Introduction to Raising the Barre
What began as a young professionals’ soirée has evolved into one of Houston’s most anticipated culinary-meets-culture nights. This year’s Raising the Barre event was a huge success, with nearly 160 guests in attendance on May 4. The event, hosted at Caracol, was a fan-favorite tasting experience that brought together ballet enthusiasts and foodies for a night of mingling, noshing, and toasting to a great cause.
The Event’s Purpose and Impact
The springtime soirée was co-chaired by Duyen and Marc Nguyen, and Dr. Tatiana Sorkin and Michel Coret. The event raised nearly $110,000 for Houston Ballet, supporting its mission to inspire a lasting love for dance through performance and education. This was not just another charity dinner; it was an immersive experience where dancers became muses and sous chefs, joining forces with Houston’s culinary stars to serve up an inspired four-course meal.
A Night of Food and Dance
Each course served at the event was a storytelling moment in its own right. The dishes were carefully crafted to reflect the personalities and backgrounds of the dancers and chefs involved. For example, Chef Aaron Bludorn kicked things off with soloist Danbi Kim, channeling her Korean childhood through a delicate sesame-crusted hamachi, balanced by gochujang vinaigrette and marinated cucumbers.
Course Highlights
- Chef Chris Williams and demi-soloist Estheysis Menendez served a soul-warming lobster stew with plantain fufu and jalapeño pesto, honoring the dancer’s Cuban heritage and her mother’s love of herbs and wellness.
- Chef Hugo Ortega teamed with principal Chase O’Connell for picanha a las brazos, a coulotte steak celebration dressed in pasilla mole and earthy mushroom zacahuil.
- Pastry powerhouse Rebecca Masson of Fluff Bake Bar partnered with first soloist Gian Carlo Perez to close out the show with a guava pastelillo topped with cream cheese ice cream and honey, a nod to his Cuban childhood sweets.
Giving Back to the Community
The event’s thoughtful twist didn’t stop at the food. The lush floral centerpieces were repurposed and delivered to local hospitals and care facilities, thanks to Houston nonprofit Bloom Again, offering cheer beyond the ballroom.
Attendees and Supporters
Among those soaking up the delicious scene were Beth Muecke, Patti Murphy, Ann Bean, Dr. Patrick Benge, Susan Binney, Jennifer Kushner, Kristy Bradshaw, Lindsey Brown, Andrea Medina, Lenni and Bill Burke, Anne and Albert Chao, Jo Furr, Mitchell George and Stanley Curtis Jr., Paula Whitten-Doolin, Victoria Gutierrez and Nick Pierce, Carey Kirkpatrick, Deborah and Edward Koehler, S. Shawn Stephens and Jim Jordan, Liliana Soltero and Mike Hawkins, Yana and Warren McFatter, Kris and Richard McGee, Teal and Jeffrey Reamer, Julie Kent, Jim Nelson, Melissa Reihle, and Laura and Brannon Robertson.
Conclusion
Raising the Barre was a night to remember, with its unique blend of food, dance, and community spirit. The event’s success is a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact that can be made when people come together to support a great cause. With its inspiring mission and delicious food, Raising the Barre is sure to remain one of Houston’s most anticipated events for years to come.
