A transformative cultural event is set to grace the city of Houston as Solange Knowles and her artist collective Saint Heron collaborate with Performing Arts Houston. This series, titled Eldorado Ballroom Houston, spans six unique programs across iconic venues such as Jones Hall, The Museum of Fine Arts Houston, and the historic Eldorado Ballroom itself. Each evening presents a distinct experience that intertwines the past with the present, honoring artistic pioneers while showcasing today's innovative creators. Early access for Performing Arts Houston members begins immediately, with public sales starting on April 22 at 10 AM CST.
The series delves into various musical themes and performances, including tributes to Black female classical composers, spiritual and gospel music convocations, explorations of contemporary performance art, celebrations of zydeco and folk roots, and a futuristic homage to Houston's musical legacy. In addition to live performances, two free screenings of Saint Heron's film Monuments Are Here will take place at The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. This expansive program not only highlights the rich history of the Eldorado Ballroom but also celebrates the vibrant creativity of Houston’s diverse communities.
Reviving Musical Heritage in Houston
This segment focuses on the revival of Houston's rich musical heritage through a series of events that pay homage to the contributions of Black artists. The programming includes orchestral works by notable composers like Julia Perry and Patrice Rushen, alongside original compositions by Solange Knowles herself. Conducted by Jeri Lynne Johnson, these performances celebrate the profound impact of Black women in classical music, bringing their stories and creations to life in front of captivated audiences.
On Dissonance, an evening dedicated to classical, symphonic, and opera works, takes center stage at Jones Hall. This performance highlights the transformative power of Black women in orchestral and operatic music, featuring works by esteemed composer Julia Perry and others. Soprano Zoie Reams adds brilliance to this tribute, conducted by Jeri Lynne Johnson, founder of Philadelphia’s Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra. The series continues with Type of Guest, an experimental performance night held at the Eldorado Ballroom. Interdisciplinary artists Autumn Knight and Liv.e explore the fluid boundaries between music, art, and theater, creating immersive experiences that challenge traditional notions of audience and performer dynamics. These events exemplify Solange's vision of blending historical reverence with modern innovation, ensuring that the legacy of Black musicians resonates deeply within Houston's cultural landscape.
Celebrating Diversity Through Artistic Expression
Beyond classical tributes, the Eldorado Ballroom Houston series embraces diversity through its varied offerings. Events such as Paper in My Shoe honor the foundational contributions of Black musicians to genres like zydeco and folk music, while Glory to Glory revives spiritual and devotional works. These evenings connect Houston's storied past with its evolving present, celebrating both local talent and global influences.
Paper in My Shoe, hosted at the Eldorado Ballroom, pays tribute to zydeco and folk music with performances by Kara Jackson and Rosie Ledet. Rooted in Houston's rich musical lineage, this event bridges the rustic spirit of Southern Americana with the voices shaping and modernizing the genre today. Meanwhile, Glory to Glory at Jones Hall offers an evening of faith and artistry, featuring Gospel icon Twinkie Clark and The Clark Sisters alongside choral works by Mary Lou Williams performed by Artina McCain and choir under conductor Malcom Merriweather. Additionally, Go Slow brings together acclaimed Nigerian-American artist Dozie Kanu and Paris-based DJ Crystallmess for a night of sculptural installations and curated mixes exploring Black southern electronic music. This fusion of sounds from Houston and West Africa underscores the city's role as a melting pot of cultural expression. Furthermore, the inclusion of two free screenings of Monuments Are Here at The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, enriches the series by offering visual narratives centered around collecting and preserving Black domesticity and sacredness. Through these multifaceted events, the Eldorado Ballroom Houston series cements its place as a beacon of artistic celebration and community engagement, reflecting the dynamic essence of its hometown.