There’s something undeniably magical about stepping into the War Memorial Opera House, especially for the annual Opera Ball. This year, 2024, was no exception. As I arrived at the entrance, the building gleamed in the unusually warm San Francisco evening, and the energy was palpable. It wasn’t just an evening of opera but a celebration of art, culture, and glamour wrapped in one.
Dressed in my evening finest, I was immediately swept up by the ambiance: crystal chandeliers illuminating the grand halls, the soft hum of anticipation, and the sound of champagne glasses clinking in joyful camaraderie. As someone who has attended my fair share of events, the Opera Ball stands out for its perfect blend of elegance and excitement. The sense of occasion is as much a part of the evening as the performance itself.
Before the curtain rose, I caught a glimpse of some of San Francisco’s most notable figures mingling effortlessly, their laughter filling the halls. Many people dressed up in masquerade attire themselves, and I felt like everyone was there to truly indulge in the beauty of Verdi’s Un Ballo in Maschera. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of connection to the history and tradition that permeated every corner of the Opera House.
As the lights dimmed and the orchestra struck its first note, we were all transported into Verdi’s world. Michael Fabiano’s portrayal of King Gustav III was nothing short of mesmerizing. His voice carried a regal authority, but what struck me most was the vulnerability he brought to the role.
It is also worth noting that the chemistry between Fabiano and Lianna Haroutounian, who played Amelia, was electric. Their duets, full of longing and regret, brought an emotional intensity that resonated deeply with me. I felt the weight of their forbidden love and the tragedy of their circumstances with every note.
One moment that stood out to me was Amelia’s haunting aria in Act II. Set against a dark, foreboding forest, with the eerie red lighting and Eun Sun Kim’s precise conducting, it was a moment of pure tension. Haroutounian’s soprano voice filled the space with a richness that sent chills down my spine. It was one of those rare performances where you can feel the collective heartbeat of the room, everyone holding their breath in awe.
Amartuvshin Enkhbat as Renato delivered one of the evening’s most powerful performances with his aria, “Eri tu.” His baritone voice carried such emotional weight that I found myself on the edge of my seat, completely absorbed in his internal struggle. The depth and complexity of his character shone through in every note.
The true spectacle of the night, however, was the masked ball scene. The revolving stage transitioned seamlessly into a grand ballroom filled with swirling dancers in sharp black-and-white costumes, their movements reflecting the swirling emotions of the opera’s final act. I found myself completely captivated by the choreography and the visual feast that unfolded on stage. It was a perfect culmination of the night’s themes—love, betrayal, and fate, all wrapped in a sense of impending tragedy.
After the final curtain call, the night didn’t end there. The after-party was just as decadent as the performance itself. Walking through the lush décor of the War Memorial’s halls, I couldn’t help but marvel at the contrast: the intensity of the opera followed by the effervescent joy of celebration. The live band set the tone, and before I knew it, I was swept up in the moment, dancing alongside new and old friends alike, toasting to an evening that felt like a dream.
For me, the Opera Ball is more than just an event; it’s an experience that lingers long after the final bow. This year’s event reminded me of why I love San Francisco’s cultural scene. It’s a place where history, art, and community intersect in the most breathtaking ways. As I stepped out into the warm night air, I left the War Memorial Opera House not only with the music still playing in my mind but with a renewed appreciation for the magic of the arts and the timeless beauty they bring to life.
If you missed opening night, there are still several opportunities to experience Un Ballo in Maschera. The production runs through September 27, 2024, at the War Memorial Opera House. Tickets are available through the San Francisco Opera’s website, but they’re going fast, so don’t wait too long to secure your seat for what promises to be one of the highlights of the season.
