The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League’s40thPresentation Ball Casino Royale Party unfolded in dazzling fashion at the elegant Arlington Hall on a hot July 25th night. Guests arrived in stylish cocktail attire and sweeping evening gowns, setting the tone for an unforgettable formal affair. Bright Casino Royale colors in all tones of pinks, purples, and greens were seen on the Debs and the Honor Guard were dapper in their summer white tie.The night began with an array of cocktails and drinks that set the festive tone for the festivities. The Debs, Honor Guard, and their families were treated to a fun evening of dinner, lively casino games and non–stop dancing. True to theme, a sleek green Aston Martin greeted partygoers at the entrance, a nod to the legendary Agent 007. With gracious smiles and heartfelt welcomes, Presentation Ball co–chairs Maggie Kipp and Kristin Hallam along with DSOL President Claire Catrino, greeted each arriving guest. “We were elated to dance, dine, gamble, and laugh with our incredible 40th Debs, HonorGuard and families,” said co–chair Maggie. “All completed the Casino Royale’s 007 mission of colorful fabulous fashion and elegant fun!” The highly acclaimed musical ensemble Manhattan, a full live band under the Jordan Kahn Music Company, kept the dance floor packed. Their repertoire presenteda wide range of genres and eras—from vintage soul to contemporary pop—perfect for keeping the energy alive. The group played through the evening on the stage which has witnessed the band’s unforgettable performances time and again. Macaroons in the Casino Royale colors along with other delicious deserts were great pick me up allowing guests to dance and play casino games late into the night. Lighted Hawaiian leis and funky neon sunshades were distributed for wild fun and the dance floor was aglow with the blinking lights. At the appointed time, the Debutantes gathered outside for a group photo alongside an elegant Aston Martin provided by event sponsor Avondale Dealerships. Distinguished guests in attendance were Kerri Cleghorn Lai, the newly appointed VicePresident of Development for the DSO, and Denton Bricker, the Director of DSO Events and Volunteers. Spotted at roulette wheel and on the dance floor included 40th year Debutantes Claire Bradshaw, Stella Grabham, Livia Lange, Olivia Zambrano, Ryan Brown, Marlo Rivas, Cate Cox, Claire Andrews, Madeleine Jenkins, Madeline Mayer, Sofia Reyes, Rachel Rader, Lindy Smith, Campbell Schultz, Jane Hochman, Elena Zeballos, Ashley Goldman, Charlotte Lauten, Sealy McGowin, Tessa Stephenson, and Georgia Williamson. Some of theHonor Guard members in attendance included Key Coker, Knox Waggoner, Alan Hunt, John Bullard, Ryan McCord, Matthew Melcher, Burke Arthur, Daniel Waggoner, Jack Schlafer, Joseph Copeland, Knox Waggoner, Calder Sinak, Carter Weigand, Mark Hardaway, Will Collet, and George Touris. Sponsors for the evening included Avondale Dealerships, Barbara Sturm, MisterTuxedo, Love Shack Fancy Cortez Resources, and Anchor Capital. Ben E. Keith is the Presenting Sponsor of the Presentation Ball Special thanks for the committee who made the evening possible: Mari Epperson, Niki Turner, Nancy Gopez, Deborah Brown, Christine Winn, and Stephanie Hunt, and Sharon Ballew. The Casino Royale Party marked the culmination of a whirlwind summer for the Debutantes—weeks filled with bow boot camps, luncheons, and elegant social mixers. Now, the countdown begins for their formal debut at the 40th Annual Presentation Ball, set for February 21, 2026, at the renowned Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center. Proceeds from the Presentation Ball support the Dallas Symphony’s education and community outreach initiatives. Among the most beloved is the Young Strings program, which provides free private lessons, instrument loans, and ensemble experiences for talented students—primarily Black, Latino, and low–income youth. With a 100% high school graduation rate and nearly all students continuing to college—many in music—this program is shaping the next generation of musicians and arts supporters. This year marks a trio of important milestones: the 80th anniversary of the DSOL, the 40th Presentation Ball, and the 125th anniversary of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. The DSOL continues to support the Dallas Symphony Orchestra through dedicated service, education, and fundraising activities. Since 1998, the League has contributed over $26million to the Dallas Symphony Association’s Community Outreach and Education programs, bringing the magic of the symphony to thousands of young people and adults across the Dallas Metroplex.
