Humans are, by nature, curious. Whether eavesdropping or watching reality television, we are interested in the ‘behind-the-scenes’ of every story. And perhaps no story is more glorious than an Opening Night Gala. The gowns, the glamour, the gossip.

Vivanista decided to take its members on a voyeuristic Behind The Scenes tour of just what goes in to producing a major Gala. What follows over the next 7 weeks will be a build up to one of the country’s great fundraisers – the San Francisco Opera Ball. The event, labeled “The City’s Most Magical Evening,” is on the calendar for Friday, September 10, 2010 and will feature Verdi’s production of the opera, Aida.

But, as we all know, it’s not just about Opera, no matter how fabulous the production is. It’s about the Opera Ball. And not surprisingly, dedicated volunteers and committee members have already logged countless hours in order to perfect every detail before the big night arrives. Whether you’re interested in haute couture, hot hors d’oeuvres or high stakes fundraising you’ll be introduced to the various contributors developing their piece of the puzzle that fits into the overall mosaic of a great event.

Co-Chairs, Charlot Malin & Mary Poland

First, we’ll introduce you to the co-chairs and event masterminds Mary Poland and Charlot Malin. Second, courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue, peek into what goes in to the perfect LOOK for these two dynamo gals. For those interested in the production of Aida itself, you’ll enjoy the history of the opera, as well as hear directly from fashion designer, Zandra Rhodes, who designed the costumes for the San Francisco production. Next, we’ll introduce you to in-demand New York-based event design firm, Van Wyck and Van Wyck, who mark this event as their first entre into San Francisco society. And don’t miss some of the humorous anecdotes doled out by Catering Director, Patrick McAteer, of McCalls Catering. The following week, discover why a major corporate sponsor underwrites an event of this caliber. And finally, every extra minute spent perfecting details will pay off when the glamour, excitement, and magic of opening night arrives. Afterward, Vivanista will feature photos and inside details about the last-minute preparation on the day of the event and, of course, photo coverage of the gala!

So grab your backstage pass and travel through the whirlwind of planning a major fundraiser gala with the San Francisco Opera!

But as a prelude we check in with Mary Poland as to what it means to co-chair a major event.

Read In Her Own Words >>

PHOTO RECAP: Opera Ball committee meeting

Opera Guild Managing Director, Susan Malott, (L) with the Opera Ball committee

PHOTO RECAP:  Opera Ball VIP Launch Party, held at the home of Mary and Bill Poland

The foyer of the home of Bill & Mary Poland before the arrival of guests

Opera Ball Co-Chair, Charlot Malin

Aida costume designer, Zandra Rhodes

Opera Guild President, Dianne Rubin, with Opera CEO, David Gockley

Opera Board member, Carol Doll

Photos coutesy of Kate Owen Photography