Malibu Seen: Opera Lovers Get Jazzy

When it comes to increasing the prestige and quality of the Los Angeles Opera, few have been more dedicated than local Marc Stern.

The LA Opera Board Chairman and his wife have given so much that the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion’s reception area has been renamed the Eva and Marc Stern Grand Hall. Add in a first rate opera talent like Placido Domingo and conductor James Conlon and it turns into a wonderfully cohesive group effort. 

From rather modest beginnings, the organization has grown into a world-class company and is now ready to open its 2014-15 season. As for seasons past, Marc couldn’t be happier. “The year 2013 was enormously successful for the LA Opera, both artistically and financially,” Marc says. “Much of the credit for that goes to our dynamic Board of Directors and steadfast supporters for their incredible generosity and their wholehearted support for Placido Domingo’s artistic vision.”

Every year, the opera goes all out on opening night and 2014 is grander than ever. 

The Gatsby era will come to life on Sept. 13 for a gala celebration. It features Giuseppe Verdi’s iconic “La Traviata,” with a thoroughly modern twist. Drawing inspiration from the production’s Art Deco designs, the extravaganza is expected to magically transport black tie and couture-clad guests into a Roaring Twenties fantasy.  Look for actress Kate Walsh to dazzle on the red carpet. The star of “Fargo” and the upcoming series “Bad Judge,” Walsh hosts a champagne reception before guests take their seats for the evening’s performance. 

The “La Traviata” spotlight is set to shine on Placido Domingo and Nino Machaidze. The production is directed and designed by Marta Domingo and conducted by James Conlon. 

“La Trav,” as it’s known, is considered one of opera’s greatest romances, centering on a naïve young man who falls head over heels for a glamorous party girl, until an unexpected visitor threatens to tear them apart. 

Nino is slated to appear as the ill-fated Violetta, while Placido plays Giorgio. Auturo Chacon-Cruz will sing the role of Violetta’s young lover. 

Following the performance, guests are invited to enjoy a mouth-watering feast whipped up by Patina. The opening celebration honors Los Angeles County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky, who represents Malibu and has been actively involved in the arts and culture. 

Guests will top it all off at a prohibition-era after-party and a spin on the dance floor. 

The annual opera ball kicks off a season of much-anticipated performances that the VIPs say is sure to please. In the words of Marc Stern, “Our recent success will be hard to top, but I think that the 2014-15 season will be one of our most memorable yet.”