Announcement receptions can be “Oh, we already knew that” for the guests. But the 2016 Dallas Symphony Orchestra Gala announcement on Monday, August 1, boded more ho-hum with loads of folks still on summer hiatus. Gee, you couldn’t blame ‘em as the temps were moving comfortably into the three-digit range.


Ah, but then this wasn’t your typical announcement. Already DSO Gala Co-Chairs Marena and Roger Gault along with their BFF Sherwood Wagner had raised the bar with a little soiree at Sherwood’s mansion that had tongues wagging like a metronome set at 208 BPM. The claim was it was the party of the year and only ended because a major storm was blowing in big time.
But before guests gathered at the Meyerson for the update, the DSO staff had shown its flexibility. Seems that earlier in the day the gas had been turned off at the Meyerson. No, it wasn’t a question of the gas bill not being paid. It was just one of those technical glitches. Still, it did create some challenges, like the afternoon’s tasting for the gala had to be moved across the way to the Belo. And when the gas was still lacking just before the reception, the evening’s pass-around appetizers were cooked up at Belo. But nary a guest knew of the situation because all was in place as they arrived.

As for the day’s tasting, Sherwood had a real surprise when, unbeknownst to her, walnuts were in one of the courses. She suddenly had an allergic reaction resulting in lips that the Kardashians would have envied. Luckily, relief was found and Sherwood’s pucker was perfect for the reception.
Another perfect 10 was scored by Kara and Randall Goss, who strolled along the sidewalk looking cool. Kara was in white breezy evening pants with pockets (“I love having pockets!”) and Randall didn’t show a smidgen of perspiration in full suit and tie.


Also in fine bib and tucker was Underwriting Co-Chair Barry Hancock in suit and tie with wife/Underwriting Co-Chair Margaret Hancock in white lacy sundress.
Joining the Hancocks was Underwriting Co-Chair Kristi Hoyl, whose husband/Underwriting Co-Chair Ron Hoyl had to work. Kristi admitted surprise that daughter Sydney Hoyl, who had been at camp in New York for a couple of weeks, had not sent one letter home. It seems that Kristi had even arranged for pre-addressed envelopes, and still no mail from Sydney. Not to worry. When Sydney is at college in need of funds, she’ll improve her communication technique.
As for the DSO Gala on Friday, September 16, there’ll be no traditional theme. It’s just gonna be a fun evening, with pianist Lang Lang as the featured headliner. The table decorations are in the final stages of preparation, but be prepared for black tablecloths.

According to Roger, both ticket and sponsorship sales are 78% toward goal and ahead of last year. While insiders report that the percentage of sales is higher than Roger’s guesstimate, it shows that the magic of music and fundraising are moving along despite the Texas heat.