Issue 441 December 11th 2024

The Headlines

Project To Renovate Wright's Dallas Theater

The only theater designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright in Dallas, TX has fallen into disrepair. City leaders are trying to plan for its future management as well as repairs and upgrades to the storied theater.

The theater in the 3600 block of Turtle Creek Boulevard in Uptown opened in 1959. It was designated a Dallas landmark around 2005.

The Kalita was built for the Dallas Theater Center, which donated it to the city in 1974, and in turn, leased it back to the Dallas Theater Center. The latest iteration of the agreement the city has with the Dallas Theater Center for management of the Kalita is set to expire in June of 2025, according to a city council memo. Dallas’ Office of Management and Culture recommends extending the current agreement through 2028, according to a memo.

“[The Dallas Office of Arts and Culture] OAC held meetings with DTC through November to discuss the current usage of the Kalita by DTC and other users of the facility,” the memo read. “A significant takeaway from our meetings was the issue of booking schedules for DTC and all other users of the facility.”

“This extension will provide a timeline of three standard performance seasons which typically run from September 1 of a given year to the following August 31,” the memo continued. “Two of these years will allow for OAC to engage with DTC and other partners to address the complexities of the current agreement and determine the best solution for a successful, safe, accessible, and sustainable future operation of the Kalita.”

The theater is also set to receive funding as part of the $1.25 billion bond program Dallas voters approved earlier this year for renovations. The Kalita is set to get nearly $9 million in bond funding.

“Currently, the 2024 Bond Program addressing repairs and upgrades to the Kalita is scheduled to begin FY 2027-28 for planning with construction beginning FY 2028-29,” the memo continued. “At the beginning of FY 2027-28, OAC will have a clear understanding of the future operation and management of the Kalita allowing for the most efficient and relevant repairs and upgrades to be made to the facility."

Wright Foundation Says Biltmore Sprite That Struck Child Not Historic

The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, which is dedicated to preserving Wright’s work and educating the public about the architect’s contributions, expressed sadness over the death of a child at the Arizona Biltmore near Phoenix, AZ — which was influenced by Wright’s architectural style.

An 8-year-old boy was struck by a falling statue at the resort on Nov. 27. He later died of his injuries.

“The news about the passing of the child at the Biltmore is truly heartbreaking,” Henry Hendrix, chief marketing officer for the foundation, said in a statement. “We are deeply saddened by this tragic accident, and our heartfelt condolences are with the family during this unimaginably difficult time.”

Hendrix went on to say the foundation shared in the sorrow of the child’s passing.

“Please know that we share in the sorrow of this moment and hold everyone affected close in our hearts as they navigate this unimaginable loss,” Hendrix said in the statement.

The statue that struck the boy was a “sprite,” a depiction of a mythical being meant to serve as a guardian over the land. According to the Arizona Biltmore website, the property has 19 sprite statues.

In his statement, Hendrix said the sprites at the Biltmore are replicas of designs at Wright’s Midway Gardens project in Chicago, which was built in 1914 and demolished in 1929. The statues at the Biltmore were created in the mid-1980s and gifted to the Biltmore in 1988. They are not considered historic artifacts and are not subjects of historic preservation.

The Wright Places To Travel

Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands region is home to some of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most famous works. His designs, like the iconic Fallingwater and the nearby Kentuck Knob in Dunbar, PA, blend beautifully with the natural surroundings, creating a perfect mix of art and nature. Visitors can take tours of these architectural masterpieces, seeing how Wright’s vision reshaped the way we think about design and the environment.

The region’s stunning landscapes make it an ideal destination for anyone who appreciates both architecture and the great outdoors. Traveling to these sites offers a chance to experience Wright’s genius up close while surrounded by the beauty of the Laurel Highlands.

Former Sullivan Cottage Owners Win Court Case

For nearly 20 years, the Minor family has fought their insurance company over the loss of their home that was destroyed during Hurricane Katrina. On Thursday, the state Supreme Court ruled in the family's favor, affirming a jury award of over $10 million to the family and more than $4.5 million in attorney fees.

"I'm very pleased with the decision we got today," attorney Jim Reeves said in a phone interview. "It was a hard-fought case, but I really think it's a win for homeowner policyholders here in the state."

Although the court ruled in the Minors' favor, the decision was far from unanimous. The court ruled 5 to 3, with one justice not participating. One of the supporting justices dissented in part, objecting to the $4.5 million in attorney fees.

The Minor family home on East Beach in Ocean Springs, MS, was the former summer home of Chicago architect Louis Sullivan. It was built in 1890 and withstood many hurricanes until it was felled by Katrina in 2005. Two guest houses were built on the property, which also sustained heavy damage in the storm. Only one survived.

Architect Frank Lloyd Wright was Sullivan's apprentice during the time the Sullivan bungalow was built. Both renowned architects are credited with the home's design.

The one surviving house was restored after Hurricane Katrina. The Charnley-Norwood house is now a museum, where visitors can get an up-close look at the many elements that demonstrate the special features contributed by both men.

In the Minors' case, the family fought their insurance company, United Services Automobile Association, and was given small payments from USAA that the Minors said were not enough since their property was a total loss.

A jury trial subsequently awarded the Minors over $1.5 million in damages in 2013, which was appealed and remanded to be tried again. The next jury awarded the family $10 million in punitive damages and more than $450,000 in extra-contractual damages for their attorneys.

In a post-trial motion, the Minors sought additional attorney fees and were awarded $4.5 million.

USAA appealed the award in 2022, but after hearing oral arguments in July, the state Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Minors. The company was ordered to pay 4% interest on the attorney fees from Oct. 3, 2022 to present.

“USAA’s conduct was egregious," Reeves said in a statement. "USAA took advantage of vulnerable homeowners who lost their home and had paid premiums for years and intentionally and repeatedly denied claims it knew were legitimate.”

"This case sends a strong message to insurance companies that this type of conduct will not be tolerated and will help ensure all homeowners will be treated better when the next storm hits," Reeves said.

Kankakee Residents Called To Support Wright's Bradley House

Wright in Kankakee, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving Frank Lloyd Wright’s Bradley House in Kankakee, IL, is urging community members to help restock its supply closet. Essential items like hand soap, trash bags, and cleaning supplies are in short supply, impacting daily operations and events hosted at the historic site.

According to the organization, donations allow funds to be redirected toward critical preservation efforts and maintenance work on the Bradley House, a prominent piece of Prairie-style architecture. To streamline the process, Wright in Kankakee has created an Amazon Wish List featuring needed supplies such as multi-purpose cleaners, paper towels, and printer ink.

Supporters can purchase items directly from the Amazon Wish List, ensuring donations are sent directly to the organization. Every contribution aids in preserving this architectural treasure and enhancing public engagement with local history.

To make a difference, visit the Wright in Kankakee Amazon Wish List today and help sustain the Bradley House for future generations.

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