Yet, the flame lives on.
The Founding President and Honorary Director of The Dallas Opera (originally Dallas Civic Opera), one of the most influential and prescient civic, art and business leaders in the history of Dallas, has passed away at the age of 95.
Henry S. Miller, Jr. died Saturday (December 5th) following a brief illness, according to this detailed report by Steve Brown in “The Dallas Morning News”. Even if you already know the story of this extraordinary gentleman and his amazing family, it’s worth reading to remind yourself all over again that we have been singularly blessed to walk with giants: people – like Henry S. Miller, Jr. – who combined staggering business acumen with quiet audacity, imagination, determination, far-reaching generosity and consummate professionalism.
My betters within this company will no doubt have more eloquent things to say about Mr. Miller and his long association with the Dallas Opera; however, my own sense of sadness is both deep and genuine. He is the last of the founders and his passing marks the end of an era for this company.
We recently solicited a comment from Mr. Miller on the occasion of our inaugural production in the new Winspear Opera House. He wrote:
“I remember another opening night more than half a century ago. The weather was wet and cold and the sets barely arrived in time. The curtain parted, we settled into our seats and experienced world-class opera, created right here in Dallas, for the very first time. I cannot be with you for this momentous celebration of this new chapter in the company’s history. It is gratifying for me to know that the passion my late wife, Juanita, and I have felt for The Dallas Opera will live on in future generations.”
From your lips to God’s ears, Mr. Miller.
May your family members be consoled by your many gifts and accomplishments and the proud legacy of a long life exceedingly well-lived.
And may you rest in peace.
Suzanne Calvin, Assoc. Dir. of Marketing, The Dallas Opera
