Issue link: http://papercitymagazine.uberflip.com/i/1530892
F or its 30th Anniversary, Project Row Houses created a tri-part Urban Soirée just as fabulous as the historic frame homes it biannually transforms into cutting-edge art spaces. The epic gathering in the heart of Third Ward served as a testament to the organization's three- decade commitment to art, culture, and community. Chaired by Heidi McDonald Smith and Simin Banister, the celebration brought together nearly 500 guests. Happy hour and exhibit viewing among PRH's iconic row houses on Holman Street segued into an Urban Soirée, a unique take on a seated dinner, staged within a tented pavilion in the reborn Emancipation Park. A communal toast accompanied the three-course West African-inspired fare by ChòpnBlok. Houston-raised MacArthur Genius pianist Jason Moran headlined with percussionist Jamire Williams and bassist Burniss Earl Travis II, followed by a DJ set by Queen Cora, storytelling by Walter Hull, and inspiring remarks from Mayor John Whitmire. The night's finale, the Eldorado Ballroom Afterparty, created a full-circle moment amidst the handsomely restored music venue (recipient of a 2024 PaperCity Design Award). Supporters danced to a live set by WOMON (aka Mo Nikole) while sampling small bites from chef Chris Williams' Lucille's 1913. 30 Candles Project Row Houses' Swanky Urban Soirée By Sofia Westerman with Catherine D. Anspon. Photography Alex Barber, David "Odiwams" Wright. (Continued) Jason Moran Glenn Coleman Chris Hollins Anita Smith, Alex Ramos Chair duo Simin Banister, Heidi McDonald Smith Danielle Burns Wilson Rosine Kouamen, Joi Maria Probus, Renetta Lee, Matt Probus Rich Kinder, Rick Lowe Mayor John Whitmire 22