Carl Cunningham, a much respected Houston performing arts critic and writer, has dedicated the past two years to writing the rich history of Festival Hill.
An intimate crowd gathered at the historic Grand Fayette Hotel this past winter for a book signing to celebrate the release of the new tome Festival Hill at 50, The History of Round Top Festival Institute, authored by Carl Cunningham.
Cunningham, a much respected Houston performing arts critic and writer, has dedicated the past two years to writing the rich history of Festival Hill from its humble beginnings to the international acclaim it enjoys today. Designed and published by Herring Design in Houston, Cunningham’s new book is chock-full of historical photographs and drawings detailing Festival Hill’s 50-year journey from casual outdoor concerts to spectacular performances in the stunning concert hall that has been called “a jewel in Texas.” The book also celebrates the people that have created this amazing place, and those that have passed through its doors as students and gone on to become stars around the world.
Showing support: Fran Eubanks, Nancy Braus, Nichole Petrie, Mitchell Herzog, Verona Disdier, Ronda Herzog, Carl Cunningham, James Dick, Curtis Ann Davis, Woody Smith and Patrick Jernigan.
Lamar Lentz, Jerry Herring, Pat Johnson, Steven Starr, Carl Cunningham and James Dick.
Pat Johnson and Will Fleming.
Jerry and Joan Herring and Jim Kastleman.
Barry and Sandy Zeluff.
Nancy Braus and Virginia Leech.
Mary Reeves pauses to admire the hotel’s festive holiday decorations.
Stephen Starr, design director at Herring, led the team that turned the aesthetic of the Institute into a stunning book. The cover design of the Festival’s iconic lyre was drawn by Houston artist Andy Deerwater.
You can order a copy of Festival Hill at 50, The History of Round Top Festival Institute here, or visit FestivalHill.org to find an order form. Books are available now and can be shipped direct, or picked up at Round Top Festival Institute. For more information email [email protected]
