Although it was the gorgeous honoree, it was once again the backdrop for showcasing people. Johnny Mathis performed hits like “Chances Are” and “It’s Not For Me To Say” in top form. He not only sounded great, but he also looked amazing. As soon as I got home, I had to hit Wikipedia, because his appearance and performance did not seem at all possible when I kept adding up his years on the scene. I’m not giving away your age, Johnny, but I’ll just say he passed for 15+ years younger than his chronological age, easily. Marvin Hamlisch was equally impressive, affable and intimate with the audience. Besides performing The Way We Were, he and the DSO treated the crowd to the overture he wrote for A Chorus Line that was never used – a slice of history you can’t hear on the streets for any price.

Morton H. Meyerson

As I work my way backwards through this wonderful event, the thing that probably left the biggest impression on me was the filmed presentation, preceding the orchestral performances. It took the attendees back through the difficulties and sheer acts of will that made the institution possible. Morton Meyerson’s words were most touching when he talked about going to Ross Perot, whose financial contributions made the center possible, to see how he’d like the center named. In asking which family member Ross would like to name the building after, Meyerson’s genuine surprise and awe still registered deeply when he relayed Perot’s answer “I want it to be the Morton H. Meyerson.” Most Dallas-ites are unaware of Perot’s financial generosity in helping give the city this amazing structure, or, more impressively, that he chose anonymity as a way of honoring Meyerson’s tenaciousness in bringing all the pieces together, literally.

As a branding and PR person, I must applaud the organization for an event done immaculately. Even though we celebrated a building, the finest human traits were showcased – good will, the most exceptional creative talents (musical, architectural, entrepreneurial), perseverance, and selflessness, all in a warm and intimate setting. Fantastic!