Houston’s Founders Club Turns Into an Elite Stage With a Broadway Star Thrilling Hobby Center Supporters

For the launch of  “A Night at the Founders Club,” the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts tapped Tony Award winner and singing sensation Adrienne Warren to set the stage for a series of intimate dinner shows in support of Hobby’s education and accessibility programs.

And what a night it was. A stunning dinner by Monarch Hospitality and entertainment that stole the show.

Broadway superstar Warren, who originated the title role in TINA: The Tine Turner Musical, and her pianist had the clutch of 100 cocktail-attired attendees swaying in their seats. The repertoire included Broadway tunes, and hits from Al Green, James Taylor and Simon and Garfunkel. And, of course, Tina Turner’s rocking “Proud Mary.”

Applause, applause for the unique fundraising idea and for the inaugural chairs Pam and Rob Doty and underwriting chairs Lesha and Tom Elsenbrook, all of whom helped led the night to $310,000 in proceeds.

Aiding in the fundraising effort were underwriter committee members Renee and Steve Ash, Mady and Ken Kades, Michelle and Jeff Majewski, Molly and Miles Marks, and Anne-Laure and Steve Stephens.

“Last summer this event was just an idea planned to help support new investment in education work,” Hobby Center CEO Mark Folkes told the gathering.  “It’s a bold move for the Hobby Center to move into fundraising like this and we are so, so deeply grateful to Rob and Lesha for stepping up to take on this challenge.

“It’s scary being first but you did this beautifully and exceeded the fundraising goal raising over $300,000.”

In addition, Folkes explained the motivation behind the new fundraiser.

“Over the past year, the Hobby Center has undertaken a strategic planning process with a focus on deepening understanding of the role the Hobby Center plays in Houston’s arts ecosystem and how we can leverage our resources to amplify Houston art makers and arts organizations,” Folkes noted.

“Central to this work is a newfound commitment to serving as a connector, conveyor and incubator for all Houston audiences, art makers and arts organizations. Tonight’s event directly connects to the new investments we’re making.”

PC Seen: Glenda and Russell Gordy, Demetra and Franklin Jones, Michael Vanderhider, Betty Tapick, Dorothy and James Carlson, John Drewer and David Jaqua, Teresa Ebel, Paula and Dwayne Harris, Marjorie Evans, Ellie and Michael Francisco, Denise Monteleone, Nancy and Bryan Ruez, and Cathy and Scott Valby.