In Return to In-Person Performances, SPA Commissions Works by Local Artists

In Return to In-Person Performances, SPA Commissions Works by Local Artists

Say Girl Say / photo by Pam Ashley Photography

SOCIETY FOR THE Performing Arts opened its 2021-2022 season on Friday with a lively free performance by Latin Grammy-winning artist Nella at Miller Outdoor Theater. It was a celebratory evening, SPA's first large-scale in-person performance since Harry Connick, Jr., in March 2020.


The group will continue its dynamic season next weekend with part one of its Houston Artist Commissioning Project, a pilot initiative to spotlight local creative voices. Taking the Jones Hall stage Oct. 15 and 16 are artists spanning multiple disciplines.

Indie-pop duo Say Girl Say will perform the audio-visual piece "Becoming "alongside Two Star Symphony and Input/Output, a multimedia duo who produce immersive "digital-physical" experiences. In his piece "Black, Blue, All Lives; OH MY," spoken-word artist Patrick Davis explores how we are divided and how we are simultaneously united. And dance groups Loop38 and Houston Contemporary Dance Company put on a joint show, "Corpórea y Espíritu (Body and Spirit)."

In a statement, SPA CEO Meg Booth called the Commissioning Project initiative and its goal of presenting new works created by Houstonians "critical to both our mission and the advancement of performing arts forms." It offers "much needed support to our artist communities, and makes our stages a mirror to the creativity and talents of our own city," she said. "The Commissioning Project will develop and feature prominently each year going forward. This is truly an inspiring beginning."

The socially distanced performances begin at 7:30pm, and masks are required for audience members. And at 2pm on Sunday, Oct. 17, the participating artists partake in a free live lecture at the Blaffer Art Museum on the UH campus.

Part two of SPA's Houston Artist Commissioning Project debuts on Nov. 12.

Loop38

Houston Contemporary Dance Company

Art + Entertainment
Leadership in Action: CEO Theresa Roemer Credits Mother, Mentors and Mindset for Accomplishments

How did you get to where you are today? My journey to where I am today is built on a foundation of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Every step along the way, I faced obstacles, but I approached each one with determination and a “never give up” mindset. Instead of being discouraged by challenges, I used them as opportunities to grow and improve. Consistency was key—I committed to showing up and giving my best effort every day. I also learned not to take “no” as a final answer. Instead, I saw it as a chance to push harder, adapt, and find another way forward. It’s this combination of persistence, resilience, and unwavering focus that has brought me to where I am today.

Keep Reading Show less

Buttermilk Baby

WANT TO FEEL like a kid again? Fall into these fun and spooky eats and drinks, win a costume contest, and indulge in seasonal sweets!

Keep Reading Show less
Food

Out magazine cover and Avery Belyeu

ONE OF CITYBOOK'S ‘Cool 100’ has been named to another top 100 list!

Keep Reading Show less
People + Places