The San Francisco Opera’s Opening Night Gala is one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year, and this year's edition did not disappoint. With the grand theme of a "Masked Ball," the evening brought together the best of opera, the Bay Area arts community, tech, fashion, and philanthropy in a spectacular celebration of the company’s 102nd season.

Scroll below to watch our red carpet highlights, exclusive interviews, and favorite moments from one of the most celebrated arts events of the year!

The evening's theme, inspired by Giuseppe Verdi's opera Un ballo in maschera (AKA: A Masked Ball), set the tone for an opulent night. The opera's rich storyline and dramatic musical composition were reflected in the evening's décor and mood, immersing attendees in the mystique of a classic masked ball.

Beyond the splendor, the night held a deeper significance, focusing on the San Francisco Opera’s educational and community programs. 

“Through the guild's programs, over 40,000 students are reached in over 120 schools every year. It is amazing work", said Valarie Crane Dorfman, SF Opera Guild Board Member and Gala Co-Chair.

This emphasis on engaging the next generation was echoed throughout the evening, with mentions of Opera Scouts and community outreach initiatives that have introduced thousands of young people to opera, some for the first time.

Fashion, of course, played a starring role in the masked ball-themed gala, as guests arrived in glamorous attire, with masks ranging from intricate designs to classic black-and-white pieces.

We had the chance to catch up with Jad Rasha, the designer behind Kari's custom gown, who shared his inspiration: “There were multiple inspirations: San Francisco Opera, menswear, and the ‘50s, which I always admire.” Accessories for the look were provided by Alexis Bittar, a brand that embodies art and expression with each design.

There are many highlights this season, but The Handmaid’s Tale (a West Coast premiere), Carmen (a beloved opera), and La Bohème (a favorite for fans of Rent, which is based on the opera) continued to top people’s lists when we asked which operas they were most excited about.

“We’ve put some amazing new operas on during my time here,” said Tyler Cervini, SF Opera’s Marketing Manager. “San Francisco Opera is known for being an extremely innovative company, and I’m so proud of the representation we have for that.”

San Francisco Opera is also renowned for its fun and immersive community events, like their Encounter experiences. This year’s Encounter promises something extra special. “The first act of Carmen will be in the Opera House, as usual, on the stage,” said Matthew Shilvock, General Director of San Francisco Opera. “Then, after that, people will come out to the lobbies, which will have transformed into this sultry version of Seville with amazing immersive experiences on each level of the Opera House."

This unique experience has been one of the ways SF Opera has brought in new audiences, and it seems to be working. “Seventy to eighty percent of the people who attend have never been to the opera before, and they come back!” shared Jack Calhoun, San Francisco Opera’s Board President.

One of the things we love about attending San Francisco Opera is the chance to experience world-class artistry while connecting with others who share a passion for the arts, whether they’re lifelong opera fans or newcomers. Bay Area influencer Andrew De Los Santos agrees: "It's a lot different than paying to see a DJ in the city. That happens every week, but what San Francisco Opera offers is so special because it doesn't happen all the time. It has its seasons, and every fall, I'm super excited for what's coming."

Lillian Phan, from The Conservatory at One Sansome, echoed this sentiment, saying, “I love seeing the immersive quality of these types of events. It brings in so many people from different backgrounds who truly enjoy what San Francisco has to offer, which is the arts.”

We asked everyone we spoke to—from new fans to longtime opera lovers—to describe San Francisco Opera in one word. Here’s what they said: "Bold, glamorous, magnificent, magical, extravagant, fabulous, classic, artistic, mesmerizing, legacy, gilded, decadent, stunning, incredible, beautiful, extraordinary, powerful, community, innovative, storytelling, joy, and ravishing." We couldn’t agree more!

Tickets are now on sale for San Francisco Opera’s 2024–2025 season. Click HERE to find out more, and we hope to see you at their performances and community experiences. Don’t miss out!

To see more highlights from the night, scroll below: