Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Unveils 2026 Debutantes at 40th Annual Presentation Ball Announcement Weekend
The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League (DSOL) set the stage for an unforgettable season as they proudly introduced the 2026 debutantes during a week-long series of events, starting with the announcement of this year’s Debutantes at a party on May 15. Events continued with a Deb and Honor Guard Family dinner at the historic downtown El Fenix, a couture gown showcase hosted by Stanley Korshak at their luxurious Bridal Salon, and a gown presentation at Neiman Marcus Downtown. The series of events officially kicked off the season that will culminate in the much anticipated 40th Annual Presentation Ball, scheduled for February 21, 2026, at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.
Presentation Ball Co-Chairs Maggie Kipp and Kristin Hallam, along with DSOL President Claire Catrino, orchestrated the week’s events. Claire is a former debutante who made her debut in 2011 and has been a part of the ball’s planning and organization since that time.
“It is an honor to serve as President for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League,” said Claire. “Our debutantes and their families will enjoy many wonderful events, make new friends and have one-of-a-kind experiences all while supporting the outstanding education and outreach programs of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.
Kristin Hallam proudly announced that her in-laws, Fanchon and Howard Hallam, will serve as the Honorary Chairs. The Hallams have a longstanding and meaningful connection to the Dallas Symphony. Howard served for many years on the Board of Governors of the Dallas Symphony Association, including a term as Chairman. Their leadership gift was pivotal in launching the Kim Noltemy Young Musicians program – one of the initiatives supported by the Ball – and they have generously endowed the DSO Co-Concertmaster Chair.
“We are so grateful to the Hallams for their leadership and support,” said Kristin. “Their son (my husband!) was an Honor Guard, and two granddaughters were presented in 2020 and 2024. Fanchon and Howard could not be with us tonight because it is their concert night at the Symphony! I look forward to introducing you to them very soon.”
The year will be one with many milestones reached: the DSOL will celebrate its 80th anniversary, the Presentation Ball is entering its 40th year, and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra will turn 125 years old.
The formal announcement of Debutantes by Master of Ceremonies Stan Gardner went flawlessly. Marena Gault and members of the Assembly, a group of former Debutantes, played a pivotal role behind the scenes coaching the Debutantes and Honor Guard for a smooth presentation.
Parents in attendance who have had Debutante daughters in prior years included David and Lee Thompson, and Suzanne and Adam Stiles.
Notable attendees for the evening included Michelle Miller Burns, Ross Perot President and CEO of the DSO; Roger Gault, Chairman of the Board of Governors; Diane and Scott Sealy; The Honorable Clay and Ramsey Jenkins; and Denton Bricker.
Also present was longtime League member Barbara Paschall Averitt who has been a dedicated and influential figure in the Presentation Ball since its inception in 1987. She has continuously contributed to the event, including serving as co-chair for the 2025 Presentation Ball. Barbara‘s enduring dedication exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism and community support that the Ball celebrates.
Introducing the 2026 Debutantes: Claire Francis Andrews, Madeline Grace Behrens, Claire Louise Bradshaw, Ryan Ella Marie Brown, Eleanor Baxter Browne, Meredith Lilly Burkhart, Catherine Sophia Cox, Larkin McKay Devening, Marbella Mora Duarte, Sophie Elizabeth Dybala, Kathryne Grace Eastin, Gisele Mary Rose Enrico, Ashley Shannon Goldman, Stella Jane Grabham, MaKenna Loy Harvey, Elizabeth Ann Hautt, Jane Penny Hochman, Madeleine Christine Jenkins, Livia Grace Lange, Charlotte Bryant Lauten, Sue Sealy McGowin, Attales Grace Meyer, Elizabeth Catherine Nance, Madelyn Leigh Neuhoff, Carly Nicole Polka, Chloe Olivia Polka, Rachel Camille Rader, Sofia Marie Reyes, Marlo Elizabeth Rivas, Campbell Ann Schultz, Kathleen Brooks Searcy, Lindy Kate Smith, Sienna Alexis Stagen, Tessa Elizabeth Stephenson, Charlotte Spencer Stiles, Harper Catherine Tagg, Margaret Lee Thompson, Corinne Elizabeth Tinker, Georgia Bedell Williamson, Virginia Anne Wilson, Olivia Constance Zambrano, and Elena Catherine Zeballos.
The presentation of these remarkable young women highlights the values and support instilled by their families and mentors. Their achievements and character are a testament to the collective effort of their loved ones, shaping them into the exemplary individuals they are today.
Founded in 1946, the DSOL continues to support the Dallas Symphony Orchestra through dedicated service, education, and fundraising activities. Since 1998, the League has contributed over $26 million 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.
Photos by Gittings and Deborah Brown