti Christopher Childress Patrick Contreras Sybil Elizabeth Crawford
Ashly Evans Donald Figg Ami Figg Nancy L. Hall Frankie Hickman
Jon Janacek Kirsten Lutz Koerner Wesley Landry Keenan Manceaux Kathleen Manley
Heath Martin Jeff Monette Stacia Morgan Laura Elizabeth Patterson Cristino Perez
Patrick Perez Saïd Henry Pressley John Weinel Jennifer Wright
Children’s Chorus Karen Reeves, Director
Sonya Azencott Amelie Bonilla Katie Butler Bridget Gray
Emilia Haymon Alice Heather Jacqueline Hickman
Thomas Hickman Johana Lenington Victoria Martinez
Sasha Mintz Parker Vance David Wunder
Supernumeraries Brandon Barber Troy E. Faldyn Alex Boyd Christopher Lee Gibson
Dave Harris Brian Hues Daniel James
Brian Mitchell Al Perez
John Watkins Matthew Williams May 2016 • 6
Houston Grand Opera Biographies Emily Senturia (United States) Conductor Drawing from her diverse experience as a violinist, conductor, and coach, HGO Studio alumna Emily Senturia approaches operatic repertoire with an affinity for both singers and instrumentalists. Joining the Houston Grand Opera music staff this season as assistant chorus master/assistant conductor, she has conducted performances of The Little Prince and The Magic Flute (2015) at HGO and cover conducted Carousel, The Marriage of Figaro, Eugene Onegin, A Christmas Carol, and A Little Night Music. This summer, Senturia returns to Wolf Trap Opera to conduct its scenes program and prepare La bohème, after preparing and performing in The Ghosts of Versailles in 2015. At HGO, Senturia has also coached Così fan tutte, Sweeney Todd, Aida, Rigoletto, and Carmen, and assisted further productions at Atlanta Opera, Aspen Music Festival, Wolf Trap Opera, West Edge Opera, and Virginia Opera. Senturia studied opera with Jane Glover at the Royal Academy of Music, as well as orchestral conducting at both Indiana University and Boston University, and violin at Rice University. John Caird (United Kingdom)
Lynn Wyatt Great Artist 2012–13
Original Director John Caird’s previous work at HGO includes Don Carlos and La bohème (2012), this production of Tosca (2010, 2015), and the world premiere of André Previn’s Brief Encounter (2009), for which he also wrote the libretto. The Tony Award–winning director (for the original Broadway productions of Nicholas Nickleby and Les Misérables) enjoyed a long tenure with the Royal Shakespeare Company and has also directed for London’s National Theatre and Almeida Theatre; for a number of theaters in Japan, where he received the 2007 Kikuta Kazuo Theatre Award for Special Achievement in Japanese Theatre; and Stockholm’s Dramaten. His Aida has been seen at Welsh National Open in both Cardiff and Birmingham; his La bohème has been seen at Canadian Opera Company and San Francisco Opera; and this production of Tosca has also been seen at Los Angeles Opera and Lyric Opera of Chicago. Last year, he directed a new production of Parsifal at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Recently, Caird’s production of the new play McQueen was seen at London’s St. James Theater and the Haymarket, West End. The musical Daddy Long Legs, for which Caird wrote the libretto, was performed Off-Broadway last fall. Omer Ben Seadia (Israel) The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Director Emerging Israeli director Omer Ben Seadia is making her HGO directorial debut. Other credits at HGO include assistant directing Madame Butterfly, The Marriage of Figaro, and Tosca. Later this season, Ben Seadia will join the faculty of HGO’s Young Artists Vocal Academy as well as the Merola Opera Program. Her directing credits include L’italiana in Algeri, A Streetcar Named Desire, Così fan tutte, Don Pasquale, The Golden Vanity, Der Kaiser von Atlantis, Brundibár, Le docteur Miracle, and Saint John’s Passion as well as touring productions for Cincinnati Opera and Dayton Opera. In addition to her work at HGO, Ben Seadia has been on staff at the Israeli Opera, Cincinnati Opera, Portland Opera, and the International Vocal Arts Institute. She is a graduate of the opera directing program at the Cincinnati College–Conservatory of Music, the Merola Opera Program, and Seminar Ha’Kibutzim School of Performing Arts. 7 • www.woodlandscenter.org
Bunny Christie (United Kingdom) Set and Costume Designer Bunny Christie’s designs were seen previously at HGO in the 2009 world premiere of André Previn’s Brief Encounter and in Tosca in 2010 and 2015. Her extensive work for the National Theatre in London includes Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, which transferred to the West End and Broadway and for which she earned Olivier and Tony Awards for Best Set Design. She has also won Olivier Awards for The White Guard and A Streetcar Named Desire, and an Evening Standard Award for Baby Doll, all at the National. Other theater work includes the allfemale Julius Caesar and Henry IV at the Donmar Warehouse. She recently designed Made in Dagenham at The Adelphi Theatre with Rupert Goold, and has designed People, Places, and Things and Husbands and Sons, both of which opened at the National Theatre this fall. Her work in opera also includes Medea for the English National Opera. Film work includes Swan Song, directed by Kenneth Branagh and starring John Gielgud, which was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Short Film. Duane Schuler (United States) Original Lighting Designer Duane Schuler’s work encompasses opera, ballet, and theater. For HGO, he has lit numerous productions since 1973, most recently Tosca, Così fan tutte, Don Giovanni, Fidelio, Ariadne auf Naxos, and Cavalleria rusticana/ Pagliacci. His lighting designs for the Metropolitan Opera include the world premieres of John Harbison’s The Great Gatsby and Tan Dun’s The First Emperor, as well as 24 other productions. He has designed more than 140 productions at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, including last season’s Don Giovanni and its recent premiere of Jimmy López’s Bel Canto. Theater credits include House and Garden, Last Dance, and A Picasso (Manhattan Theatre Club); The Royal Family (Ahmanson Theatre, Los Angeles); and The Importance of Being Earnest on Broadway. Upcoming productions include Norma (Los Angeles Opera), The Marriage of Figaro (Seattle Opera), Beatrice and Benedict (Glyndebourne), and Cendrillon (Metropolitan Opera). Schuler is a founding partner of Schuler Shook, a theater planning and architectural lighting design firm. Michael James Clark (United States) Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Lighting Designer Michael James Clark is the lighting supervisor for HGO. Earlier this season, he served as lighting designer for the HGO Studio’s annual scenes program, Studio Showcase, and the HGOco world premieres of Gregory Spears and Royce Vavrek’s O Columbia and David Hanlon and Stephanie Fleischmann’s After the Storm. He was lighting realizer for The Little Prince. He has designed lighting at HGO for numerous productions, including Otello, Die Fledermaus, Aida, La bohème, Il trovatore, La traviata, The Rape of Lucretia, The Marriage of Figaro, and the world premiere of Cruzar la Cara de la Luna, and outdoor productions of The Magic Flute, Die Fledermaus, La bohème, Madame Butterfly, Tosca, and Rigoletto. He has also frequently designed lighting for Concert of Arias. Clark was a member of the lighting department at The Santa Fe Opera for seven seasons. For Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music, he lit Stephen Sondheim’s A Little Night Music and The Coronation of Poppea. He holds a bachelor’s degree in lighting design from North Carolina School of the Arts.
Houston Grand Opera Biographies Continued Leraldo Anzaldúa (United States) Fight Director Leraldo Anzaldúa is a Houston-based actor, director, and fight director. He is a certified teacher of stage combat with the Society of American Fight Directors and has served as fight director at HGO on such recent productions as Carousel, Tosca, Otello, Carmen, Rigoletto, Aida, Show Boat, and the American premiere of The Passenger. Other Houston companies with which he has worked include the Alley Theatre, Stages Repertory Theatre, Ensemble Theatre, Classical Theatre Company, and Catastrophic Theatre. He has done voice-over work for the video game Starship Troopers: Mobile Infantry and in anime as Ken/G-1 in Gatchaman, Zed in Kiba, Takashi in High School of the Dead Halo Legends, Noda in Angel Beats, and more than 100 others. He has also done voice-over work with ADVision Studios/Sentai Filmworks. Internationally, he has worked on the Sony Pictures films Appleseed Alpha and Starship Troopers: Invasion in Tokyo, Japan; and has been motion capture fight director and talent for several video games.
Denise Tarrant (United States)
Richard Bado (United States)
Kelly Kaduce (United States) Soprano–Tosca Kelly Kaduce sang performances of the title role in Tosca last fall at HGO; previously, she performed Katya in the American premiere of The Passenger (2014), Helmwige in Die Walküre (2015), and Micaela in Carmen in HGO’s 2014 concert performance at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands. Her engagements this season include singing Mimì in La bohème with Boston Lyric Opera and creating the role of Wendy in Paul Moravec’s The Shining with Minnesota Opera. Prior engagements include Katya in The Passenger with Lyric Opera of Chicago; Cio-Cio-San with Canadian Opera Company, Florida Grand Opera, West Australian Opera, Minnesota Opera, and Santa Fe Opera; Blanche in Dialogues of the Carmelites with Opera Theatre of Saint Louis; the title role of Manon Lescaut with Minnesota Opera; Rosalinde in Die Fledermaus with Lyric Opera of Kansas City; Liù in Turandot with Utah Opera; Anne Sorenson in Kevin Puts’s Silent Night with Opera Philadelphia; Nedda in Pagliacci for Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, Arizona Opera Company, Cincinnati Opera, Opera Omaha, and Florida Grand Opera; the title role in Rusalka with L’Opéra de Montréal and Opera Colorado; and many others.
The Sarah and Ernest Butler Chorus Master Chair Chorus Master Richard Bado has served as HGO’s chorus master since 1988 and was concurrently the company’s head of music staff from 1991 to 2005. The HGO Studio alumnus (1984–85) conducted Carousel this spring at HGO; previously he conducted HGO tours of Show Boat (Cairo Opera House in Egypt, 1989) and Robert Wilson’s production of Four Saints in Three Acts (Edinburgh Festival, 1996). He received HGO’s Silver Rose Award in 2013, in honor of his 25th anniversary as chorus master. He has conducted for La Scala, Opéra National de Paris, New York City Opera, the Aspen Music Festival, Tulsa Opera, the Russian National Orchestra, the Florida Philharmonic, the Montreal Symphony, Wolf Trap Opera, and Houston Ballet. An accomplished pianist, Bado recently appeared in an Australian recital tour with Renée Fleming. He has also played for Cecilia Bartoli, Frederica von Stade, Susan Graham, Denyce Graves, Marcello Giordani, Ramón Vargas, Samuel Ramey, Jamie Barton, Ryan McKinny, and Nathan Gunn. He is the director of the opera studies program at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music. Karen Reeves (United States) Children’s Chorus Director Karen Reeves has prepared the Houston Grand Opera Children’s Chorus and child soloists since 1991, for such operas as Tosca, Otello, Carmen, La bohème, Dead Man Walking, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Hansel and Gretel. This season she also directed the Children’s Chorus for The Little Prince, as she did for the opera’s world premiere at HGO in 2003 and its revival in 2004. She was a member of the Houston Grand Opera Chorus for 13 seasons, and during the 1999–2000 season, she became the founding director of the HGO High School Voice Studio, now called the Bauer Family High School Voice Studio. She received her bachelor of music degree from Southwestern University and her master of music degree from Rice University. She taught on the voice faculty at Houston Baptist University, and for more than 20 years she taught in the voice department of Houston’s High School for the Performing and Visual Arts as an artist consultant. She is the administrator for the opera program of the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University.
The Sarah and Ernest Butler Concertmaster Chair A native of Texas, Denise Tarrant started her professional violin career at the age of 16 with the Midland Odessa (Texas) Symphony. Afterward she studied at the University of Houston, Rice University, Trinity University (London), and the Royal College of Music (London). She became HGO’s concertmaster under the baton of Patrick Summers in 1999. Highlights of her work here include the world premieres of Carlisle Floyd’s Cold Sassy Tree (2000) and Tod Machover’s Resurrection (1999), Catán’s Florencia en el Amazonas (2001), and Carlisle Floyd’s Of Mice and Men (2002), all of which were released on CD by Albany Records, and the world premiere of Rachel Portman’s The Little Prince (2003). She further performed in the HGO world premieres of Jake Heggie’s The End of the Affair (2004) and Three Decembers (2008); Catán’s Salsipuedes (2004), Mark Adamo’s Lysistrata (2005), André Previn’s Brief Encounter (2009), and Carlisle Floyd’s Prince of Players (2016). She performed onstage as the solo violinist in Julius Caesar in 2003.
May 2016 • 8
Houston Grand Opera Biographies Continued Chad Shelton (United States) Tenor–Cavaradossi HGO Studio alumnus Chad Shelton (1997–2000) appeared earlier this season in performances of Cavaradossi in Tosca and as Charles II in the world premiere of Carlisle Floyd’s Prince of Players. Previous HGO roles include Froh in Das Rheingold and Fredrik Egerman in A Little Night Music (2014); Don José in performances of Carmen (2006, 2014); Alfredo in La traviata (2012); and Tamino in The Magic Flute (2004). He also originated the roles of Nico in Mark Adamo’s Lysistrata (2005), Ulises in Daniel Catán’s Salsipuedes (2004), and Laurie in Adamo’s Little Women (1998, 2000). This season, he made his Metropolitan Opera debut as Rodrigo in Otello, performed in the Met’s Elektra, and sang Alfredo with Pensacola Opera. Recent engagements include Jack in The Importance of Being Earnest, the title roles in Idomeneo and Candide, Giasone in Medea, Don José, Lechmere in Owen Wingrave, Lysander in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Guido Bardi in A Florentine Tragedy, and Tamino (Opéra National de Lorraine); Erik in The Flying Dutchman (Boston Lyric Opera); and Prince in The Love of Three Oranges and Tamino (Grand Théâtre de Genève). With San Diego Opera, he sang Chairman Mao in Nixon in China—a role he will reprise next season at HGO. Weston Hurt (United States) Baritone—Scarpia Baritone Weston Hurt sang Scarpia in performances of Tosca for his HGO debut this past fall. Engagements for the 2015–16 season also included his debut at the New Orleans Opera as Germont in La traviata, Talbot in Mary Stuart with Seattle Opera, and Iago in Otello with the Boston Youth Symphony. He appears regularly with many North American opera companies including the Seattle Opera, Dallas Opera, Portland Opera, Boston Lyric Opera, Atlanta Opera, Michigan Opera Theater, Lyric Opera of Kansas City, and Canadian Opera Company. He was also a regular at the New York City Opera before its closure in 2013. His many roles included the title roles in Rigoletto and Nabucco, Renato in Un ballo in maschera, Ford in Falstaff, Sharpless in Madame Butterfly, Germont, Enrico in Lucia di Lammermoor, Frank in Die tote Stadt, and Peter in Hansel and Gretel. Also a prolific concert singer and recitalist, Hurt has performed in recitals sponsored by the Marilyn Horne Foundation and has also performed in concert internationally, including a South American tour of the Brahms Ein deutsches Requiem. He has recently performed with the Nashville Symphony, the Dallas Symphony, and the Oratorio Society of New York at Carnegie Hall.
9 • www.woodlandscenter.org
Federico De Michelis (Argentina) Beth Madison Fellow Bass-Baritone—Angelotti Born in Buenos Aires, first-year HGO Studio artist Federico De Michelis won third prize in the 2015 Eleanor McCollum Competition Concert of Arias. Earlier this season, he sang performances of Angelotti in Tosca, Zaretsky in Eugene Onegin, the King in The Little Prince, Antonio in The Marriage of Figaro, and Thomas Betterton in the world premiere of Carlisle Floyd’s Prince of Players. He was previously a member of the Opera Studio of Teatro Argentino de La Plata, where he performed Antonio in Il viaggio a Reims, El Hombre Mayor in Gerardo Gandini’s contemporary opera Ciudad Ausente, Johann in Werther, Narrator from Rota’s I due timidi, Don Alfonso in Così fan tutte, Plutone in Il ballo dell’ingrate, and Tempo from Il ritorno d’Ulisse in patria. This summer, he will sing Colline in La bohème at the Aspen Music Festival. Kyle Albertson (United States) Bass-Baritone—Sacristan Kyle Albertson made his HGO main-stage debut as the Sacristan in Tosca last fall after singing Mr. Rodriguez in HGOco’s Past the Checkpoints (2014). This season’s engagements include singing the Sergeant of Police in The Pirates of Penzance at Atlanta Opera, and Bartolo in The Barber of Seville and Lyndon B. Johnson in the workshop of David T. Little’s new opera JFK with Fort Worth Opera. Recent seasons included engagements with the Metropolitan Opera as Masetto in Don Giovanni and in productions of The Marriage of Figaro, The Magic Flute, Dialogues of the Carmelites, The Merry Widow, and Manon; the Verdi Requiem with the Handel Society of Dartmouth; a Dallas Opera debut as Zuniga in Carmen; Papageno in Boston Youth Symphony’s concert performance of The Magic Flute at Symphony Hall; his first Sweeney Todd with Syracuse Opera; Rucker Lattimore in Cold Sassy Tree with Sugar Creek Opera Festival; and the Prison Warden in Dead Man Walking, Hobson in Peter Grimes, and the Duke in Roméo et Juliette with Des Moines Metro Opera. Chris Bozeka (United States) Dr. Ellen R. Gritz and Milton D. Rosenau Jr. Fellow Tenor—Spoletta Chris Bozeka, a first-year artist with the HGO Studio, won second prize in the 2015 Eleanor McCollum Competition Concert of Arias. During the past season, he performed the Drunkard/the Lamplighter in The Little Prince, Don Curzio in The Marriage of Figaro, Huntsman in Rusalka, and Male Emilia in the world premiere of Carlisle Floyd’s Prince of Players. He earned his master’s degree at the University of Cincinnati College– Conservatory of Music, where he appeared as Nemorino in The Elixir of Love, Ernesto in Don Pasquale, and the Narrator in Owen Wingrave. He sang the role of Goro and a late-notice performance of Pinkerton in Madame Butterfly with the Castleton Festival and last summer appeared as Rinuccio in Gianni Schicchi with the San Francisco Opera Merola Program. This summer, he will make his Glimmerglass Opera debut as Pirelli in Sweeney Todd.
Houston Grand Opera Biographies Continued Alex Rosen (United States) Bass—Sciarrone Californian Alex Rosen is making his HGO debut. He is a first-year candidate for the artist diploma in opera studies at The Juilliard School; he also studied at the Peabody Conservatory (bachelor’s degree) and Shepherd School of Music at Rice University (master’s degree). With Rice’s Hear&Now ensemble, Rosen sang George Crumb’s Songs, Drones, and Refrains of Death. He premiered the role of Lyndon B. Johnson in Joshua Bornfield’s Camelot Requiem and appeared in the premiere of the opera Nothing in the Nothingness by Rice graduate Daniel Zajicek. With Wolf Trap Opera, he sang Antonio in The Marriage of Figaro and Curio in Giulio Cesare. With the Peabody Conservatory, he sang Bottom in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the Marquis de la Force in Dialogues des Carmélites, and the Commendatore in Don Giovanni. At Rice, he sang Peter Quince in A Midsummer Night’s Dream; Don Basilio in The Barber of Seville; and Tempo, Nettuno, and Antinoo in Il ritorno d’Ulisse in patria. Saïd Henry Pressley (United States) Bass-Baritone—Jailer This past season, New York native Saïd Henry Pressley sang the Jailer in Tosca (HGO main-stage debut) and performed Hyde in the world premiere of Carlisle Floyd’s Prince of Players. For HGOco, he has appeared in the world premiere of The Pastry Prince and as the King and Stepsister Isabella in Cinderella in Spain. He recently received his master’s degree from The Juilliard School. Previous roles include Presto in Les mamelles de Tirésias, Simone/Maestro Spinelloccio in Gianni Schicchi, and Wu Tianshi in the American premiere of Peter Maxwell Davies’s Kommilitonen! with Juilliard Opera; and Don Alfonso in Così fan tutte, Sebastian in the world premiere recording of Lee Hoiby’s The Tempest, Balthazar in Amahl and the Night Visitors, and Sarastro in The Magic Flute with Purchase Opera. Pressley received first prize in the Tony and Sally Amato Opera competition (2010) and second prize in the Harlem Opera Theater Competition (2013). Jacqueline Hickman (United States) Treble—A Young Shepherd Jacqueline Hickman made her HGO debut in a named role in 2013 as Young Kim in Show Boat and performed A Young Shepherd in Tosca last fall. She has performed with the HGO Children’s Chorus in The Magic Flute, Otello, and Carmen, and was a child soloist in La bohème. She has also performed in the children’s chorus for Wozzeck with the Houston Symphony as well as small roles with the Shepherd School of Music opera program at Rice University and at Masquerade Theatre. She has previously been featured as a vocalist in master classes with renowned child voice pedagogue Robert Edwin and Broadway casting director Dave Clemmons. Jacqueline is a student at Lanier Middle School in Houston and is active as a Girl Scout Cadette and Mariner.
May 2016 • 10
Houston Grand Opera Management and Staff
Patrick Summers, Artistic and Music Director* Margaret Alkek Williams Chair
Perryn Leech Managing Director Gregory S. Robertson Chief Advancement Officer*
Molly Dill David Feheley Deborah Hirsch Judith Kurnick General Manager * Technical and Production Director Senior Director of Development Director of Communications Bradley Moore Brian Speck Diane Zola Head of Music Staff Director of HGO Studio Director of Artistic Administration * Music Director, HGO Studio Mr. and Mrs. Albert B. Alkek Chair Office of the General Director Dawn Gillespie, Governance and Business Manager Tamara Johnson, Executive Assistant Bob Lilly, Executive Assistant
Advancement Services Robin Lewis, Development Data Manager M. Jane Orosco, Marketing Data Manager * Joanna Torok, Director of Advancement Operations Justine Welch, Development Operations Manager
Finance and Administration Maria J. Blake, Systems Manager* Henry Cantu, Staff Accountant * Luis Franco, Office Services Coordinator * Denise Fruge, Accounts Payable Administrator * Matt Gonzales, Database Administrator Debbie Loper, Payroll Administrator * Tanya Lovetro, Director of Finance Ken Vaughn, Director of Information Systems * Lee Whatley, Director of Business Analytics * Melissa Williford, Director of Human Resources *
Communications Laura Chandler, Director of Publications * Christine Lee, Communications Manager Gracie Padron, Graphic Designer Ashley Seals, Communications Coordinator Pattima Singhalaka, Art Director
Development Rudy Avelar, Director of Patron Services* Kristina Bergeron, Associate Director of Development Richard Buffett, Director of Major Gifts and Legacy Planning Ashley Coffey, Development Information Manager Kelly Finn, Director of Development, Institutional Giving Clare Greene, Associate Director of Special Events Scott Ipsen, Director of Special Events David Krohn, Associate Director of Development Patrick Mühlen-Schulte, Development Officer Andrea Richardson, Special Events Coordinator Denise Simon, Special Events Operations Manager Jim Townsend, Development Communications Manager Andrea Ward, Annual Giving Officer Jennifer Wijangco, Director of Development, Individual Giving Marketing Kelly Laning, Director of Marketing Cynthia Lewis, Team Lead * Raquel Meyer, Marketing Manager Jacob Millwee, Team Lead Daniel Taylor, Audience Development Manager Richard Wong, Director of Sales and Services * 11 • www.woodlandscenter.org
The Genevieve P. Demme Archives and Resource Center Brian Mitchell, Archivist* HGOco Dennis Arrowsmith, Touring and Ensembles Manager Brittany Duncan, Programs Director Julie Hurley, HGOco Stage Manager Wesley Landry, Bauer Family High School Voice Studio Manager Jason Lester, Bauer Family High School Voice Studio Director of Vocal Studies Stacey Michael, Operations Manager Artistic/Music Richard Bado, Chorus Master * Richard S. Brown, Orchestra Personnel Manager * Jamie Gelfand, Artistic and Rehearsal Coordinator Carolyne Hall, Associate Company Manager Patrick Harvey, Assistant Conductor Paul Hopper, Dramaturg Daniel James, Music Administrator Mark C. Lear, Associate Artistic Administrator * Aspen McArthur, Music Librarian Lisa Oswald, Company Manager Peter Pasztor, Assistant Conductor * Karen Reeves, Children’s Chorus Director * Kelsey Sapp, Artistic and Rehearsal Coordinator Emily Senturia, Assistant Conductor/ Assistant Chorus Master Christopher Turbessi, Assistant Conductor/ Musical Supervisor of HGOco
Houston Grand Opera Studio Jeremy Johnson, Administrator Technical/Production Philip Alfano, Lighting Associate Katrina Bachus, Assistant Director Kristen E. Burke, Production Stage Manager Michael Clark, Lighting Supervisor Andrew Cloud, Properties Associate * Stephanie Corley, Technical Assistant/Driver Norma Cortez, Head of Costumes * Kyle Coyer, Assistant Technical Director Esmeralda De Leon, Costume Coordinator Brandon Dismukes, Production Master Carpenter * Meg Edwards, Assistant Stage Manager Mary Elsey, Assistant Stage Manager Zoltan Fabry, Master Propertyman * Vince Ferraro, Assistant Master Electrician/ Lighting Board Programmer Jennifer Hobart Gummi, Technical/ Production Administrator Ed Hamala, Assistant Carpenter/Head Flyman Eduardo Hawkins, Head Soundman * Clair Hummel, Costume Coordinator Julie Hurley, Assistant Stage Manager Nara Lesser, Costume Technician Megan, Properties Design Director * Liz Petley, Assistant Stage Manager Albert Pike, Master Electrician * Mercedes Ramirez, Draper * Evelyn Rossow, Assistant Stage Manager Maria Luisa Salinas, Costume Technician Logan Schoenbaechler, Assistant Technical Director Omer Ben Seadia, Assistant Director Dotti Staker, Wig and Makeup Department Head * Christopher Staub, Stage Manager/ Assistant Stage Manager Paully Lea Tran, Costume Technician Myrna Vallejo, Costume Shop Supervisor * Sean Waldron, Assistant Head of Properties Annie Wheeler, Stage Manager/ Assistant Stage Manager * denotes 10 or more years of service
DRESS THE PART & SING-A-LONG
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8 p.m. / Doors: 6:30 p.m. $15 orchestra $10 mezzanine $5 lawn
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281-363-3300
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Tickets can be purchased at The Pavilion Box Office, by calling 800-745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
2016 PERFORMING ARTS SEASON SPONSORS official automobile of The Pavilion
official airline of The Pavilion
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion acknowledges the financial support of The Woodlands Township generated by the Event Admissions Tax for its performing arts and educational programs.
May 2016 • 12
Making the Grade
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion’s educational programs are an integral part of the Mission for the venue. The annual Musical Scores event provides an incentive for local schools to motivate students in grades six through nine to perform well academically and behaviorally. These goals might include specific academic accomplishments, improving attendance, book-reading objectives, raising test scores, modifying classroom behavior among others. Those students who successfully achieved their goal, or “musical scores” were rewarded with a trip to The Pavilion on May 18. Over 5,000 students from 33 schools across 13 districts attended the 2016 event. The program consisted of motivational speaker, Greg “Grego” Onofrio of Channel 39’s Newsfix, an entertaining performance from AcroDunk, complimentary lunches and t-shirts as well as words of praise and encouragement from mentors. Through generous sponsorships from Wells Fargo, Aramark, The Container Store, Anadarko Petroleum, Keith and Sandra Winters, Entergy, AON Hewitt, Fred & Sheryl Greene, Kroger, Chick-fil-a, Pepsi, The Pavilion Partners, United Airlines and NewFix CW39, The Pavilion is able to provide a free lunch and complimentary t-shirts to all students in attendance. Additionally, for Title 1 schools, The Pavilion is able to offer subsidized bus transportation to ensure each local school can attend the motivational program. America’s favorite dunk team, AcroDunk provided high energy and inspirational entertainment for the students in attendance. “Don’t ever let someone tell you that you can’t, you won’t or you’ll never. If someone tells you that, you tell them I can, I will and watch me,” stated Greg Mueller, member and emcee for the AcroDunks. As an added component, The Pavilion offers an opportunity for students to design the official Musical Scores t-shirt that is given to every student in attendance. This year, The Pavilion judges chose La’Jasha Champion’s design from Carver High School in Aldine School District. Students are able to utilize their creativity and talent to potentially see their design made into a t-shirt. 13 • www.woodlandscenter.org
F u n d ing the F u t u re of
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion’s Mission provides an opportunity to support young artists as they pursue college degrees in the arts through The Pavilion Partners Fine Arts Scholarship program. Scholarships are awarded annually to high school seniors based on talent and academic performance within the following five disciplines: dance, instrumental music, theatre arts, visual/graphic arts and vocal music.
Scholarship funds are raised by Partners throughout the year and specifically through the annual Wine Dinner and Pre-Concert Fundraiser. Co-chair for the scholarship committee, Lisa Koetting says, “Fundraising for the scholarship program has been extremely successful the last few years thanks to the collaborative efforts of the committee and Pavilion staff.” The rigorous application process consists of student response essays, transcript and test score evaluation as well as a teacher or instructor recommendation letter. Committee members score the completed application which contributes to 20 percent of the student’s overall score. In 2016, The Pavilion Partners received a record 97 applications for new scholarships.
Each student applicant is also required to audition in their respective discipline. Industry professionals, who volunteer their time, judge the auditions. Koetting says, “The final score is heavily weighted on the auditions as it contributes to 80 percent of the final score.” From there, students are awarded scholarship amounts based on their final scores. This year, Partners were able to award 33 new scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $7,500. The scholarship recipients represent fourteen high schools across eight school districts. New recipients were honored during a ceremony on April 25. Students are able to apply for a renewal scholarship for up to four years as long as they are in good standing with their school and majoring in a fine arts discipline. In 2016, The Pavilion Partners organization awarded $159,000 for new and renewed scholarships. Koetting concluded, “Pursuing a career in fine arts can be daunting because you’re not always guaranteed a high paying job immediately out of school. Co-chairing this committee has been extremely rewarding because I’m able to witness these kids recognize their passion and dreams in fine arts.”
For more information about scholarships, email pavilionpartnersscholarship@yahoo.com or call 281-210-1119. Information can also be found at https://www.woodlandscenter. org/scholarships.
2016 Fine Arts Scholarship Recipients Kimberly Blaha– Instrumental Music, Tomball Memorial High School *Scholarship Honoring Sol Sachs
Caroline Booth– Vocal Music, College Park High School Nicholas Bussell– Instrumental Music, Conroe High School Madison Chamberlain– Visual/Graphic Arts, The Woodlands High School Jorge Galvan– Instrumental Music, MacArthur High School Madeleine Hayes– Theatre Arts, Willis High School Annmarie Janning– Instrumental Music, College Park High School Katherine Kelso– Theatre Arts, The Woodlands High School *Scholarship Honoring Sol Sachs
Madison Mackey– Vocal Music, Tomball Memorial High School * The George and Cynthia Mitchell Memorial Scholarship
Maecey Malone– Dance, College Park High School *Scholarship Honoring The Founding Members
Laura Marriott– Dance, College Park High School Moriah Martinez– Instrumental Music, MacArthur High School Madeline McCoy– Instrumental Music, The Woodlands High School Sarah Meyer– Visual/Graphic Arts, Tomball Memorial High School Margaret Miesch– Vocal Music, Magnolia High School Matthew Newhouse– Vocal Music, Conroe High School *The Vince Caracio Memorial Scholarship
Carleigh Newland– Theatre Arts, Klein Collins High School Christopher Orr– Vocal Music, Montgomery High School Katia Osorio– Instrumental Music, Dekaney High School Dylan Payne– Dance, College Park High School *Scholarship Honoring Randy Lowry
Teresa Pham– Visual/Graphic Arts, Tomball Memorial High School Brittney Reddix– Theatre Arts, Westfield High School Tierre Robinson– Theatre Arts, Westfield High School Evan Rogers– Instrumental Music, Oak Ridge High School Justin Stobart– Instrumental Music, College Park High School *Scholarship Honoring Nancy and Casey Kosh
Leah Stonecipher– Visual/Graphic Arts, The Woodlands High School Anna Strickland– Theatre Arts, The Woodlands High School Ephraim Tallerine– Theatre Arts, Klein Forest High School *The Nancy Bock Memorial Scholarship
Angelica Villa– Dance, G.W. Carver High School Carlos Villatoro– Instrumental Music, Dekaney High School Gabrielle Walter– Visual/Graphic Arts, Magnolia High School *Scholarship Honoring Nancy and Casey Kosh
Kyle Ward– Theatre Arts, G.W. Carver High School Samantha Winkler– Instrumental Music, Tomball Memorial High School
May 2016 • 14
Volunteer Spotlight the community, making a difference in the community and bringing the arts to our community. There is time and work involved with my volunteering for Partners, but it’s been one of the most rewarding things I have done.”
While Lisa Koetting and family are originally from Michigan, since 1991, they have called The Woodlands home. She said, “We’ve lived in Texas longer than anywhere else, this is home.” Koetting has spent her career as a CPA and active volunteer. It was only natural her skills and tenacity would be noticed by The Pavilion Partners, the official volunteer organization of The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.
Over the last 6+ years, Koetting has co-chaired the scholarship committee but is now stepping down to focus her efforts on the Wine Dinner. She said, “The symbiosis of the two committees is helpful as the Wine Dinner funds the scholarship program. I have truly enjoyed working on both committees and look forward to the growth of both from here.”
Koetting was called by friend and fellow Partner, Keith Ferry to assist on the scholarship committee due to her experience in a similar scholarship program she ran at her children’s school. Koetting said, “In order for me to serve on the committee, I needed to make the commitment to be a Partner and once I learned about the good things they do in the community, it was an easy call to join.” Koetting’s favorite memories stem from her work on committees with Pavilion staff and other Partners. She stated, “We are all passionate about touching
If you are interested in becoming a Pavilion Partner, visit www.woodalndscenter.org/about-partners or contact Leslie Williams at lwilliams@woodlandscenter.org. To learn more about The Pavilion Partner scholarship program visit: https://www.woodlandscenter.org/scholarships.
2016 Members of The Pavilion P art ners $1,000 Candi & Gerald Glenn Alison & Rich Henderson Amy & Jonathan Homeyer Ed Jones Whitney & Derek McCoy Tricia & Jerry MacDonald Sara & Randy Ortwein Vicki & Michael Richmond Paul Taylor $500 Annette & Kenneth Hallock Amy & Jeff Kaszak Terry & Ray Larson Amy & Keith Odom $250 Nancy Battle Cynthia & Ronald Brandt Deborah Butler Beth & Doug Grijalva Karen & Gary Lach Judith & Charles Lano $100 Chardelle & George Adelson Melissa & Bernardo Aguayo Susan & Darrell Bach Nancy & Mike Becker Nell & Ed Belanger Roberta & Ed Bergemann Debbie & Danny Black Melissa Black & Susy Pardillo Robin & Jim Booth Joy & James Borneman
Brenda Eames & Alan Braaten Sharon & Tom Bowen Carol & Tom Buffa Perisha & Jeremy Burnham Annabelle & Chris Carrillo Barbara & Regan Chambers Patsy & Namen Chambliss Julia & Edmund Chapman Sean Kenneth Connelly Gaye & Bill Craig Andria & Gabe Cuellar Debra & Matt Dozier Linda & Rob Eissler Keith & Grady Ferry Mary-Lou & Gary Fitch Lisa & Al Fittipaldi Beth & Greg Folks Angela & Mark Gott Robin & Mike Griffith Dana Hahn & Jason Podsednik Patricia Harrison & Frank Radik Susan & Chris Harte Janene & Rick Hemmen Amy Jackson & Paul Herman Freda Thomas & Nathaniel Holt Monica & Jon Hoover Connie & Bob Horton Vicki Huebler & Debbie Stofcheck Judy & Richard Jones Minda & Jon Joslin Rosie & Bill Kelly Beth & Bruce Krantz Conchita & Eric Ladwig Linda & Irv Lichtman Karen & James Listak
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Christina & Jose Lozano Nancy & Terrance Mahan Christine & William McBee Estelle & Mark McLaughlin Shelli Moran & Justin Styles Rachel Mulkey & Zach Richmond Dalinda & Brien O’Donal Mr. and Mrs. Michael O’Neil Jeannie & Bernie Otten Melissa & Brian Pate Karen & Lance Portman Joyce & Ken Reynolds Margie & Keith Richardson Arlene & Sol Sachs Nancy & Steve Sandstrum Ann & Dane Sever Brandi & James Spurgin Chrystal & Don Tamillo Ellen & Nat Turner Paula & Benny Van Osdell Eileen & Gilbert Withers Traci & Mark Zeller $50 Ashley Adriance Robert Arend Alana Ashley Laura Ashley Vicki Baird Melissa Barksdale Cleo Barry Judith Bartok Bunny Benditz Stephanie Beridon Audrey Bernhoft
Bruce Bernhoft James Bibis Michelle Bridges Helen Burwell Beth Butler Debbie Cain Julie Camacho Sylvia Caracio Gordon Carruth Simone Chiang Jim Cicero Candis Cooper Michael Cozart Debra Cruz June Cullum Rose Davis Lee Deskus Charles Dougherty Ruth Dowden Kelly Edmonds Sarah Epley Beverly Fennessy Jane Fisher Sylvia Forbes Caroline Garrett Viorica & Ion Ghica Siriwan Goodwin Careen Gregory Linda Gulledge Lori Guyette Susan Harte Tandi Hodges Lynn Hullinger Michelle Huser Marlies Iida
Theresa Jensen Lisa Johnson Valerie Johnston John Kanai Letty Kelley Donna King Cindy Kirk Deborah Kline Lisa Koetting Jose Leal Cindy Lentz Karen Lewis Cameron Lorenz Linda Mallet Melinda Martin David Mayes James Mayo Debbie McCarthy Sydney Mark Brian McCulloch Jane McKetta Ann Moore Myron Murphy Ronn NaQuin Janlyn Nentwig Diane Nielsen Betty Nelson Linda Newbold Nora Norman Cindy Notarainni Madeleine Nutt Nancy Pearsall Larry Perry Nancy Phillips Liz Regan
Al Rice Rhonda Richardson Dwana Ricks Mathew Risley John Robichau Marinella Roger Lori Rubel Andrea Saldaña Sharon Schilling Leigh Schoner David Schottle Kim Shin David Smith Ronald Smith Stacy Spitzmueller Suzann Staats Chris Steinke Kim Stetler Candace Strang Stephanie Teed Ben Thomas Maria Valenzuela Connie Wagner Edward Walsh Carol Watkins Jeannie Williams David Wilson Gene Wolfson Jamie Youngblood As of Print Deadline
Sponsor Spotlight In each issue of OnStage, we turn the spotlight onto one of our sponsors, a gesture of thanks for their invaluable contributions to the many things we work hard to accomplish.
Local Support For Local Arts; Mercedes Benz of The Woodlands Sponsors The Performing Arts at The Pavilion
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion and Mercedes Benz of The Woodlands are proud to announce their partnership for the 2016 performing arts season. With a newly opened 60,000 sq. ft. dealership in The Woodlands, Mercedes Benz of The Woodlands is aiming to give back to the local community.
Milner and Agresti have aimed to instill their values of giving back to the community in many ways, including supporting The Pavilion’s nonprofit mission. Mercedes Benz of The Woodlands also provides paid time off to employees who volunteer locally, creating not only time, but incentive for their employees to get involved.
Co-owned by Bob Milner and Joe Agresti, Mercedes Benz of The Woodlands has been recognized as a “Best of the Best” dealer by Mercedes. However, it isn’t just their friendly customer service that helps set them apart in the community.
Why the partnership with The Pavilion? “That’s easy,” Milner said. “The Pavilion is such a foundational institution to The Woodlands community. It is so engrained in the local culture. For my family, alone, it has been a place where so many memories have been made. It was where my children saw their first opera and it was the place my wife and I traveled back to when we lived in California.”
Since starting his career in the auto industry Bob Milner has always operated on the idea that “those who can give back, should.”
As a growing member of The Woodlands area, Mercedes Benz of The Woodlands was poised to give to the many philanthropic efforts in the area. The Pavilion is thankful for the support that Mercedes Benz of The Woodlands has chosen to give to the performing arts.
“It’s something my dad always taught me,” said Milner. “I didn’t grow up with a lot of money, but my father told me that there is always someone you can help. I remember many holidays serving in soup kitchens as a kid and that has stuck with me over the years.”
Encore The Center for the Performing Arts at The Woodlands would like to thank the following contributors for their financial support of our 2016 Performing Arts Season and Educational Outreach Programs as of April 15 printing deadline. $100,000 - $250,000 Live Nation The Pavilion Partners $50,000 - $75,000 ExxonMobil Huntsman Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands Development Company The Wortham Foundation $25,000 - $49,000 Anadarko Petroleum Corporation Mercedes-Benz of The Woodlands PepsiCo Woodforest National Bank
$15,000 - $24,999 ARAMARK Sports & Entertainment CB&I H-E-B Visit South Walton $10,000 - $14,999 Accenture Comcast FMC Technologies Insperity KPMG, LLC Newfield Exploration Company YMCA- Run Thru The Woods
$5,000 - $9,999 AON Hewitt Efficient Wealth Management Fidelity Investments Sandra & Keith Winters Wells Fargo Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival $2,000 - $4,999 Century 21 Realty Partners City of Shenandoah EMI Renewal by Anderson Sheryl & Fred Greene
Scholarship Donors: Steven Bouck Sylvia Caracio Laurel & Craig Cheyne Charlotte & Rob Cloninger Jacque & Lloyd Everson Alice & Patrick Hynes Mark Scott Alix & Don Muhlbach Arla & Gerald Neuberger Amy & Keith Odom Robert Potter In Kind United Airlines
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion acknowledges the financial support of The Woodlands Township that is generated by the Event Admissions Tax for its performing arts and educational programs. May 2016 • 16
Concert Etiquette The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion offers concertgoers a picturesque setting for live performing arts events featuring world-renowned organizations such as the Houston Symphony, Houston Ballet, Houston Grand Opera and Texas Music Festival Orchestra. The following information about concert etiquette will enhance your visit and help ensure that all of our guests enjoy their arts experience to the fullest. Children The Pavilion is a family-friendly venue and we love to see families at our performing arts events. However, please be courteous of both the orchestra and those around you by keeping youngsters from talking loudly and running around during the performance. Even if you are seated on the hill, loud children can be very distracting for everyone. We want all of our guests to have the most enjoyable concert experience possible. Electronic Devices Take a break from the outside world! Please turn off all cellphones and other audible electronics. Photography and videography are NOT allowed during the performances, including with cellphones, at the request of the artists. Tablets, such as iPads and Kindles, are not permitted into the venue because they are a distraction to other guests and the artists. Late Seating Fashionably late? If you arrive after a performance has started, our ushers will do their best to seat you during an appropriate pause in the program. For certain performances, and at the request of the artist, guests seated in the orchestra section might have to wait until a transition is made between songs to proceed to their seats.
During the Performance Guests should refrain from entering and exiting their seats while a performance is in progress. If you must leave your seat, please proceed quickly and quietly to the nearest aisle or ask the nearest usher for assistance. Please be courteous to other members of the audience. Applause Not sure when to applaud and when not to? A good rule of thumb is to watch the conductor. The conductor should let you know when a piece is over by lowering both arms and turning to face the audience. After the Concert Bravo! As the applause dies down, the performers will put their instruments away and leave the stage. The house lights will be turned on so guests can exit safely. To Picnic, or Not to Picnic? Picnics are welcome at all performing arts events at The Pavilion. Guests can bring in any type of food item; however, beverages can not be brought into the venue. Guests are welcome to bring empty water bottles to fill at water fountains or to purchase beverages at our concessions stands.
Guest Information Tickets Tickets are available at The Pavilion Box Office Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the day of performances through intermission. American Express, MasterCard, VISA and Discover are accepted at The Pavilion Box Office. Tickets also are available at www.ticketmaster.com, all outlets, including Fiesta, select H-E-B and Walmart locations or charge by phone at 800-745-3000. For guests with hearing impairments, Ticketmaster’s TDD number is 800-755-6244. Groups of 20 or more are eligible for discounts for performing arts and selected contemporary events. For information, call 281-210-1127 or visit The Pavilion Box Office. Parking Guests may park free of charge in lighted and patrolled lots adjacent to The Pavilion. Preferred parking is available for all events in the on-site Town Center Garage. For most events, lots open 90 minutes prior to the performance. Food and Beverages Food and beverage items are available from The Pavilion concession areas in the North, South and Lawn plazas. Concessions are operated by ARAMARK Sports & Entertainment. Food can be brought in during all performing arts events; however, beverages are not allowed into the venue. At contemporary events, each guest is permitted to bring in a one gallon plastic bag of food for personal consumption. Restrooms Permanent restrooms are located in all three plazas.
Children For most contemporary events, children 5 and under are admitted free to the lawn without a ticket. At most performing arts events, children are admitted free with their parents to the mezzanine and lawn areas. All children must have a ticket to sit in orchestra-level seating. Inclement Weather All events at The Pavilion are rain or shine. Pavilion events are not canceled due to rain. If it rains on the day of the event, guests are encouraged to wear rain apparel. ATMs ATMs are located in the North, South and Lawn plazas of The Pavilion. Prohibited Items To ensure the enjoyment and safety of all our guests, the following items may not be brought into The Pavilion: Animals, aerosol cans, audio and video equipment, cameras, food, beverages, non-plastic bottles or bottles with lids, fireworks, laptops, laser pointers, lawn chairs, portable televisions, radios, strollers, selfie sticks, tablets (such as iPads and Kindles) and weapons. Cameras and Recording Devices Small, non-professional cameras are usually allowed at most contemporary concerts. No professional, detachable lens cameras are permitted into the venue. No audio or video is permitted at any event at The Pavilion. Camera policies are dictated by the artist and are subject to change. Photography and video, including with cellphones, are NOT allowed at Houston Symphony concerts, Houston Grand Opera or Houston Ballet events at their request.
Lawn Chairs For comfortable hillside seating, guests may bring blankets or use The Pavilion’s specially designed lawn chairs free of charge for all performing arts events.
lost and Found To inquire about lost items, guests may ask a Pavilion staff member for assistance or call The Pavilion Administrative Office during business hours at 281-364-3010.
First Aid Trained medical professionals are on duty at all Pavilion events. If medical help is needed, ask any Pavilion staff member for assistance.
Tours Guided tours of The Pavilion can be arranged for groups by calling 281-364-3010.
Guests with Special Needs The Pavilion is accessible to guests with disabilities. For detailed information, consult our free brochure available at the Information Booths, call 281-364-3010, or visit www.woodlandscenter.org. Information Booths Information booths are located at the gated entrances in the North, South and Lawn plazas. If guests have questions or concerns, they are encouraged to visit Pavilion volunteers who staff the information booths throughout the events.
17 • www.woodlandscenter.org
Special Events The 1,600-square-foot Woodforest Bank Club, located just off The Pavilion’s North Plaza, is available for lease year-round. Outfitted with large video screens, multimedia equipment with surround sound, a copier, fax and dedicated telephone and modem lines, the Club is designed for business meetings and special, private events. For rental information, call 281-363-0900. The House of Blues Lounge in The Pavilion Event Center is open to all ticket-holders at most contemporary concerts. The Ovation Suite and the Encore Suite, also located in The Pavilion Event Center, are additional event spaces with limited rental availability. For more information call 281-210-1106.
ShowTime is a list of events scheduled for The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, including start times and ticket prices. Information is subject to change. Please visit www.woodlandscenter.org for the latest event information. Sublime with Rome
Jimmy Buffet & the Coral Reefer Band
Lynyrd Skynyrd Dixie Chicks
Ray LaMontagne
5 Seconds of Summer
June 4 Jimmy Buffett & the Coral Reefer Band • 8 p.m. June 7
Star Wars & More: A John Williams Tribute • 8 p.m. with the Houston Symphony $20 Orchestra seating / Free Mezzanine & Lawn seating
July 21 DreamWorks Animation™ in Concert • 8 p.m. with The Houston Symphony $20 Orchestra / FREE Mezzanine & Lawn courtesy of Woodforest National Bank
Sept. 2 Music of Rolling Stones • 8 p.m. with the Houston Symphony Brent Havens, conductor
July 23 Pitbull • 7 p.m.
Sept. 5 Fifth Harmony • 7 p.m. with Tribe Society
June 10 Weezer & Panic! at the Disco • 7 p.m. with Andrew McMahon
July 29 Meghan Trainor • 7 p.m. with Hailee Steinfeld
Sept. 8 Goo Goo Dools & Collective Soul • 7 p.m. with Tribe Society
June 11 2nd Annual Boom Bash • 1:30 p.m. featuring Rakim, Run DMC, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, MC Lyte, Naughty By Nature, Monie Love and DJ Quik
July 30 The Bud Light Party Rally: • 3 p.m. Carnival of Madness Featuring Shinedown
Sept. 15
June 12 Boston • 7:30 p.m. with Dennis DeYoung: The Music of Styx June 24 Texas Music Festival Orchestra • 8 p.m. Mei-Ann Chen, conductor FREE Event June 25
93-Q’s A Day in the Country • 1:30 p.m. feat. Dwight Yoakam, Kip Moore, Canaan Smith, Lauren Alaina, Easton Corbin, Jana Kramer, High Valley and Wade Bowen
June 26 Slipknot with Marilyn Manson • 6:30 p.m. and Of Mice and Men June 29 G-Eazy & Logic • 6:30 p.m. with Yo Gatti and YG July 3
Star-Spangled Salute • 8 p.m. with The Houston Symphony Steven Reineke, conductor FREE Event courtesy of The Woodlands Development Corporation
July 5
Twenty One Pilots • 7 p.m.
July 9
Jim Gaffigan • 8 p.m.
July 31 Blink 182 • 7 p.m. Aug. 3 Rob Zombie & Korn • 6:30 p.m. with In This Moment Aug. 4 Lynyrd Skynyrd & Peter Frampton • 7 p.m. Aug. 6 Dixie Chicks • 7 p.m.
Hispanic Heritage Celebration • 8 p.m. with the Houston Symphony Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor $20 Orchestra seating / Free Mezzanine & Lawn seating courtesy of The Wortham Foundation
Sept. 18 5 Seconds of Summer • 7:30 p.m. Sept. 23 Ray LaMontagne • 8 p.m.
Aug. 7 Sublime with Rome and 311 • 5:30 p.m.
Sept. 24 Alabama Shakes • 8 p.m. with Corinne Bailey Rey
Aug. 12 Hank Williams Jr. and Chris Stapleton • 7:15 p.m.
Sept. 25 Counting Crows and Rob Thomas • 6:45 p.m.
Aug. 13 Disturbed & Breaking Benjamin • 6:30 p.m. with Alter Bridge & Saint Asonia
Oct. 7
Aug. 14 Gwen Stefani • 7 p.m. with Eve Aug. 19 Heart • 6:30 p.m. with Joan Jett & the Black Hearts and Cheap Trick Aug. 20 Snoop Dogg & Wiz Khalifa • 7 p.m. Aug. 22 Def Leppard • 7 p.m. with REO Speedwagon and Tesla Aug. 27 Sound of Music Sing-A-Long • 8 p.m. $15 Orchestra / $10 Mezzanine / $5 Lawn seating
Hocus Pocus Pops • 7:30 p.m. with the Houston Symphony $20 Orchestra seating / Free Mezzanine & Lawn seating courtesy of H-E-B
Nov. 12 21st Annual Children’s Festival • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Presented by ExxonMobil $8 in advance / $10 at the door Nov. 13 21st Annual Children’s Festival • Noon to 5 p.m. Presented by ExxonMobil $8 in advance / $10 at the door Dec. 1
Holly Jolly Jingle • 7 p.m. Free courtesy of KPMG,LLP and Woodforest National Bank
Ticket Information Prices do not include service charge. Tickets are available at all outlets, including Fiesta, select H-E-B and Walmart locations and Media Magic, by calling 800-745-3000, or online at www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets also can be purchased at The Pavilion Box Office Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and on event days through intermission. For more information, call 281-363- 3300 or visit www.woodlandscenter.org.
May 2016 • 18
FRIDAY, JUNE 24
Immanuel and Helen Olshan
Texas Music Festival Orchestra
SAT., AUGUST 27
Sound of Music Sing-A-Long 8 p.m. / Doors: 6:30 p.m. $15 orchestra, $10 mezzanine, $5 lawn
8 p.m. / Doors: 7 p.m. Mei Ann Chen, conductor FREE EVENT
FRIDAY, SEPT. 2
SUNDAY, JULY 3
Star-Spangled Salute HOUSTON SYMPHONY 8 p.m. / Doors: 6:30 p.m. Steven Reineke, conductor FREE EVENT courtesy of The Woodlands Development Company
THURS., JULY 21
DreamWorks AnimationTM In Concert HOUSTON SYMPHONY 8 p.m. / Doors: 6:30 p.m. $20 orchestra seating FREE mezzanine & lawn seating courtesy of Anadarko & Woodforest National Bank
Music of The Rolling Stones HOUSTON SYMPHONY 8 p.m. / Doors: 7 p.m. Brent Havens, conductor $20 orchestra seating FREE mezzanine & lawn seating courtesy of Huntsman
THUR., SEPT. 15
Hispanic Heritage Celebration HOUSTON SYMPHONY 8 p.m. / Doors: 7 p.m. Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor $20 orchestra seating FREE mezzanine & lawn seating courtesy of The Wortham Foundation
281-363-3300 app store and Google Play
FRIDAY, OCT. 7
Hocus Pocus Pops HOUSTON SYMPHONY 7:30 p.m. / Doors: 6 p.m. $20 orchestra seating FREE mezzanine & lawn seating courtesy of H-E-B
SAT. & SUN. NOV. 12 & 13
21st Annual Children’s Festival
SAT. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. SUN. noon - 5 p.m. $8 in advance, $10 at the door
THURS., DEC. 1
Holly Jolly Jingle
7 p.m. / Doors: 5:30 p.m. FREE EVENT courtesy of KPMG, LLP & Woodforest National Bank
www.woodlandscenter.org
TICKETS can be purchased at The Pavilion Box Office, by calling 800-745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
2016 PERFORMING ARTS SEASON SPONSORS official automobile of The Pavilion
official airline of The Pavilion
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion acknowledges the financial support of The Woodlands Township generated by the Event Admissions Tax for its performing arts and educational programs.