Performances Magazine San Diego | S.D. Opera, December 2023

MUSIC BY

Javier Martínez LIBRETTO BY

Leonard Foglia

Entravision | Lead Production Sponsor

PERFORMING AT CIVIC THEATRE

December 1 – 7:30 pm | December 3 – 2:00 pm FC 000 SD Opera C1 1223.indd 1

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P1 Program Cast, performances, who’s who, director’s notes, donors and more.

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6 In the Wings San Diego’s top classical ballet companies present Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker; San Diego Symphony’s Noel Noel show at The Rady Shell (pictured); and local holiday theater productions.

Amid its “Metamorphosis” season, La Jolla Symphony & Chorus welcomes new co-Music Director and Orchestra Conductor, Sameer Patel (pictured).

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18 Dining Delicious reasons to dine out this winter, including Long Story Short, Ichifuji Sushi, Patisserie Melanie, The Heights (pictured) and Valle.

32 Parting Shot A cathedral “tunnel of lights” art installation at Lightscape at the San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas.

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: COURTESY THE HEIGHTS; GARY PAYNE; SAM ZAUSCHER

12 Feature: Local Music Spotlight

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NATURE LOVERS: THIS IS YOUR HEADQUARTERS. This is your home for the weird, the wonderful, the whoa. Discover four floors of amazement from the natural world, with free movies included with admission.

The awe-inspiring diversity of nature in our region— from millions of years ago to today—is here to be explored in one place. When you visit The Nat, you’re helping preserve this amazing place we call home.

We all need some nature in our lives.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: COURTESY THE HEIGHTS; GARY PAYNE; SAM ZAUSCHER

Nature’s everywhere we look, and that’s why we’re here for nature. See for yourself at sdnat.org.

WE’RE HERE FOR NATURE.

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MAGAZINE

PUBLISHER

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CHINA BEFORE COMMUNISM

“This is my 4th time coming here. Breathtaking!

I am deeply inspired and profoundly moved!”

—Rita Cosby, Emmy Award-winning journalist

Shen Yun Performing Arts, a New York-based non-profit organization, weaves the wisdom and virtues of 5,000 years of Chinese civilization onto the stage, free from communist influence.

“ I’ve reviewed about 4,000 shows.

None can compare to what I saw tonight.”

—Richard Connema, Broadway critic

“An extraordinary experience… exquisitely beautiful.”

—Cate Blanchett, Academy Award-winning Actress

“Magnificent. Very enlightening, absolutely beautiful. I highly recommend it to anyone.”

—Tony Robbins, world-renowned author & speaker

“Shen Yun” means “the beauty of divine beings dancing.” You’ll experience classical Chinese dance, stunning visuals, and original orchestral music, taking you on a mesmerizing journey through time and space. Prepare for a truly heartwarming and mind-blowing experience that’ll stick with you.

See It At Least Once In Your Lifetime. Hurry for Tickets!

JAN 16–18 (Tue-Thu) Tue 7:30pm, Wed 7:30pm, Thu 2pm

California Center for the Arts, Escondido

JAN 19–21 (Fri-Sun) Fri 7:30pm, Sat 2pm & 7:30pm, Sun 2pm

San Diego Civic Theatre

Get Tickets:

ShenYun.com/SD

1.888.973.7469 All-New Production. A Perfect Holiday Gift. Call 1.888.973.7469 for Group Tickets.

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IN TH E W I N G S

HOLIDAY CHEER HEAD TO JOAN B. KROC Theatre on Dec. 14, when the San Diego Concert Band performs its MUSIC popular annual holiday concert: “Season of Joy.” sandiegoconcertband.com San Diego Symphony presents its holiday series, Noel Noel, Dec. 15-17 at The Rady Shell. The San Diego Master Chorale and San Diego Children’s Choir join the orchestra for a family-friendly evening of holiday classics under the stars. theshell.org San Diego Musical Theatre brings us Plaid Tidings, the holiday spinoff of the 1950s homage jukebox musical Forever Plaid, through Dec. 24. The legendary Francis, Jinx, Smudge and Sparky at first aren’t really sure why they’ve been brought back to Earth for another posthumous performance. A phone call from a ghostly Rosemary Clooney sets them straight about their mission to spread holiday joy—with a program of holiday hits that have been “Plaid-erized.” sdmt.org Ensemble Mannheim Steamroller stops at the Civic Theatre on Dec. 28 for its “Mannheim Steamroller Christmas” concert by Grammy Award-winner Chip Davis—performing rousing holiday classics and other select compositions. broadwaysd.com

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L-R: COURTESY SAN DIEGO MUSICAL THEATRE; © MATT CHRISTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

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Mannheim Steamroller in concert. Opposite: San Diego Musical Theatre’s endearing staging of Plaid Tidings.

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IN TH E W I N G S

Glowing Holiday Gardens AFTER THE SUN sets in Encinitas, go walking in a winter wonderland at San Diego Botanic Garden, host of Lightscape. The widely acclaimed show has been reimagined for its second year—transforming the Garden into an illuminated, 1-mile walking trail, filled with stunning installations created by artists across the globe. The one-of-a-kind experience merges nature and art—comprising light tunnels, lanterns, glowing California poppies and other immersive light installations that come to life with vibrant color and sound. Lightscape runs through Jan. 1, but not to worry if you miss it: The property offers 37 acres of enchanting gardens and paths; and hosts artsy events and experiences year-round. 300 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, 760.436.3036, sdbg.org

San Diego Ballet’s The Nutcracker; glowing flowers at San Diego Botanic Garden’s Lightscape.

SPECIAL EVENT

BALLET

THE HOLIDAY SEASON just isn’t complete without Tchaikovsky’s timeless ballet, The Nutcracker. And San Diego’s top classical ballet companies bring us the music and stunning classic choreography of Clara’s magical trip through the Kingdom of Sweets. Golden State Ballet once again takes over the Civic Theatre Dec. 15-24, choreographed by artistic director Raul Salamanca. The production features live music from the San Diego Symphony—with John Stubbs as music director and principal conductor, and Dana Zimbric

as conductor. goldenstateballet.org San Diego Ballet dances into The Magnolia performing arts theater in El Cajon for just one night only on Dec. 16; the ballet boasts more than 100 exquisitely costumed dancers. sandiegoballet.org City Ballet of San Diego, recipient of the Tommy Award for “Best Nutcracker” in town, presents Elizabeth Wistrich’s elegant choreography, accompanied by the City Ballet Orchestra, conducted by John Nettles—staged at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido, Dec. 21-23. cityballet.org

FROM LEFT: COURTESY LIGHTSCAPE; CANELA PHOTOGRAPHY

The Nutcracker Returns

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World-class performance brilliantly played.

Get ready for an interlude of riotous laughter as Jefferson McDonald and Matthew McGloin take us on a musical comedic journey about their would-be careers as concert pianists. The talented duo trade stories about piano lessons, pushy parents, and eccentric teachers while playing everything from Bach to Billy Joel.

RETURN ENGAGEMENT

DEC 15 – 31, 2023

FROM LEFT: COURTESY LIGHTSCAPE; CANELA PHOTOGRAPHY

“A heartfelt tale of belonging, love and survival.”

Two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning dramatist Lynne Nottage has stitched together a powerful tale of humor, heartbreak, and resiliency. In this deeply affecting story, we are taken into the world of a lonely, talented Black seamstress, living in a Manhattan boardinghouse in 1905 but dreaming of a more fulfilling life. A powerful American story!

JAN 10 – FEB 4, 2024 tickets (858) 481-1055 | northcoastrep.org group sales (858) 481-2155, x202

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IN TH E W I N G S

From top: Cygnet Theatre’s A Christmas Carol; Andrew Polec returns as The Grinch.

THEATER

STEP INSIDE A VICTORIAN Christmas card and follow the cantankerous Ebenezer Scrooge through a ghost-filled night with Cygnet Theatre’s A Christmas Carol, Dec. 1-30. Adapted and directed

by Sean Murray (who also portrays Scrooge for the second time), the show features original music by Billy Thompson, live sound effects and puppetry. cygnettheatre.com Performing its impressive holiday double duty, The Old Globe presents the hilarious Ebenezer Scrooge’s BIG

San Diego Christmas Show, through Dec. 24. Set in San Diego circa 1919, it’s a fast-paced parody of the epic Dickens play—featuring the Ghosts of Christmases Past, Present and Future. The Globe’s beloved musical Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! runs through Dec. 31, with Andrew Polec back as The Grinch. theoldglobe.org Comedic duo Jefferson McDonald and Matthew McGloin return to North Coast Rep to perform their hysterical show: 2 Pianos 4 Hands, Dec. 15-31. northcoastrep.org

FROM TOP: KARLI CADEL PHOTOGRAPHY; RICH SOUBLET II

DECEMBER DELIGHTS

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FROM TOP: KARLI CADEL PHOTOGRAPHY; RICH SOUBLET II

FEATUR E

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New Beginnings

Amid Its “Metamorphosis” Season, La Jolla Symphony & Chorus Welcomes Sameer Patel

by STEPHANIE SAAD THOMPSON

i

T’S ONLY FITTING that the collective name of La Jolla Symphony & Chorus’ concerts on Dec. 9 and 10 is New Beginnings, as they officially mark the start of a new era at the organization with Sameer Patel as co-Music Director and Orchestra Conductor.

With an Executive Director, Stephanie Weaver Yankee, of just four years—three of which were impacted by the pandemic lockdown and its aftermath—and a co-Music Director and Chorus Conductor, Arian Khaefi, named just last season, you could say it’s a new beginning for the entire leadership of the organization.

La Jolla Symphony & Chorus (LJS&C) has been an independent nonprofit affiliate of UC San Diego for nearly 70 years (although it receives no support from the university aside from a place to rehearse). In addition to performing, it sponsors an annual Young

SAM ZAUSCHER

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Artists Competition, an annual commission of a new work for orchestra and/or chorus; and provides music education to San Diego K-12 schools. Under its longtime former Music Director Steven Schick, LJS&C developed a reputation for performing innovative, modern works, as well as the great classics. It operates with a roster of 230 volunteers—including a world-renowned marine biologist on bassoon, a famous physicist, doctors, surgeons, a judge and a trial lawyer. That’s just a few of the dozens of professions represented in the ensemble that performs six concerts per year at Mandeville Auditorium; as well as myriad community concerts in other venues.

To participate in the orchestra and chorus, UC San Diego students can enroll for credit through the music department, but do not need to be music majors. Players are selected by audition, and are held to a high

Sameer Patel, La Jolla Symphony & Chorus’ new co-Music Director and Orchestra Conductor.

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FEATUR E

I

M Jo understands the dynamic of a community orchestra, which is very different from a professional one. These musicians are college students or professionals who have found a way to keep music as part of their lives. They are all volunteers—not paid. In fact, some professional musicians play with us because of the level and repertoire we present.”

Patel, who is Artistic Director of the San Diego Youth Symphony (SDYS), plans to stay on in that role as well. “I see this as an opportunity to dig even deeper and to have a greater impact on the entire San Diego artistic and education community by doing both,” he says. Founded in 1945, the San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory is the sixth oldest continuously operating youth symphony in the U.S.; and offers /CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 programs from

Con

COURTESY LA JOLLA SYMPHONY & CHORUS

La Jolla Symphony & Chorus performs six concerts each year at UC San Diego’s Mandeville Auditorium.

standard of performance. Overall, students make up about 20% of the orchestra and chorus; the rest are volunteers from the community. Weaver Yankee notes, “The audition is the same for amateur or professional, and it’s tough. We are the go-to ensemble in our area for high-level, high-achieving performers who want to keep music in their lives but not necessarily as professional musicians.”

Patel is no stranger to the organization, having developed a warm relationship with Schick and been invited to guest conduct on a number of occasions. “In Sameer we found somebody who was willing to really connect to the community,” says Weaver Yankee, who helped lead the search for a new Music Director and Orchestra Conductor. “Part of our mission is to find new audiences in untraditional places to perform. Sameer

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LOGO MARC

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MAY 7, 2024 Joshua Bell & Larisa Martinez

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COURTESY LA JOLLA SYMPHONY & CHORUS

Package 1 2 Intimate Classics Concerts, 20% off Package 2 2 Intimate Classics Concerts plus Joshua Bell, 25% off LOGOS MARCH 10, 2024

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Cristian Fatu & Evangelyia Delizonas -Khukhua MARCH 30, 2024

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heart transplant Patient learn about Mario's story

Mario went to the hospital with a stomachache. He ended up needing a new heart. After just two days on the donor waitlist and four months of recovery, this eighth grader is back on track to being a kid.

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LETTER FROM THE GENERAL DIRECTOR CARTA DEL DIRECTOR GENERAL Bienvenidos a esta función de El Milagro del Recuerdo.

Welcome to this performance of El Milagro del Recuerdo.

DAVID BENNETT General Director

This is the third in a trilogy of mariachi operas that have been produced by San Diego Opera, and we are thrilled to bring this heartwarming and poignant work here today. We are also immensely proud to be co-producers of this work with Houston Grand Opera and Arizona Opera.

El Milagro del Recuerdo focuses on the sacrifices that we are asked to make for those that we love, and the power of miracles and of memory.

It is also a holiday opera – during this time of celebration, music plays an important role for all of us. So, it’s very fitting that opera be a part of it, and what better way to celebrate than through the expressive power of singing?

This is the first of three operas that we are producing this season at the San Diego Civic Theatre. We hope you return for thrilling performances of Don Giovanni and Madama Butterfly this spring.

Thank you for attending. Happy holidays!

Esta es la tercera de una trilogía de óperas de mariachi producida por San Diego Opera, y estamos muy contentos de tener un trabajo tan alentador y emotivo aquí hoy. Nos enorgullece enormemente también el ser coproductores de este espectáculo con Houston Grand Opera y Arizona Opera.

El Milagro del Recuerdo se enfoca en los sacrificios que debemos tomar en pro de aquellos que amamos, y en el poder de los milagros y de la memoria.

También es una ópera de temporada – durante este tiempo de celebración la música juega un rol importante para todos nosotros. Entonces, es muy pertinente que la ópera sea parte de ello, y que mejor manera de celebrar que a través del poder expresivo del canto.

Esta es la primera de tres óperas que produciremos esta temporada en San Diego Civic Theatre. Los esperamos para las emocionantes funciones de Don Giovanni y Madama Butterfly en la primavera.

Agradecemos su asistencia. ¡Felices fiestas!

David Bennett, Director General

David Bennett, General Director

ABOUT SAN DIEGO OPERA MISSION

CORE VALUES

The mission of San Diego Opera is to deliver exceptional performances and exciting, accessible programs to diverse audiences, focusing on community partnerships, and the transformative and expressive power of the human voice.

Through excellence in innovative programming and education and a commitment to equity, San Diego Opera provides a lasting cultural service to our diverse community.

VISION San Diego Opera will be recognized globally as a leading example of adaptability, innovation and sustainability, promoting diversity on stage, in our repertoire, and in our staff and leadership, with a commitment to world-class and emerging talent, and innovative use of technology.

• Our tradition of exceptional productions of grand opera is augmented with new expressions of opera in diverse settings.

• Our deep commitment to our community propels us to embrace inclusivity, accessibility and affordability.

• Through fiscal responsibility and nimble adaptation to changing environments, we ensure the future of San Diego Opera for our community.

CONNECT WITH US SanDiegoOpera

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233 A Street, Suite 500 | San Diego, CA 92101 | T: 619-232-7636 | F: 619-231-6915 | info@sdopera.org Visit

sdopera.org or call Patron Services 619-533-7000 PERFORMANCES MAGAZINE P1

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2023 / 24 SEASON

Music by Javier Martínez | Libretto by Leonard Foglia Lead Production Sponsor – Entravision Co-Production Sponsors – David Duthu | Sally and Einar Gall

CIVIC THEATRE December 1 – 7:30 pm | December 3 – 2:00 pm Sung in Spanish with English and Spanish text projected above the stage.

PERFORMERS Renata Laurentino Chucho Lupita Padre Matías La Mujer Aba Josefina Araceli Rafael Silvio Young Laurentino Young Renata Mariachi 1 Vihuela Mariachi 2 Guitarra Mariachi 3 Guitarrón

Sishel Claverie* Federico de Michelis* Bernardo Bermudez Vanessa Alonzo Felipe Prado Guadalupe Paz Hector Vasquez Claudia Chapa Isabella Estrada* Dhani Solorio* Dorian Aroche* Luke Suarez* Kayla Vasquez* Mario Eguia* Victor Viberos* Jorge Flores*

CREATIVE TEAM Conductor Production by Stage Manager Assistant Director Musical Preparation Set Designer Costume Designer Lighting Designer Sound Designer Wig/Makeup Designer Supertitle Coordinator

James Lowe* Leonard Foglia Peter Nictakis* Beth Krynicki* Bruce Stasyna Neil Patel* Gregory Gale* Ken Billington* Steven Leffue* Peter Herman Abigail Allwein

Commissioned by Houston Grand Opera Premiered by Houston Grand Opera in December, 2019 A Co-Production of San Diego Opera, Houston Grand Opera and Arizona Opera Run Time: 75 Minutes

*San Diego Opera debut

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***Program subject to change***

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ra

ABOUT THE SHOW Christmas Eve, 1962 and in a small town in Michoacán, Mexico, the tight-knit community is rehearsing for their annual pastorela. In this traditional folk drama, a group of shepherds tries to reach the city of Bethlehem to meet baby Jesus by following a bright star that is guiding their way. They are stopped by Satan, who tries to tempt them off their path, but Saint Michael the Archangel defends them from the prince of evil. While some of the older members of the community have performed almost every role over the years, 7 year-old Rafael will be participating in his very first pastorela this year.

The town’s plaza is decorated for the festivities, and townspeople are dressed as angels and shepherds.

Renata and Lupita are best friends, and their husbands are away in the United States, working to help support their families. This is the first time they will be separated for the holidays.

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Es la Nochebuena de 1962 en un pequeño pueblo de Michoacán, México, y la comunidad que es muy unida, está ensayando para su pastorela anual. En este drama folclórico tradicional, un grupo de pastores intenta llegar a la ciudad de Belén para encontrarse con el niño Jesús al seguir una brillante estrella que guía su camino. Son detenidos por Satanás, quien intenta tentarlos y desviar su camino, pero San Miguel Arcángel los defiende del príncipe del mal. Mientras que algunos de los miembros mayores de la comunidad han interpretado casi todos los papeles a lo largo de los años, Rafael, de 7 años, participará en su primera pastorela este año.

La plaza está decorada para las festividades y los habitantes del pueblo están vestidos como ángeles y pastores. Renata y Lupita son mejores amigas, y sus esposos están fuera en Los Estados Unidos trabajando para ayudar a mantener a sus familias. Esta es la primera vez que estarán separados durante las fiestas.

FRIENDS / PATRON CIRCLE of San Diego Opera

Your support brings: • Thrilling opera productions • Free programs for all ages • Free student dress rehearsals Gifts of $100+ receive exclusive behindthe-scenes experiences. A $3,500 Patron Circle gift includes access to our Patron Lounge with refreshments and invitations to cast parties.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT LIZ FITTRO AT 619-533-7030 OR LFITTRO@SDOPERA.ORG, OR VISIT SDOPERA.ORG/SUPPORT Scan QR Code for more information.

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CONDUCTOR’S NOTES / NOTAS DEL CONDUCTOR

BY JAMES LOWE

DE JAMES LOWE

The vibrant dance rhythms and expressive singing of the mariachi tradition come alive in the richly woven score of El Milagro del Recuerdo, composed by Javier Martínez.

Javier’s father, José “Pepe” Martínez, composed the first mariachi opera, Cruzar la Cara de la Luna, which premiered in 2010 at Houston Grand Opera. At that time, Pepe Martínez had been the music director for the famed Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán for 35 years. The traditional instrumentation of violins, vihuela, guitar, guitarrón, trumpets, and harp created his opera’s rich and colorful sound. In Milagro, a prequel to his father’s opera, Javier has three mariachi musicians (vihuela, guitarra, and guitarrón) appear onstage for most of the production.

They sing with each other and in many ensemble numbers with the rest of the principal cast, and they serve an important dramatic function. But perhaps just as crucially, they provide the harmonic foundation and act as a rhythm section for the piece, driving the musical and dramatic story forward. It is also interesting that Javier added violas and a cello to the traditional mariachi ensemble in the pit, further filling out the warmth and richness of tone. The score is wonderfully varied, complete with boleros, rancheras and huapangos. A gifted dramatic composer, Javier Martínez uses these diverse styles to significant effect, with poignant moments such as Renata’s beautiful, aching “Nostotros,” Aba’s comically menacing turn in “El Lamento de Satanás,” the joyous celebration of “Navidad en México,” and the magical lyricism of “Recuerda las Mariposas.” The result is a moving, spirited, and cohesive evening of theater and music bound to live on in the repertory.

Los vibrantes ritmos de baile y el canto expresivo de la tradición del mariachi cobran vida a través de la partitura ricamente tejida de El Milagro del Recuerdo, compuesta por Javier Martínez. El padre de Javier, José “Pepe” Martínez, compuso la primera ópera de mariachi, Cruzar la Cara de la Luna, estrenada en 2010 en la Houston Grand Opera. En aquel tiempo, Pepe Martínez había sido el director musical del famoso Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán durante 35 años. La instrumentación tradicional de violines, vihuela, guitarra, guitarrón, trompetas y arpa creó el sonido rico y colorido de su ópera. En Milagro, una precuela de la ópera de su padre, Javier tiene a tres músicos de mariachi (vihuela, guitarra y guitarrón) en el escenario durante la mayor parte de la producción. Cantan entre ellos y en varios números del ensamble con el resto del elenco principal, desempeñando una función dramática importante. Pero tal vez, igual de trascendente, proporcionan la base armónica y actúan como sección rítmica de la pieza, impulsando la historia musical y dramática. También es interesante que Javier haya agregado violas y un violonchelo al conjunto tradicional de mariachi en el foso, llenando aún más la calidez y la riqueza del tono. La partitura es maravillosamente variada, completa de boleros, rancheras y huapangos. Un talentoso compositor dramático, Javier Martínez utiliza estos diversos estilos con un efecto significativo, a través de momentos conmovedores como el hermoso y dolido “Nosotros” de Renata, el turno cómicamente amenazante de Aba con “El Lamento de Satanás”, la alegre celebración de “Navidad en México” y el lirismo mágico de “Recuerda las Mariposas”.

El resultado es una noche conmovedora, enérgica y cohesionada de teatro y música destinada a perdurar en el repertorio.

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ARTISTS VANESSA ALONZO, Lupita Company appearances: Lupita, Cruzar la Cara de la Luna (2013); Juana, El Pasado Nunca Se Termina (2015). Notable appearances: Lupita, El Milagro del Recuerdo (world-premiere, Houston Grand Opera, Arizona Opera); Lupita, Cruzar La Cara de La Luna/ To Cross the Face of the Moon (world-premiere, Houston Grand Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Arizona Opera, Fort Worth Opera, New York City Opera, El Paso Opera, Théâtre du Châtelet, Teatro Nacional Sucre Quito Ecuador); Juana, El Pasado Nunca Se Termina (world-premiere, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Houston Grand Opera, Fort Worth Opera); soloist, Houston Grand Opera Ball; Minnesota Opera’s Ópera Afuera at Allianz Field; Austin Opera’s Concerts at the Consulate; Southbend Symphony Orchestra. Lead female vocalist in the Houston-based Latin-fusion group Los Guerreros de La Musica. Television: El Show de Cristina, Festival de Rancheras (Univision); Tengo Talento, Mucho Talento (Esterella TV); Encuentro Internacional del Mariachi y Charrería in Guadalajara, Jalisco.

DORIAN AROCHE Company debut. The story of Dorian Aroche joining the prestigious San Diego Opera is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the pursuit of dreams. He has been involved in the theatre arts ever since he developed a passion for making videos reviewing candy, freaky fruits, and wacky toys. He started his journey at San Diego Junior Theatre at the age of six, then joined Gary Spatz’s The Playground drama school in LA for a summer camp, and even auditioned for a Disney+ production last year. He joined Playground Players Productions in Coronado in 2022 where he performed in musicals such as Seussical Jr. as Mr. Mayor, Peter Pan Jr. as Mr. Darling, and Beauty and the Beast as the Beast. Dorian continues to grow and challenge himself, and we couldn’t be more proud.

BERNARDO BERMUDEZ, Chucho (Tenor) Company appearances: soloist, One Amazing Night: When I See Your Face Again (2021), The Messenger, Aida (2020), Dancairo, Carmen (2019), Soloist/Ensemble, All Is Calm (2018 and 2020), Soloist/Ensemble, Maria de Buenos Aires (2018), Crippled Sailor, Florencia en el Amazonas (2018), Prince Yamadori, Madama Butterfly (2016). Notable roles: Pleasure, The Romance of The Rose (world premiere); Laurentino, Mark, Cruzar la Cara de la Luna; Don Jose, Carmen; Diego Rivera, Frida; Figaro, The Barber of Seville; Stanley Kowalski, A Streetcar Named Desire; Danilo, The Merry Widow; Don Giovanni, Don Giovanni; Count Almaviva, The Marriage of Figaro; Vidal, Luisa Fernanda. Notable appearances: Los Angeles Opera, Long Beach Opera, Anchorage Opera, Portland Opera, Opera Santa Barbara, El Paso Opera, Pacific Opera Project, Opera North, Union Avenue Opera, The San Diego Symphony, La Jolla Symphony, Livermore Valley Opera, Opera North, Opera NEO, The Music Academy of the West. bernardobermudez.com

CLAUDIA CHAPA, Josefina (Mezzo-soprano) Company appearances: La Badessa/ Zita, The Puccini Duo (2023).

Notable appearances: Josefina, El Milagro del Recuerdo (Houston Grand Opera, Arizona Opera); Fricka, Waltraute, The Valkyrie (Virginia Opera); Berta, The Barber of Seville (Austin Opera); Gertrude, Roméo et Juliette (Opera San Antonio); Filipyevna, Eugene Onegin (The Dallas Symphony); alto soloist, Missa Solemnis (National Philharmonic); Mother Superior, The Sound of Music (Charlottesville Opera); Alisa, Lucia di Lammermoor (Opera San Antonio, Winter Opera St. Louis); Marcellina, The Marriage of Figaro (Opera Delaware); Penny, Penny (Opera Grand Rapids); Fenena, Nabucco (West Bay Opera); Azucena, Il trovatore (St. Petersburg Opera Company, Winter Opera St. Louis, Opera in Williamsburg); Ortrud, Lohengrin, Hedwige, William Tell (Opera Southwest); Mary, The Flying Dutchman, Dryade, Ariadne auf Naxos (Austin Opera); the Fairy Godmother, Alma Deutscher’s Cinderella (Opera San Jose); Berta, The Barber of Seville (San Antonio Opera); Zita, Gianni Schicchi, Principessa, Suor Angelica (St. Petersburg Opera).

PERFORMANCES MAGAZINE P5

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ARTISTS SISHEL CLAVERIE, Renata (Mezzo-soprano) Company debut. Notable appearances: soloist, Bernstein’s Mass (National Symphony Orchestra); Carmen/ Lola, Chinese Laundry (film); Weird Sisters, Lady M (Heartbeat Opera); soloist, electronic sound design, Carmelita, Rosenthal’s Dear Erich (world-premiere, New York City Opera); Fia Landau’s Pietá (world-premiere, Experiments in Opera); Gloria, Everything for Dawn (video series, Experiments in Opera); Maria, Maria de Buenos Aires, Daniela, The Heights (Skylight Music Theatre); Carmen (Heartbeat Opera). sishelclaverie.com

FEDERICO DE MICHELIS, Laurentino (Bass-baritone) Company debut. Notable appearances: Colline, La bohème (Gran Teatre del Liceu Barcelona, Seattle Opera, Houston Grand Opera); soloist, Symphony No. 9 (Greensboro Symphony Orchestra); Leporello, Don Giovanni (Florida Grand Opera); Balthazar, La Favorite (Houston Grand Opera); Don Magnifico, Cinderella (New Generation Festival Florence Italy); soloist, Handel’s Messiah (North Carolina Symphony); Colline, Achilla, Giulio Cesare, Dr. Dulcamara, The Elixir of Love, Nourabad, The Pearl Fishers (Houston Grand Opera); Nourabad (Gran Teatre del Liceu); Mr. Flint, Billy Budd (Central City Opera); Figaro, The Marriage of Figaro (Palm Beach Opera); Brander, La damnation de Faust (Aspen Music Festival); Mr. Flint, Timur, Turandot (Des Moines Metro Opera); Sciarrone, Tosca (Philadelphia Orchestra); soloist, Mass in C minor (North Carolina Symphony). demichelisfederico.com

MARIO CESAR EGUIA, Mariachi (Vihuela) Company Debut. Born in Los Angeles in 1986, Mario embarked on his musical journey at age 14. He initially played tuba in a marching band and guitar in the local youth group Mariachi Mixteco in Imperial Valley. He performed with professional groups in the local and San Diego areas early on. Mario served two tours in Iraq with the United States Navy. Upon returning, he moved to San Diego, earning an associate degree in music education with a Mariachi Specialization certificate from Southwestern College. Currently, he teaches Mariachi at National City Middle School. He is a member of Mariachi Champana Nevin, performing internationally with orchestras and soloists like Monica Abrego, Lalo de la Mora, Lupita Infante, and Juan Mendoza. Mario’s recent activities include guest vihuela performances with the San Diego Symphony, guitar recordings on various albums, guest instruction at mariachi workshops, mariachi arrangement composition, and educational outreach programs at local schools.

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ISABELLA ESTRADA Company Debut. Isabella loves sports and for the past two years has performed a duo contortion act with her best friend, as well as an acrobatics routine in the Fern Street Circus. She has also been swimming with a USA swim team since she was five years old. In her free time, she likes to draw, paint, and write. She is very excited and thankful for this new opportunity to perform with the San Diego Opera and learn from this experience.

JORGE FLORES, Mariachi (Guitarron) Company Debut. With over two decades immersed in the world of mariachi music, Jorge’s expertise extends beyond the bass, showcasing proficiency in the violin, guitar, and Vihuela.

Originating from a non-musical family, Jorge embarked on his musical journey in middle school, and this passion has been a constant pursuit throughout his high school years.

Over 15+ years, Jorge has contributed his musical talents to esteemed ensembles such as Mariachi Sol de Mexico and Mariachi Vargaz, collaborating with a myriad of artists on creative projects. His musical journey includes recording with chart-topping artists like El Buki, Vicente Fernandez, and Alejandro Fernandez and touring alongside Luis Miguel during his US tour. Jorge’s excellence in the field has earned him GRAMMY® Award nominations, a testament to his fruitful collaboration with the illustrious group Sol De Mexico for over a decade.

GUADALUPE PAZ, La Mujer (Mezzo-soprano) Company appearances: Mercedes, Carmen (2019); Frida Kahlo, El último sueño de Frida y Diego (2022), La Maestra Dele Novizie, Suor Angelica (2023). Notable appearances: Melibea, Il Viaggio a Reims; Hansel, Hansel and Gretel (Bellas Artes National Opera); Rosina, The Barber of Seville, Angelina; Cinderella (Teatro del Bicentenario, Bellas Artes National Opera); Isolier, Le Comte Ory (Philharmonic Orchestra of Jalisco); Maddalena, Il Viaggio a Reims (Rossini Opera Festival); soloist, Glagolitic Mass (International Cervantino Festival); soloist, Ode to Common Things (La Jolla Symphony and Chorus); soloist, Tres Canciones para Orquestra y Mezzosoprano (International Festival Instrumenta); soloist, Seven Deadly Sins (Aspen Music Festival). glfcam.com/guadalupe-paz

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ARTISTS FELIPE PRADO, Padre Matias (Tenor) Company appearances: Remendado, Carmen (2019), Second Villager, El último sueño de Frida y Diego (2023). Notable appearances: Spoletta, Tosca (Guild Opera); Borsa, Rigoletto, Gastone/Giuseppe, La traviata (Antelope Valley Symphony Orchestra and Master Chorale); Tamino, The Magic Flute (Ridgecrest Opera Guild); Alfredo, La traviata (Pacific Lyric Association); soloist (California Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorale). felipeprado.weebly.com

DHANI SOLORIO Company debut. Dhani is excited to be making his SD Opera debut.

Dhani’s prior performances include Junie B. Jones the Musical (YAT), The Theology of Broadway and Be Not Afraid (University Christian Church), and various plays, dances, and performances at school and church.

Dhani is a talented artist who also loves to draw and sculpt. His artwork was featured in the 2022 art exhibit Transfronterizo Lens at the Centro Cultural de la Raza. In his spare time you can find him building LEGO creations, reading, or making iMovie animations. He thanks all those who welcomed him to this stage and made this production possible!

LUKE SUAREZ Company debut. Luke is very excited to participate in the San Diego Opera. Luke has performed in The Little Mermaid, Shrek, The Lion King, and Mary Poppins musicals at Kroc Junior Theater. He plays the piano and violin. He loves art, baking and gardening, and enjoys playing soccer, tennis and with Legos.

HÉCTOR VÁSQUEZ, Aba (Baritone) Company appearances: Capitán, Florencia en la Amazonas (2018).

Notable appearances: Aba, El Recuerdo del Milagro, Emperor Altoum, Turandot, Benoît/Alcindoro, La bohème, George Benton, Dead Man Walking, Scarpia, Tosca, Rigoletto, Rigoletto, Forester, The Cunning Little Vixen, Alvaro, Florencia en el Amazonas, Schaunard, La bohème (Houston Grand Opera). Appearances with: Metropolitan Opera, San Francisco Opera, Utah Opera, Seattle Opera, Opera Colorado, Los Angeles Opera, Los Angeles Philharmonic, San Francisco Symphony, Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival, Ojai Festival. claytonvasquez.com

KAYLA VASQUEZ Company debut. Making her first appearance at the San Diego Civic Center and proudly joining the San Diego Opera with this groundbreaking Christmas Mariachi Opera; Kayla is overjoyed and honored to be a part of this year’s show. With Mexican roots and proud of her indigenous background, she hopes to fill and warm your heart this holiday season as we all share dreams for a better tomorrow. Kayla is caring, loving and bright 9 year old who has a has a heart of gold that is sure to melt your heart!

As a San Diego native she has performed at her local school talent show, broadcast club, SD YMCA ballet, San Diego Junior Theatre and San Diego Kroc Center Theater; Most recently starring in their The Little Mermaid production as a Merfolk. Her dreams are to contribute to the Opera and Broadway scene, become a GRAMMY® recording artist and hit the big screen while inspiring others to follow their drama and never give up. With 5 years in the industry Kayla understands the hard work and dedication it takes to be a part of a production like this and promises to deliver!

VICTOR VIBEROS, Mariachi (Guitarra) Company Debut. Victor is a professional mariachi musician and founder and musical director of Mariachi Nueva Tradicion SD. In 2016, Victor joined the longest-running local Mariachi group Mariachi Real de San Diego and learned how to play guitarron and trumpet under the leadership of Pedro Gonzalez. The same year, he joined Mariachi Real de San Diego. Victor also joined the mariachi class at Southwestern College under the instruction of Dr. Jeff Nevin. In 2020, he graduated from SDSU’s School of Music and Dance with a bachelor’s in music, with an emphasis on voice. He is currently a guitar teacher at Chula Vista Middle School in the School of Creative and Performing Arts program and possesses a master’s in education from National University. Victor looks forward to performing and teaching worldwide to share his love for mariachi music with everyone!

PERFORMANCES MAGAZINE P7

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ARTISTS KEN BILLINGTON, Lighting Designer Company Debut. Theatre, television and architecture designer. Over 100 Broadway designs include the original production of Sweeney Todd and Chicago (27 years). Other projects The Radio City Music Hall Christmas Show (27 years). 100 opera productions worldwide including New York City Opera, Chicago Lyric, San Francisco, Houston, Dallas, Los Angeles Opera, San Diego Opera, Milan’s La Scalla, Madrid’s Theatro Real and Paris Opera Bastillle. The architectural lighting for New York’s Tavern on the Green and 54 Below as well as the original Fantasmic! at Disneyland California, and numerous shows for Seaworld Parks in Florida, California and Texas. Awards include Tony, Luman (architecture), Ace (television). Ken was inducted into the Theatre Hall of Fame in 2015.

LEONARD FOGLIA, Director/Librettist San Diego Opera: Moby-Dick (director, 2012), Cruzar la Cara de la Luna (director/librettist, 2013), El Pasado Nunca Se Termina (director/librettist, 2015). Broadway: Master Class (also West End); Thurgood (filmed for HBO); The People in the Picture. Broadway revivals: The Gin Game; On Golden Pond; Wait Until Dark. Regional work: Unusual Acts of Devotion; Distracted; Paper Doll; The Secret Letters of Jackie and Marilyn; The Subject Was Roses; A Coffin in Egypt; God’s Man in Texas. Opera: Moby-Dick (world-premiere, filmed for PBS, Dallas Opera, San Francisco Opera); Everest (world-premiere, Dallas Opera); Cold Mountain (world-premiere, Santa Fe Opera); The End of the Affair (world-premiere, Houston Grand Opera, etc.); Three Decembers (world-premiere, Houston Grand Opera).

Other: Dead Man Walking (nationally).

GREGORY GALE, Costume Designer Company Debut. Gregory is an award-winning multidisciplinary creator and designer working in film, television, theater, opera, dance, and fashion styling. Winner of two Lucille Lortel Awards for Fairycakes and The Voysey Inheritance.

Nominated for two Tony Awards, 5 Lucille Lortell Awards, 3 Drama Desk Awards, and 5 Henry Hewes Design Awards. Recipient of the Irene Sharaff Young Master Award. Opera designs include La Rondine and An American Soldier (Opera Theater of Saint Louis), The Prince of Players, El Milagro del Recuerdo, Romeo et Juliette (Houston Grand Opera), The Magic Flute (Chicago Opera Theater), Camelot (Virginia Opera). Recent films include the contemporary drama The Mental State, and the film short Real Drag. Current projects include Romeo et Juliette (Dallas Opera), World Premieres of The Little Match Girl and Ibsen’s Ghost (Off-Broadway, NYC).

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JAMES LOWE, Conductor Company debut. Grammy nominated conductor, arranger, orchestrator and composer James Lowe continues to garner praise for “beautifully sculpted” (Opera News) performances. He appears regularly with major opera houses in the US and abroad, as well as on Broadway.

This season he will make debuts at the Teatro Lirico di Cagliari, Atlanta Opera, and Lyric Opera of Kansas City, and will return to Lyric Opera of Chicago and Arizona Opera. He recently conducted the world premiere of Ricky Ian Gordon and Michael Korie’s The Garden of the Finzi-Continis with New York City Opera at the National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene. He arranged, orchestrated and conducted Songbird, a new adaptation of Offenbach’s La Périchole in the style of 1920’s New Orleans jazz for the Glimmerglass Festival. Songbird will also be produced this season by Washington National Opera at the Kennedy Center, starring Isabel Leonard and Ramin Karimloo, as well as at Milwaukee’s Florentine Opera. He has also appeared at San Francisco Opera, Houston Grand Opera, the Théâtre du Capitole in Toulouse and Opéra National de Bordeaux. For more information visit jameslowemusic.com.

JAVIER MARTÍNEZ, Composer Company debut. Notable: director/ recordings, Mariachi Agaveros, Mariachi Juvenil Camperos, Mariachi Gallos de Mexico, Mariachi Azteca, Mariachi Los Charros de Ameca. Appearances with Miguel, Jeni Rivera, Pablo Montero, Leo Dan, Aida Cuevas, Rocío Dúrcal, Grupo Exterminador; music director, Cruzar la Cara de la Luna/To Cross the Face of the Moon (Diana Theater in Guadalajara, Mexico).

NEIL PATEL, Set Designer Company Debut. Neil designed the world premiere of Madame Mao for the Santa Fe Opera, Alcina and Norma for the Washington National Opera and Los Angeles Opera, El Milagro del Recuerdo and Maria Stuarda for Houston Grand Opera, Anna Bolena for the Lyric Opera of Chicago, The Crucible for the Glimmerglass Festival and the Mozart Daponte cycle directed by Amon Miyamoto for the Nikikai Opera in Tokyo. Recent projects: Dickinson for AppleTV+, Civilization to Nation: The Great Indian Musical for the opening of the NMAAC in Mumbai and David Byrne’s Theater of the Mind. Notable: His extensive work in theater, film and televison includes the TONY Awardwinning Side Man and [title of show] on Broadway, the Peabody Award-winning In Treatment for HBO and Father Comes Home from the Wars at the Royal Court in London.

11/15/23 2:31 PM

Honoring

Robert Kaplan &Marina Baroff Save the Date Saturday, January 27, 2024 Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine

Opera Ball for All 2024 Chair Clarice Perkins For more information sdopera.org/operaball | 619-232-7636

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EDUCATION

FREE DRESS REHEARSALS FOR STUDENTS San Diego Opera presented its first production, Puccini’s La bohème, on May 5th, 1965 at the newly opened San Diego Civic Theatre. Two of the four performances were specifically for high school students, thus beginning a tradition of bringing students to opera that has lasted over 60 years!

Seats are still available for the upcoming free Student Night at the Opera: • Don Giovanni on January 31 • Madama Butterfly on April 24 Tickets are FREE and reimbursement for bus transportation expenses is available!

Any group of organized youth is eligible for this FREE opera experience. All that is required is a dedicated adult group organizer with a passion for introducing opera to young San Diegans in grades 3-12.

Student Night is not just for music students! We all need meaningful artistic experiences, including our future scientists, activists, health care professionals, hospitality and service industry professionals, civil servants, writers, coders, engineers, data analysts, and educators.

Teachers of any subject and any grade between 3 and 12 are encouraged to attend Student Night at the Opera.

Any organized group is welcome, including: • After-school clubs • Music and theater ensembles • Nonprofits • Public, private, and home schools • Scout troops • Service clubs • Social service programs • Sports teams Build community and be inspired by this beautiful art form! Visit the San Diego Opera website to request tickets while they last!

Scan QR Code for more information.

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P10 PERFORMANCES MAGAZINE

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Don Giovanni

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Joshua Guerrero & Andrea Carroll Opera favorites, passionate duets, and plenty of surprises from two young singers full of warmth and personality.

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11/15/23 11:51 AM

A NOTE FROM CREATOR

BY LEONARD FOGLIA

DE LEONARD FOGLIA

WEAVING PASTORELA MAGIC INTO A MARIACHI CHRISTMAS OPERA

ENTRETEJIENDO LA MAGIA DE LA PASTORELA CON UNA ÓPERA NAVIDEÑA DE MARIACHI

Next door to my home in Queretaro, Mexico, was an outdoor theater that performed a pastorela every Christmas. I would go up to my roof and watch the performances where I could view both the stage and the audience. I was fascinated by how the broad comic aspects which were played up for the children (as well as adults) eventually gave way to the reverential leading up to the birth of Jesus. The change in styles halfway was so different from how the Christmas story is told in most parts of the world, but watching the audience roaring with laughter at the ridiculous and silly ways the devil attempts to stop the shepherds from reaching Bethlehem and then how the proceedings morph into a solemn, holy tableau at the end always seems a kind of theatrical alchemy to me.

Junto a mi casa en Querétaro, México, había un teatro al aire libre que representaba una pastorela cada Navidad.

Subía a la azotea y veía las funciones donde pudiera ver tanto el escenario como al público. Estaba fascinado con la amplitud de los aspectos cómicos que funcionaban para los niños (y también para los adultos) dando paso eventualmente a la reverencia que conducía al nacimiento de Jesús. El cambio de estilos en el medio era tan diferente de cómo se cuenta la historia de Navidad en la mayoría de las partes del mundo, pero ver al público morir de risa ante las formas ridículas y simples en las que el diablo intenta detener a los pastores para llegar a Belén y luego cómo los acontecimientos al final se transforman en un cuadro solemne y sagrado, siempre me pareció una especie de alquimia teatral.

When I was asked to create a “Mariachi Christmas Opera,” I knew that the pastorela would be the through line because it involves the whole community coming together.

In this case, though, they are rehearsing a pastorela with mainly women and children because all the men are away working in the United States. We all know how wrenching it is to be separated from those we love. Still, it is always exacerbated by being apart on any special day: a birthday, anniversary, Thanksgiving, but especially Christmas because of its religious as well as communal significance.

Cuando me pidieron escribir una “Ópera Navideña de Mariachi,” supe que la pastorela sería el hilo conductor porque involucra a toda la comunidad a que se una. Aunque, en este caso, están ensayando una pastorela principalmente con mujeres y niños porque todos los hombres están fuera trabajando en los Estados Unidos. Todos sabemos lo doloroso que es estar separados de nuestros seres queridos. Aun así, siempre se ve exacerbado al estar separados en cualquier día especial: un cumpleaños, aniversario, Día de Acción de Gracias, pero especialmente en Navidad debido a su significado religioso y comunal.

I titled this piece El Milagro Del Recuerdo (The Miracle of Remembering). I could have added the words – which is important because it is a miracle to remember what is truly important in life.

Titulé esta pieza El Milagro Del Recuerdo (The Miracle of Remembering). Pude haber agregado las palabras – lo que es importante porque es un milagro el recordar lo realmente significativo en la vida.

”This crèche was the first item I ever purchased in Mexico, long before I lived there. It reminds me of the nativity scene I bought my father in Jerusalem… I wonder where that got to, surely was sold in the estate sale….”

W!

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PERFORMANCES MAGAZINE P13

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OPERA STARS Join the Esther J. Burnham Opera Stars legacy society by making us a part of your estate plans. Lead by example, enjoy exclusive benefits, and shape San Diego Opera’s future.

Contact Peter Shavitz at peter.shavitz@sdopera.org or 619-533-7047 for details.

There is nothing more important to the future of top-quality opera and opera education than the legacy created by forward-thinking patrons and community leaders. — Esther J. Burnham, Founder, Opera Stars

P14 PERFORMANCES MAGAZINE

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EVERY BRAND HAS A STORY TO TELL, THAT’S WHERE WE COME IN. As a proud design partner of San Diego Opera, we invite you to enjoy another season of exceptional performances.

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PERFORMANCES MAGAZINE P15

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JOIN THE STORY OF SAN DIEGO OPERA! THIS IS WHAT A NIGHT AT THE

OPERA LOOKS LIKE...

This production was perfect!

A rare event with fantastic singeractors. Amazing scenery, wonderful orchestra.

Best San Diego Opera performance since I moved down here in 2014! Bravo!

It was truly grand!

Loved it!

Follow us on Social Media and share your experience here with your friends!

SanDiegoOpera

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SanDiegoOpera

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11/15/23 11:53 AM

DONOR LIST SAN DIEGO OPERA IS DEEPLY GRATEFUL TO THE DONORS WHOSE CONTRIBUTIONS MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SEASON SPONSOR $100,000 AND ABOVE City of San Diego

GENERAL DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE $100,000 AND ABOVE

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$50,000 – $99,999

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$25,000 – $49,999

Anonymous Sigrid Pate Butler Joann Clark Dr. and Mrs. Richard Claytor Sally and Einar Gall Joan Henkelmann, in memory of Dr. Charles Henkelmann Ann and Andy Irwin Robert H. Kaplan, Ph. D. and Marina Baroff Leon Lachman Veronica and Miguel Leff Dr. and Mrs. Ronald G. Leonardi Jacqueline B. Mars Anne and Andy McCammon Drs. Roger and Linda Mills William and Clarice Perkins Drs. Gloria and Joseph Shurman Karen Valentino Janet and Jonathan White Ms. Mona Wolpe

*In memoriam

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$15,000 – $24,999

Dan Cameron Family Foundation Teresa* and Dr. Merle Fischlowitz Dr. Steve and Nancy Howard Diana and Eliezer Lombrozo Brett McClain Haydee and Carlos* Mollura William D. Smith and Carol A. Harter Linda P. Spuck Mary L. Walshok, Ph.D.

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Anonymous (2) Robin L. Allgren Bobbie Ball-Bradley Leslie Bassett Warren and Eloise Batts Ingrid Benirschke and Gordon Perkins Carolyn and Giovanni Bertussi Judith V. Brucker Mary Ellen Clark Susan H. and Stephen Childs Elisabeth Crouch Anna M. Curren Donna Van Eekeren Jennifer and Burke Fisher Gertrude Fletcher James Idell and Deborah Streett-Idell Grace E. Larsen Ruth I. Ledermann Jane Polgar in memory of Peter Polgar Peter and Peggy Preuss Dr. Benjamin Ramirez and Ross Russell Sue Sesnon Salt Swanna and Alan Saltiel from the Dan Cameron Family Foundation Leland and Debbie Sandler Stainrook Foundation Susan and Richard Ulevitch Dr. and Mrs. Richard Wagner*

GOLD PATRON $5,000 – $9,999

Patrick Anderson and Ron Koren Jawon Kim and Gary Andrews Doug Bekkedahl Jane and Bob Bell Wallace Brithinee and Bernadette Belleci Michael and Jane Burke Bill Carrick

James M. and Lynn B. Caughey Thérèse Collins and Byron Georgiou Martha and Edward Dennis In memory of Joseph and Vivian Doering Drs. Milton & Susan Erman M. Carr and Marian* Ferguson Alberta Feurzeig Joyce M. Gattas, Ph.D. Peter C. Gernold and Brian J. McGoldrick Lee and Linda Gillard Paul Guckian David and Claire Guggenheim T. George and Jeannie Harris Beau Haugh David S. Johnson David K. Jordan Angela and Matt Kilman Lynn Kirkhofer Linda Levy and Edward McGrath Elizabeth Wohlford MacLeod In Memory of Dave Schubert Joseph Martinez Eugene and Rebecca Mitchell James and Melanie Nickel Michael Novak John and Diane W. Parks Carolyn and Ed Parrish Coreen and Kevin Petti, PhD James Robbins The Sack-Meniktos Family Foundation Margaret R. and Neal Schmale Debra Shannon Heidi Munzinger and John Shott Susan and Fred Smith Robin Angly and Miles Smith Sylvia M. Smith David Snyder Jeanette R. Stevens Annalisa Storchi Sycuan Casino Margaret C. Tessier and Robert J. Griffin Robert and Tamara Thibodeau Robert* and Aysegul Underhill Shirli, Damien, and Justin Weiss Armi and Al Williams Raymond* & Erika* Wright Carmen Figueroa Young Sandra and Peter Zarcades Xinhua Zheng and Richard Studer Leo and Emma Zuckerman

PERFORMANCES MAGAZINE P17

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DONOR LIST SILVER PATRON $3,500 – $4,999

Anonymous Maurine Beinbrink Mrs. Marlin W. Brossart Richard and Stephanie Coutts Ann Craig Jon and Karen Dien Stephen and Roberta Edelstein Donald and Mary Ellen Fleischli Forsyth Leonard Fund at Rancho Santa Fe Foundation Steven Hadfield Mrs. Shirley F. Hoggatt Ronald Ignelzi Sachiko Kohatsu Nancy E. Kossan, Ph.D. and Deborah Macdonald Kathleen Loftman Nancy Lyon Ilene Mittman in memory of Dr. Charles Mittman Chuck and Ann Nickel William and Jensine Nolan Dr. Rebecca Papendick and Jay Savage Jeannie Posner & Nancy Muller Bruce S. Ross and Eileen F. Gallo-Ross Carol Jean Spicer Susan and Dr. Gary Spoto Philip and Phyllis Ziring

BRONZE PATRON $2,000 – $3,499

Anonymous (2) Irene Abraham and Gabriel Vogeli Lou Alpinieri in loving memory of Brenda Alpinieri Brenda Baker and Steve Baum Jack and Sue Ellen Benson Dr. Fred and Mrs. Donna Berger Paul L. Black and Evelyn Truitt Cindy Bruecks Stephen Burgdorf Raedel Calori and Backman Family Constance Carroll, Ph.D. Janet Caulk Neal Chazin Karen DeLaurier and Oliver McElroy Wally and Linda Dieckmann Robert Dotson Drs. Brent and Sarita Eastman Mrs. Phyllis Epstein Antonio Espinosa Dr. Barbara Favorito and Ms. Judith Hairston Socorro Fimbres

P18 PERFORMANCES MAGAZINE

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Paul and Gayle Ganster Michael and Brenda Goldbaum Beth A. Goodman Josh Gruenberg Joleen Guckian Kay and Bill Gurtin Tamara Hauser-Espinoza Harry and Teresa Hixson T.W. and Susan Hoehn Herbert B. Hoffman Joanne C. Hutchinson and David Cooper* Mrs. Phyllis Ingram Johnson & Johnson PRD, L.L.C. Jeannette and Douglas Johnson Thomas Jroski and Dinna Estrella Mr. and Mrs. John Kesser John and Sandy Kim Gale M. Krause Irene Kuster McCann Paul Laikind and Lisa Stennes-Laikind Belina L.* & Paul L.* Lazzar Carl B. and Janet Lind Neil Malmquist and Scott Crispell Beverly and Harold Martyn Andrea Marvin In memory of Elizabeth B. Meyer A. Fenner Milton David Morris Chandra Mukerji Marybeth Norgren Teresa A. Norton Bob Palmer Rafael and Marina Pastor Bernard Paul Keith I. Polakoff Ivan and Jeanette Quiceno Ms. Kathleen Roche-Tansey Elyssa Rosenberg and Dr. Lucian Iancovici Dr. Ross and Nancy T. Rudolph Patricia A. Rutledge Carol and Jack Sanders Hermeen Scharaga Doreen and Myron Schonbrun Barbara Bry and Neil Senturia Mr. and Mrs. William S. Sherrard Robert J. Stall, Jr. & Katherine Nutting Elizabeth and Lester Stiel Stephanie Stolarz-Fantino Captain Don Watkins, USN (Ret.)* and Mrs. Sharon Watkins Bill and Shelley Wong WuXi AppTec Ann L. Zahner Sara Zaknoen, M.D.

PARTNER $1,000 – $1,999

Anonymous Richard R. Abello Kathleen and Charles Ables Gary Allard June and Daniel T. Allen Sandra and Earl Altshuler Libby Andersen Carolyn Balkwell Mr. and Mrs. Michael Bardin Scott Warren Barnard David Bevilaqua and Craig P. Caldwell Nancy Laturno Mary Boles-Allen Gaylyn N. Boone and James R. Dorcy Drs. David Brenner and Tatiana Kisseleva Drs. Craig and Joan Heller Brown Sarah Blakely Brown Diana Card Doug Carsten Keith Chen June Chocheles Judy Churchill Karl and Joanna Cikste Tracy Cooke Mike and Anne Dessert Richard G. Dooley Carol Druckman RayMonda Duvall Vicki and Chris Eddy Roswitha Enright Alfred F. and Karin Esser The Etess Family Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation Elissa and Richard Finerman Jean Fort Ronald Franzese Esther and Dr. William Fraser Catherine R. Friedman Richard Ghalie Carol Githens Lawrence and Nancy Goldstone Katherine Greco Dr. Richard and Jennifer Greenfield Barbara Gross Michael and Margaret Grossman Emily and Brett Hassig Karen and John Hayes Sarah Hernholm Ann Lipscomb Hill Don and Celeste Hillman Michael Homan Gurdon Hornor

*In memoriam

11/14/23 9:39 PM

DONOR LIST Lulu Hsu Jim and Carmen Hughes Valentin Isacescu, MD Adrian Jaffer and Ann Laddon Mr. Jay Jeffcoat Peter Jensen Pamela Kaires Gina and Charles Kakos Thomas Kerl Helen and Webster Kinnaird Eric and Zoe Kleinbub Amy B. Kronick Jennifer Kropko Dr. William & Evelyn Lamden and Randolph & Dr. Carol Lamden Corby Steve Barbone Sue Lasbury Jose Lau Dennis C. and Kathleen Lees Felipe and Susana Leff Ellen Lehman and Charles Kennel Anthony W. Leonard and Jin-Soo Kim Carolyn LeVasseur and Dwight Kellogg Vicki Lindblade Charles S.* and Robin Luby Bill and Shenell Malloy Kristina Manvelian Dr. Stuart and Anne Marshall David Marshman Eileen Mason Seonaid McArthur Douglas M. and Paula A. McGraime Charitable Foundation Edward and Elizabeth McIntyre Michael and Kimberly McSherry Mark Mead Bud Mehan and Margaret Riel Beate Menzel Sandra Miner Rena Minisi and Rich Paul Haida and Ali Mojdehi Melissa Murfey Esther Nahama Ben Naman Gregory and Jennylee Nesbitt John Newsam and Sharon Wampler Rev. Raymond G. O’Donnell Raquel Olson Gaynor and Gary Pates Rachel Peniche Michael Perkins* and Anne Turhollow Mary Yankee Peters and John David Peters Carol L. Plantamura Jon Pollock William R. Pond

*In memoriam

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Darren and Tracy Pudgil Christine Purcell Ms. Barbara Rabiner Mary Rath Mr. and Mrs. Don Reckles Lois J. Richmond Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation Patrick and Marti Ritto Lynn Rockwell Adele and Fred Saleh Carol Schrauzer Todd Schultz Sally Schwerdtfeger, Ph.D. Georgina Bien and Lu Sham Portia Shumaker Debbie Sigal Drs. Eleanor Smith and John Malone Mark and Marth Sottsanti Valerie A. Stallings James R. Stein Alamanita Ellis Stjerne and James Stjerne Elise Streicher and David Huffman Gail and John Tauscher Jennifer Thomas Jonathan Tibbitts Dr. Fred and Erika Torri Moses Urbano Merja Vainio Gretchen Vik and Larry Clapper Helen Wagner Stephen Webb Bill Weber Nathan and Evette Weiss Barry Wellins Mary Ann White and Lee Margot Carole Wilson and Robert Brandt* Adam Winter Joseph and Mary Witztum Victor and Dolly Woo The Helene and Allan Ziman Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation

ENTHUSIAST $600 – $999

Anonymous Mr. Ronald G. Allen and Mr. Lindsay R. Fong Mary Berend Lois Bloom Corey J. Braun R. Nelson and Janice Byrne Barbara Campbell Barbara Carlton Steve and Cathy Constable Rilla and Denis M. Crane Douglas P. Doucette

Kevin Faulconer Gilbert Garra Alison and George Gildred Pamela Godde Maxine* and James Hall Edward S. Hand and Stanley C. Harazim Bonifacio G. and Suzanne M. Hernandez John and Ann Hill Elena Juarez Frances and Jack Kyte Juan* and Alexis Lasheras Mr. and Mrs. Alejandro Lombrozo Mary M. and Thomas Lytle Madilyne and Kyle Malone Mr. and Mrs. Alex Mincks Barbara L. Parry, M.D. Nelson D. Pewitt & Ellen Quinn Beverly Phillips Bruce Ramet Michael J. Rensink Alan J. Schuyler Peter Seymour Christopher Shields Bruce E. Shirer, M.D. Rebecca Smith and Tom Tseng Roger G. Spragg Janis and David Steller Suhaila White Ms. Emel Yuceturk

CONTRIBUTOR $300 – $599

Anonymous (3) Sarah Agler Robert and Meredith Alcock R.C. Allen Cheryl Anderson Mireille Anderson J. David Archibald and Gloria E. Bader Steven and Shannon Ashburn John Asmus Franklin Au Dr. John Backman Susan Barbey-Booth Leland Beck and Marla J. English Kassie Betts Paul L. Bishop Michelle Blanchard Susan and James Boland George Boomer and Caroline Chen John Boyer Katie M. Boyer Edwin and Bea Buchman Robert and Linda Cain

PERFORMANCES MAGAZINE P19

11/14/23 9:39 PM

DONOR LIST CONTRIBUTOR CONT. $300 – $599

Dr. Mary Ann Calcott Danielle Cervantes and Michelle Gilchrist Lynne M. Champagne and Wilfred S. Kearse Anne Colburn Donald Coleman Judith H. Collier Adam Colton Barbara Corcega Robert Croke Richard Crosland Patricia A. Crowley Diane and Norman Cullen Mr. and Mrs. Yolanda Curet D.A. Davidson & Co. Mrs. Mary Dawe Linda Dawson Julie and Jim Dillon Audrey Doherty Lidia Domagalska Patricia and Jack Eldon Ofelia Elf Jeffrey Esko Hester Evans Joseph Fannella Daryl E. Ferguson Monica Fimbres Dieter Fischers’ Mercedes Srv. Inc. Dr. William and Judith Friedel Francis Gabbai Martha Gilmer Michael Gonzales Andrea Hales and Bill Brown Douglas Alan Hall Mary Hazzard James P. Healy Megan Heine Joanna and Brooks Herman John Hermann* Adrienne Hoehn Anne Hoiberg Terry & Peter Holt Patrick J. Hurley Antoinette Ingrassia Linda P. Ivor and Chris Steinhardt Zella Kahn-Jetter Gilbert and Mary Lou Kammerer

Miriam Kastner George L. Katz Mr. Maurice Kawashima Alex Kelber Jo Kiernan and Bjorn Bjerede Hyunchul and Wanhea Yuk Kim Michelle LaGrandeur Marilyn A. Lamb The Lancer Group Elizabeth B. Leech Maria-Cristina Leon Judy and Jack Leshefka Helga Lupu Nicolae Lupu Susan Marberry Said and Roswitha Marouf Edward Marsh Nancy Martin Theodore McCombs and Rony Lenis Andrew McCulloch Michael S. and Jessica Middleton Evan Miller Grant Miller Millipore Lynn and Trudy Mitchell Cheryl Morabito Matt Morrow Karen and Joseph Morse Martin Nass Tom Nickel and Michelle Dutro Neil Osborne Richard and Patricia* Perlman Charles L. Perrin Vicki Pinkus Kay Greco, Louis Greco, Chris Ferntas, and Susan Norbert Drs. Jenny Price and Tony Hunter Eve Pritchard William Purves and Donald Schmidt Dennis Ragen and Christine Hickman Susan A. Ranft Audrey S. Ratner Diane Retallack William and Joyce Ritz Trevor Roper Norman M. and Barbara Rozansky Robert Rubenstein and Marie Raftery Richard Salmon Henry S. Sauls Kathleen Savino

Michael & Sheila Sharpe Sanjay Shukla Anne and Ronald Simon Ms. Bridget Slatten Jospeh Smith Ronald L. Smith Scott and Jan Steele John Stover Sarah Strande Pat Stromberg Lynn H. and Elliot H. Tarson Dr. Phyllis Tyson Kathleen C. and Thomas N. Volle Carol Wallace Karen Walter Nancy Ward Peter Weady John and Nalani Webster Vernon White Joyce Williams Karen Williamson Peggy Yamamoto Bart Ziegler Capt. and Mrs. Herb Zoehrer

*In memoriam

P20 PERFORMANCES MAGAZINE

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Listing as of November 2, 2023. We sincerely regret any errors or omissions.

To make a correction, please contact philanthropy@sdopera.org or (619) 232-7636.

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OPERA STARS SAN DIEGO OPERA IS DEEPLY GRATEFUL TO THE FOLLOWING INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE HELPED TO ENSURE THE FUTURE OF OPERA IN SAN DIEGO BY INCLUDING SDO IN THEIR ESTATE PLAN. Anonymous (12) Robert & Meredith Alcock Jim Algert* Robin L. Allgren Irene Ruth Allis Dr. & Mrs. Lazlo Ambrus* Murray* & Anne-Marie Anker Alfred* & Sara Antonicelli Bobbie Ball-Bradley Hans Beck* Mr. & Mrs.* Doug Bekkedahl Maurice & Olga Bernard Eleanor* & Robert Bottomley Joan E. Bowes in memory of Evelyn Raff Roth Margaret L. Boyce* Edna E. Brennan* Michael O. Lynch & Cheri B. Briccio Mr.* & Mrs. Marlin Brossart Sarah Blakely Brown Esther J. Burnham* Robert O. Burton in Memory of Dorene M. Burton Robert & Linda Cain Mrs. Ruth Heinz Carpenter Kent Chapin* David A. Chierichetti* Mr.* & Mrs.* Nathaniel L. Cohen Richard & Stephanie Coutts Roselle Coviello* Elisabeth H. Crouch Mary Yee DeBrunner* George Demetre* Gwyn Enright* Sandra Erbetta Estate of Richard Stern Hester Evans Elsa Feher Daryl E. Ferguson Teresa Fischlowitz* Mr.* & Mrs. David C. Fletcher Milan Floribus Mr. & Mrs.* John Patrick Ford Kay O’Cullane & Steven B. Frank Dr. William & Judith Friedel

Litzie H. Friedman* Audrey Geisel* Dr. Michael & Barbara Gerber Clifford Geweke* Lee & Frank* Goldberg Connie Golden in memory of Robert M. Golden Bruce* & Barbara Goldreyer Reba Graney* David & Claire Guggenheim Dr. Howard F. Guidry in memory of Dr. William F. Piles M. Antoniette Harris Kathryn Hattox* Dr. & Mrs. Jerome Heard Dr.* & Mrs. P. Kahler Hench Joan Henkelmann John Hermann* Mr.* & Mrs. Joseph W. Hibben Mildred Hinkle* in memory of Edward Hinkle Teresa & Harry Hixson Dr. & Mrs. Thomas G. Hoffman Shirley & Gene* Hoggatt Dr.* & Mrs.* Samuel Hon Karl & Greet Hostetler Dr. Steve & Nancy Howard Beverly J. Hymes George & Marlene Imbsen Bill* & Becky Ivans* Mr. & Mrs. Norman W. Jaffe Charmaine* & Maurice* Kaplan Philip M.* & Detty June* Klauber Marilyn* & Bill* Kneeland Miriam & Peter* Krippl Dr. Seth Krosner Regina Kurtz Mr.* & Mrs. Jack Landale Mrs. Charlotte Laverents* Carol Lazier Belina L.* & Paul L.* Lazzar Ruth I. Ledermann Lester Lefkowitz Inge Lehman* Ruth Leonardi

*deceased

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C. Stanley Mahan Sara & Dennis Manyak Sarah B. Marsh-Rebelo, G.G. & John G. Rebelo Mr. & Mrs.* William H. Marten Muriel Gluck* Dr. Marjorie Ann McBride Kenneth C. McMillen Merikay & Ron McQuoid Elinor & Charles Merideth James A. Merritt Elizabeth B. Meyer* Diana M. Miller Judith A. Moore Sam & Mona Morebello Barbara & Maury Mortensen William H. Murphy* & Robert H. Heath* Rik Nelson & Joe Gorst Ms. Deloris S. Neumiller Jerome & Jacqueline Niederman* Maria Gladys Nockin Mary Elizabeth North & Mary Gaylord North Barbara Taylor Ockenfels Elizabeth A. Otten Gayle Tejada Pate Mr. Bernard Paul Dr. & Mrs. Douglas K. Pay John* & Ernie Peak John Pendleton Mr. & Mrs. Robert A. Plachta* William Purves Mrs. Paul A. Quaintance Daniel & Feliza Reed Nancy Riley Mary B. Rose Mr. & Mrs.* Robert J. Rose Bruce S. Ross & Eileen F. Gallo-Ross M. Elaine Ross Jukka Saukkonen & Velva Wood Forrest C. Schafer Schleder/Heineman Trust Mr. & Mrs. Christof E. Schwab Abraham Shrekenhamer

Mr.* & Mrs. John Shumaker Joseph & Gloria Shurman John S. Sieh Sandra Silvers* Paul Slysh* Sherman & Lady Smith Sylvia M. Smith Carol Jean Spicer Linda P. Spuck Mildred Stiverson Joseph Sundstrom & Rosemary Lyttleton Bill Stensrud Marlene Roedde Swall C. Everly* & Madeline E.* Terry Robert* & Aysegul Underhill Karen Valentino Dr.* & Mrs.* George H. Walker Eleanor Ward* Arlene & Peter Way Janet & Jonathan White Mary Ann White Jean Winslow* Raymond* & Erika Wright Robert L. Zarbock*

PERFORMANCES MAGAZINE P21

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SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY RAFAEL PAYARE Music Director EDO DE WAART Principal Guest Conductor JAHJA LING Conductor Laureate

VIOLIN Jeff Thayer Concertmaster DEBORAH PATE AND JOHN FORREST CHAIR Wesley Precourt Associate Concertmaster Jisun Yang Assistant Concertmaster Alexander Palamidis Principal Second Violin Nick Grant Principal Associate Concertmaster Emeritus Cherry Choi Tung Yeung Associate Principal Second Violin Ai Nihira Awata Jing Yan Bowcott Yumi Cho Hernan Constantino Alicia Engley Kathryn Hatmaker Kenneth Liao Igor Pandurski Evan Pasternak Julia Pautz Yeh Shen

VIOLA

FLUTE

TRUMPET

Chi-Yuan Chen Principal KAREN AND WARREN KESSLER CHAIR

Rose Lombardo Principal

Christopher Smith Principal

Sarah Tuck

John MacFerran Wilds

Lily Josefsberg

Ray Nowak

PICCOLO

TROMBONE

Lily Josefsberg

Kyle R. Covington Principal

OBOE

Logan Chopyk

Sarah Skuster Principal

Kyle Mendiguchia

Rodion Belousov

BASS TROMBONE

Andrea Overturf

Kyle Mendiguchia

ENGLISH HORN

TUBA

Andrea Overturf DR. WILLIAM AND EVELYN LAMDEN ENGLISH HORN CHAIR

Aaron McCalla Principal

Nancy Lochner Associate Principal Wanda Law Qing Liang Abraham Martin Johanna Nowik Ethan Pernela Carrie Dennis* Jason Karlyn* Michael Molnau*

CELLO Yao Zhao Principal Chia-Ling Chien Associate Principal

HARP Julie Smith Phillips Principal

Marcia Bookstein

CLARINET

Andrew Hayhurst John Lee

Sheryl Renk Principal

Richard Levine

Max Opferkuch

Mary Oda Szanto

Frank Renk

Ryan J. DiLisi Principal

BASS CLARINET

Andrew Watkins Assistant Principal

Nathan Walhout Xian Zhuo

TIMPANI

Frank Renk

BASS Jeremy Kurtz-Harris Principal SOPHIE AND ARTHUR BRODY FOUNDATION CHAIR

Xiaoxuan Shi

Susan Wulff Associate Principal

Edmund Stein

Aaron Blick

Hanah Stuart

P.J. Cinque

John Stubbs

Kaelan Decman

Pei-Chun Tsai

Kevin Gobetz

Zou Yu

Samuel Hager

Thomas Dougherty*

Michael Wais

Benjamin Hoffman*

Margaret Johnston+

BASSOON Valentin Martchev Principal Ryan Simmons

CONTRABASSOON

Erin Douglas Dowrey Andrew Watkins

PRINCIPAL LIBRARIAN Courtney Secoy Cohen

Leyla Zamora

HORN Benjamin Jaber Principal Darby Hinshaw

Nicole Sauder* Sarah Schwartz*

Elyse Lauzon Tricia Skye Douglas Hall

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Gregory Cohen Principal

Leyla Zamora

Assistant Principal & Utility

P22 PERFORMANCES MAGAZINE

PERCUSSION

LIBRARIAN Rachel Fields * Long Term Substitute Musician + Staff Opera Musician The musicians of the San Diego Symphony are members of San Diego County, Local 325, American Federation of Musicians, AFL-CIO.

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CORPORATE & INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT

PERFORMANCES MAGAZINE P23

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BOARD & LEADERSHIP 2023/24 BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS Sarah B. Marsh-Rebelo, GG, MFA Chair of the Board Janet White, MA, MBA, CSci, FRSC President Linda Spuck Executive Vice President Robert Kaplan, PhD Vice President, Finance Candace Carroll Secretary/ Parliamentarian

DIRECTORS Robin Allgren, MD, PhD, MBA Joann Clark Joan Henkelmann Karl Hostetler, MD Carol Lazier Veronica Leff, MAM Ronald Leonardi, PhD Brett MacLeod Joseph Martinez Brett McClain Clarice Perkins

Coreen G. Petti Gloria M. Shurman, PhD Mary Lindenstein Walshok, PhD HONORARY LIFE DIRECTORS Teresa Fischlowitz (in memoriam) Lee Goldberg Harry F. Hixson, Jr., PhD Sarah B. Marsh-Rebelo, GG, MFA HONORARY DIRECTOR Dame Zandra Rhodes

SAN DIEGO OPERA STAFF General Director – David Bennett Principal Conductor – Yves Abel Chief Operating & Financial Officer – Jeannie Posner, CPA

PHILANTHROPY

Chief Philanthropy Officer – Llewellyn Crain Senior Philanthropy Officer – Peter Shavitz EDUCATION & ENGAGEMENT Major Gifts Officer – Elizabeth Fittro Education Director – John Gabriel Campaign & Data Specialist – Teaching Artists – Bill Caballero, Karina Vanessa Flores Cabrera, Jessica Cortez, Kevin Boudoin Philanthropy Associate – Camryn Burton Cuez, Paola Evangelista, Philip Gomez, Devon Guthrie, Inocente Galicia, Precious Letchaw, Joey Molina, PRODUCTION & ARTISTIC Xiomara Pastenes, Rebeca Tamez, Director of Production & Artistic Nicole Vincent Administration – Joan T. Foster MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS Technical Director – Tim Wallace Associate Production Director – Chief Marketing & Grace Herzog Communications Officer – Conductor-in-Residence & Matthew E. Graber, MBA/MFA, MA Chorus Master – Bruce Stasyna Group Sales – Vanessa Dinning Artistic Administrator – Melody Moore Marketing Operations Director – Lighting Director – Jason Bieber Greg Watkins Stage Manager – Peter Nictakis Company Photographer – Karli Cadel Assistant Director – Beth Krynicki Assistant Stage Managers – OPERATIONS & FINANCE Nan Luchini, Hannah Holthaus Chief Operating & Financial Officer – Production Assistant – Jonathan Fong Jeannie Posner, CPA Super Captain – Jesi Betancourt Music Staff – Cathy Miller FINANCE Senior Accountant – Mario Adame COSTUME DEPARTMENT Staff Accountant – Claudia Costume Director – Ingrid Helton Diaz-Acevedo Assistant to the Costume Director – IT Administrator – Joseph Huitzil Faith James Administrative Assistant – SHOP Angelica Mondragon Costume Shop Manager & Draper – Operations Coordinator – Lupita De la Mora Eduardo Saavedra Milliner & Stitcher – Sharon Granieri PATRON SERVICES Assistant Draper – Susan Sachs Box Office Manager – Erin Oleno Stitcher – Veronica von Borstel Patron Services Associate – Brad Fox Fitting & Stock Room Coordinator – Patron Services Associate – Matt Kissel Mary Harris Patron Services Associate – Assistant Fitting Coordinator – Evey Beach Ginny McClure

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SHOP CONT’D Costume Shopper & Crafts – Erik Hanson WARDROBE Wardrobe Head – Peggy Harrison Assistant to Wardrobe Head – Margaret Hager Dressers – Donna Couchman, Robin Lemon, Pam Medhurst, Sue Noll, Michael Rosensteel Theatre Stitcher – K-Joy Lehmann WIGS & MAKE UP Designer & Department Head – Peter Herman Wig and Makeup Artists – Kathleen Kenna, Pam Stompoly Ericson, Deziree Villapando, Deserea Parrish, Daniel Volkert SCENIC STUDIO Scenic Studio Office Manager – Liora Naor Master Carpenter – Jack Hernandez Lead Carpenter – Cory Klinge Carpenters – Will Bender, Anthony Chambers, Kenny Delozier, Rodney Foley, Sergio Pinales Lead Welder – Michael Moglia Charge Artist – Darin Hibi Lead Scenic Artist – Jessica Harriman Scenic Artists – Samantha Leon, Jessica Amador TECHNICAL & STAGEHANDS Head Carpenter – Anthony Chambers Assistant Carpenter – Ron Hogue Flyman – Michael Moglia Assistant Flyman – Thayne Greene Head Electrician – Richard Bonin Assistant Electrician – Leah Nellman Board Op – Mike Lowe Head Props – Antonia Hogue Assistant Props – Bradley Morrison Head Audio – Michael Gustafson Supertitles – Franklin Gray

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YOU’RE HERE. Congrats, You’ve Picked a Great Performance!

Check out the interactive version of this theater program magazine and enjoy even more insight into the performers, creative talent and theater activities that are behind it all.

LINKS TO PERFORMERS’ SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS MULTI-MEDIA PRESENTATIONS ABOUT THE PERFORMANCE. UNDERSTUDY UPDATES THEATER SUPPORT OPPORTUNITIES UPCOMING SHOWS AND CONCERTS AROUND TOWN INSIDER SCOOPS FROM THEATER AND MUSIC PROFESSIONALS

It’s the new way to read the program, it’s

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D IN IN G

Winter Dining Darlings New Restaurants, New Menus & New Michelin Stars Promise Stellar Dining This Season by SARAH DAOUST Little Italy Newbie The former Cafe Gratitude space in Little Italy is now home to The Heights—a modern Italian chophouse with sleek decor and an outdoor dining patio. The menu offers antipasti, salads, house-made pastas, steak, seafood, cocktails and wine. Try the signature fettuccine with creamy truffle sauce, tossed in a cheese wheel and topped with shaved truffle; the Bistecca Fiorentina, a hefty 32-ounce porterhouse served on a lava stone with rosemary potatoes and truffle sauce; and the pork chop with fig jam. 1980 Kettner Blvd., Suite 10, Little Italy, 619.539.7344, theheights-sd.com

FROM TOP: COURTESY THE HEIGHTS; KARI AUSTIN

From top: dinner offerings at The Heights; sparkling rosé at Patisserie Melanie.

Welcome to the Jungle Outfitted with hanging vines, lush greenery, roped partitions and Tulum-inspired decor, the new location of Craft House has opened at Fashion Valley Mall, serving elevated American gastropub fare with Mexican influences.

Expect those famous handcrafted “Monster Burgers,” hearty sandos, short-rib mini tacos, Fishermen’s Stew and charred octopus. To drink: specialty cocktails like the Coco Loco Margarita, Tamarind Painkiller and Chocolate Bliss Martini. Dine inside or on the 800-square-foot patio. 7007 Friars Road, Suite 347, Mission Valley, 619.314.4574

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FROM TOP: COURTESY THE HEIGHTS; KARI AUSTIN

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and produce; plus ingredients from the property’s onsite garden. Menu highlights: panfried chicken paillard with poblano butter; the Cubano grilled cheese with Swiss cheese, Jarlsberg and ham; themed cocktails like the vodka-based “I’m All Ears”; and carrot cake for dessert. 401 K St., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.702.8288, wildharebargarden.com

D IN IN G

Locally Sourced The former Little Thief Wine Bar space in North Park is now Long Story Short—a dinner destination by San Diego natives and chefs Elliott and Kelly Townsend. The husband-and-wife team— whose cooking portfolio includes Juniper & Ivy, Cowboy Star and Vino Carta Solana Beach—wanted to create a welcoming kitchen and wine bar showcasing the best of California cuisine. Recent dishes on the seasonal menu have included wagyu tartare, local crudo and Uni French Toast; plus regional and global wines and local craft beers. 3017 University Ave., North Park, 619.228.9381, longstoryshort-sd.com Oui, Oui Embark on a Parisian culinary journey at Patisserie Melanie—a warm, modern new outpost by Paris-trained pastry chef Melanie Dunn. The cafe and bakery specializes in small-batch confections and French pastries, including croissants, macarons and tarts; plus savory quiches, croques and tartines for lunch; and teas and coffee drinks. Come for happy hour and enjoy the “Le Royale with Cheese” burger; cheese and charcuterie boards; and discounts on wine and beer. 3750 30th St., North Park, 619.677.2132, patisseriemelanie.com

Garden to Table Following a $22.5 million renovation, the Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter invites you to hop on over to the property’s whimsical new restaurant.

Wild Hare Bar Garden—helmed by new executive chef Frank Barajas—offers gardeninspired dishes with locally sourced proteins

North (County) Star Modern Mexican respite Valle recently received a Michelin star—making it Oceanside’s first and only Michelin-starred restaurant. Opened in September 2021 at the beachfront Mission Pacific Hotel, the restaurant quickly became known for chef Roberto Alcocer's refined cuisine—a blend of flavors and recipes from Baja’s Valle de Guadalupe wine region and

COURTESY IMAGES

From top: scallop crudo with melongazpacho sorbet at JRDN; steak at Craft House.

AR

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AWA R D -W I N N I N G D I N I N G , S H O P P I N G & E N T E R TA I N M E N T A R I T Z I A • D I N TA I F U N G • H A I D I L A O H O T P O T • L U C R E Z I A • RAMEN NAGI

COURTESY IMAGES

N O R D S T R O M • R A I S E D B Y W O LV E S

W E S T F I E L D.C O M

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DI NI NG

Boredom is not your style, and it’s not ours either.

That’s why our retirement communities are such an invigorating place to call home.

It’s all here. Distinctive experiences.

Fascinating connections. Exquisite cuisine.

Attentive service. Personalized wellness programs.

Everything you need to live life your way.

PREMIER SENIOR LIVING RESIDENCES

L A V I DA D E L M A R 850 Del Mar Downs Road • Solana Beach

LaVidaDelMar.com | 858.215.6112

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LaVidaRealSeniorLiving.com | 619.452.0012

An SRG Community

RCFE #374602832

RCFE #374603565

Brunch is Served The AC Hotel’s Tuluminspired rooftop bar and restaurant, Techo Beso, is popular for its poolside city views, specialty craft cocktails and Mexicaninspired fare. And now guests can enjoy weekend brunch here. Feast on the Mexican Benedict, with two poached eggs over tamale cakes, topped with brisket and avocado; the Hangover Burger with fried eggs and habanero mayo; brioche French toast with house-made whipped cream; steak ‘n’ eggs; chilaquiles; breakfast tacos with smoked cheddar; and more. (Return for Techo Beso’s new happy hour, 4 to 6 p.m., every

22 PERFORMANCES MAGAZINE

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COURTESY IMAGE

BE MORE YOU.

northern Mexico. Indulge in braised lamb in birria broth, fresh catches and A5 wagyu beef; with a separate vegetarian tasting menu available; plus agave cocktails and Baja wines. 222 N. Pacific St., Oceanside, 866.723.8906, valleoceanside.com

Poolside cocktails at Techo Beso

A whole-hearted and clear-eyed musical about the iconic love story of Johnny Cash and June Carter.

On the night of an intense storm, tensions between two sisters reach a boiling point.

Thursday and Friday.) 743 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, techobeso.com

COURTESY IMAGE

Omakase Oasis Find an authentic omakase dining experience at Ichifuji Sushi—a Tokyostyle Japanese restaurant nestled in Linda Vista.

The tiny, 10-seat sushi bar

by Hiroshi Ichikawa and Masato Fujita offers two seatings nightly (closed Tuesdays). Reserved guests can partake in an eight-course omakase (chefs’ choice) meal of seasonal fare, including appetizers, nigiri and sashimi; plates like misomarinated black cod and steamed egg custard with vegetables; and housemade Houji tea panna cotta with fruit for dessert; plus premium sake, wine and beer. $160 per person.

7530 Mesa College Drive, Linda Vista, 858.565.1179, ichifujisushi.com Menu Makeovers Tower23 Hotel’s oceanfront JRDN has two new

Part memoir, part manifesto about the rise and rise of a superstar.

A transformative, heart-warming and award-winning play The Daily Beast called “pretty darn near to perfect.”

Leave the little ones at home and gather ‘round for a very Playhouse take on Christmas — heartfelt and laugh-out-loud funny.

A new musical about the inspirational story of one of the most important friendships in our nation’s history.

PERFORMANCES MAGAZINE 23

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DI NI NG

A l l Ye a

Great for Ages 3-8!

Come to The Conrad in La Jolla for kid-friendly concerts and more!

THE MAGIC OF BUBBLES SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2023 10 AM & 11:30 AM ConRAD Kids Series The JAI

It’s all about the BUBBLES when Italian clown and actor Michele Cafaggi comes to town!

ALPHABET ROCKERS

SATURDAY, MARCH 16, 2024 3 PM

ConRAD Kids Series THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL

Get your body moving with the Alphabet Rockers, winners of the 2023 GRAMMY Award for Best Children’s Album!

KAKI KING

SATURDAY, MAY 4, 2024 10 AM & 11:30 AM ConRAD Kids Series The JAI

One of the most acclaimed rock guitarists creates a show all about the wild and wonderful world of BUGS!

visit TheConrad.org THE CONRAD Foror calltickets, 858.459.3728!

Home of La Jolla Music Society

Uni French Toast at Long Story Short

talents in the kitchen— executive chef Jerry Ranson and pastry chef Justin Sazon—and they've dreamt up some new menus and dishes. Try the lobster tartine; the Tuna, Tuna Tuna sushi roll with ahi, albacore and spicy tuna; oxtail bucatini; the Burning Up menu where you choose your meat and sauce; and desserts like the "Converted Hot Cocoa" with gingerbread cake. And check out JRDN’s new SoCal Supper Club every Tuesday. 723 Felspar St., Pacific Beach, 858.270.5736, t23hotel.com Stylish Roman trattoria Seneca—boasting city and bay views from 19 floors up at the InterContinental Hotel—debuts new leadership and a menu refresh.

The new team: executive chef Christopher Gerwig, general manager Bosko Milenkovic, assistant general manager Courtney Mullarkey-Finley, and service manager Lucas Ketir.

Seneca’s updated menu features whipped ricotta with pistachio pesto, Castelvetrano olives, lemon and grilled bread;

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wood-fired eggplant with whipped mascarpone and garlic confit; and 30-layer oxtail lasagna with pecorino and fried parsley. 901 Bayfront Court (entrance on Broadway), level 19, downtown, 619.877.8642, senecatrattoria.com In Little Italy, Coco Maya is known for its Yucatan-inspired cuisine and airy rooftop bar. In honor of its one-year anniversary, culinary director Quinnton Austin (aka "Chef Q") has expanded Coco Maya’s dinner menu to include dishes like short-rib birria tacos, chili-rubbed prime ribeye, and Rasta Pasta—short rib blended with penne pasta, jerk seasoning, peppers, onions, cotija cheese and cilantro. Chase it all with a cocktail such as the Coco Bongo Highball, made with coconut-infused blanco tequila and Jamaican rum. 1660 India St., Little Italy, 619.943.9439, inlovewiththecoco.com

Seneca’s new executive chef Christopher Gerwig

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early childhood development all the way through to college. “At SDYS I lead a program that has more than 500 students in it, over 12 ensembles,” Patel says. “That’s one side of community involvement— grassroots work to better the musical community and inspire future generations of music lovers; and instill music appreciation in future generations. The opportunity for cross-collaboration with the LJS&C is exciting. Many students in the Youth Symphony’s advanced ensemble are talented, smart and high-achieving; and have career ambitions that don’t necessarily include music—they have ambitions in science, etc. I hope to bring the two groups together on occasion so those students can interface with LJS&C musicians 26 PERFORMANCES MAGAZINE

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CONT’D. FROM PAGE 14

Executive Director Stephanie Weaver Yankee

Jan 24 - Feb 18, 2024

LADY DAY AT EMERSON’S BAR & GRILL

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By Lanie Robertson Directed by Wren T. Brown In Association with Ebony Repertory Theatre and see there is a way to keep music as part of your life, even though you don’t pursue it professionally.”

Patel dove in to programming with his first concert as Music Director, choosing two of the selections. “I have a deep interest in music by living composers and new music. New Beginnings has a bunch of my interests all in one program,” Patel says of the concert—which will include Kauyumari by Gabriela Ortiz, Igor Stravinsky’s Symphony of Psalms, Kaija Saariaho’s Ciel d’hiver, and Jean Sibelius’ Symphony No. 3. “We have a work by a living composer; one with a connection to UCSD and the community; one of the most important works of the 20th century that features the chorus; and a piece that doesn’t get performed enough.

MAKES A GREAT HOLIDAY GIFT!

Treat your jazz fan to this moving production.

Experience Billie Holiday’s life story through the songs that made her famous. With her poignant voice and moving numbers, one of the greatest jazz singers of all-time shares her loves and her losses.

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La Jolla Symphony & Chorus has an expectation for adventurous programming thanks to the legacy of Steven Schick, and we play lesser-known works with the same joy and enthusiasm as if they were Beethoven. The audience expects it as well—our patrons have come to appreciate music that is neglected or new.”

Patel formerly served for six seasons as Associate Conductor of the Sun Valley Music Festival; and held tenure as Associate Conductor of the San Diego Symphony.

He has also held conducting positions with the Chicago Sinfonietta and the Fort Wayne Philharmonic, and led orchestra performances around the U.S. He notes some important differences between conducting professional

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La Jolla Symphony & Chorus in action

orchestras and the LJS&C all-volunteer corps. “One example is that the volunteer orchestra is used to rehearsing once a week,” he says. “But at the same time, they bring a joy to work with the chorus, a love and passion for performing music that is unique. They have worked hard at keeping this as part of their life, so they come ready to play at a high level—just with a different approach than professionals do.”

Patel comes to LJS&C with big plans. “My hopes are to always strive for artistic excellence while doing really adventurous programming; to showcase underrepresented composers and those writing music currently— including doing some new commissions. But parallel to that is also to continue the orchestra’s connection

2023 76th Season Performances.pdf

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HERE’S TO YOU

97%

of audiences read the program.

6.2

million readers annually.

65%

support advertisers who support the arts.

Contact us to advertise, we entertain great ideas.

858-442-7818 kerry.baggett@californiamediagroup.com

to the UC San Diego community, featuring music by students and featuring students as soloists.”

For Weaver Yankee, Patel’s ongoing leadership of the San Diego Youth Symphony is a major asset. “We have a great relationship with the Youth Orchestra, and with Sameer involved with both, I can see us doing events with the two organizations performing side by side,” she says.

“As well as social events so the students can meet our players and see what’s possible—they don’t have to put their violin on a shelf because they went to medical school.”

“The La Jolla Symphony has such a wide range of non-musical talent; clearly they’ve excelled in their professional lives but are all fantastic musicians as well,” Patel adds. “That’s why it’s important for me

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LJS&C’s 2023-24 season continues into next June.

San Diego Holiday Classic!

to show the students that there’s a way to keep this art, this beauty, this music alive in you and give you the opportunity to share it with other people.”

New Beginnings will be performed Dec. 9-10 at UC San Diego’s Mandeville Auditorium as part of La Jolla Symphony & Chorus’ “Metamorphosis” season.

The 2023-24 season continues with A Broken Hallelujah, Feb. 10-11, 2024, conducted by Steven Schick; Nexus, March 16-17, conducted

by Patel; To the Stars, May 4-5, conducted by Patel; a chorus-only concert, Holy Radiant Light, May 11-12, conducted by Arian Khaefi; and the seasonclosing Time Present and Time Past on June 8-9, conducted by Patel.

For tickets and more info, please visit ljsc.org

DECEMBER 15 & 16 @THE CONRAD camarada.org

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The Nutcracker with the City Ballet Orchestra

California Center for the Arts, Escondido 5 Performances December 21-23 Tickets: $39-$119 Discounts for Students, Seniors & Military

www.cityballet.org 858-272-8663

Production Sponsor

Photo: Chelsea Penyak

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Music by Vince Guaraldi, arranged by Peter Sprague

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A cathedral-shaped “tunnel of lights” art installation at the Lightscape experience at San Diego Botanic Garden, open through Jan 1.

COURTESY LIGHTSCAPE / SAN DIEGO BOTANIC GARDEN

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