Velocity Program

ÉTOILE

HOUSTON BALLET GUILD Founded in 1973, Houston Ballet Guild provides vital support to Houston Ballet, its Academy, and special programs. Celebrating their 50th anniversary this season, the Guild provides countless Chairmen and volunteers for the Nutcracker Market each year and, along with other projects, has raised millions of dollars since its inception. The group has underwritten the Sugar Plum Fairy costume in Stanton Welch’s The Nutcracker and Houston Ballet’s bi-annual publication Houston Ballet News . Each year, Houston Ballet Guild volunteers collectively provide more than 5,400 hours of their time to support Houston Ballet.

HOUSTON METHODIST Houston Ballet is proud to have Houston Methodist as its Official Health Care Provider as well as receive the unique benefits provided to the dancers through CPAM – a specialized group of more than 100 elite physicians working collaboratively to address the specific demands placed on performing artists. Recently ranked as the No. 1 hospital in Texas by U.S. News and World Report, Houston Methodist supports Houston Ballet through its philanthropic giving in addition to providing high-quality health care to the dancers. Through the pandemic, Houston Methodist was instrumental in guiding Houston Ballet to ensure the dancers’ health and safety from studio to stage. Additionally, Houston Methodist has been the Presenting Sponsor of Houston Ballet’s performances of The Nutcracker since its 2016 premiere.

THE EVENTS COMPANY Over the past decade, The Events Company has been among the Ballet’s top supporters, particularly helping to grow its financial success for the company. Some of the most notable Ballet Balls include the 2018 Houston Ballet Ball stunningly designed in a one-of-a-kind custom tent immediately following Hurricane Harvey, the 2020 50th Anniversary Ball, the most financially successful in its history, and the most recent 2024 Houston Ballet Ball, a nod to Mayerling, where patrons experienced a jaw dropping transformation of the Wortham Theater Center Grand Foyer. Richard Flowers of The Events Company joined Houston Ballet’s Board of Trustees in the 2018-19 season.

MRS. NANCY FERGUSON HAYWOOD Nancy Haywood has been a devoted supporter of Houston Ballet for over 40 years. A longtime advocate for the Academy, she contributes her expertise as a member of the Academy Committee as part of her 20-year tenure on the Board of Trustees. Nancy was also an original member of the Ambassador Committee, playing a crucial role in recruiting others to champion the Ballet. As a distinguished member of the Arabesque Society, her dedication and commitment to the arts have and will continue to make a lasting impact, enriching Houston Ballet’s community and mission for generations.

ISLA AND T.R. RECKLING Isla and T.R. Reckling have been dedicated supporters of Houston Ballet for over 40 years, a tradition that started when Isla began attending performances with her parents at just 12 years old. Their involvement extends well beyond attending performances; Isla and TR have been actively engaged in various Ballet events, including Nutcracker Market and Ballet Ball. They see Houston Ballet as “magic” and their unwavering support reflects their deep commitment to fostering the arts in Houston.

DEBORAH AND ED KOEHLER Deborah and Ed Koehler, cherished members of the Houston Ballet family, will be honored for their many Ballet contributions at the 2025 Houston Ballet Ball. As longtime supporters, the Koehlers have a deep friendship and admiration of former Principal Dancer Lauren Anderson that has inspired exciting new initiatives. The Lauren Anderson Young Dancer Scholarship Fund provides annual scholarships to underrepresented students. The Lauren Anderson Dance Residency at Ucross Ranch endows an annual residency opportunity for choreographers and dancers. The Koehlers’ dedication to dance and to the Ballet has enriched the Ballet and will continue to inspire the Houston community for generations to come.

KPRC KPRC has been a leader in the Houston community for more than 65 years. Their unparalleled support in providing media coverage and advertising support for artistic programming, special events, and the annual Nutcracker Market allows the organization to showcase the Company’s world-class talent. Houston Ballet is proud to partner with KPRC – Houston’s home for news – and was proud to honor them at the 2023 Nutcracker Market.

CABRINA AND STEVEN OWSLEY Treasured members of the Houston Ballet family, Cabrina and Steven Owsley, have profoundly influenced the Company and the Houston arts scene. Cabrina, a devoted Houston Ballet Trustee, and her husband Steven have been steadfast supporters, passionately contributing to the Ballet’s success. As Co-Chairs of the 2024 Houston Ballet Ball, their exceptional generosity and leadership were key to its triumph. Cabrina and Steven’s enduring support and love for the arts have greatly enriched the Ballet and the Houston community, leaving a legacy of inspiration and dedication.

34 HOUSTON BALLET

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