Pacific Symphony raises $125,000

The Pacific Symphony fundraised $125,000 during its Oct. 30 fall gala, which celebrated the opening of the pops season. The funds will go toward the Costa Mesa-based orchestra’s artistic and education programs.

More than 200 guests attended the gala dinner and soirée at the Westin South Coast Plaza hotel. The themed party included a procession, cocktails, music, stilt walkers and jugglers. The evening also celebrated the 20-year tenure of principal pops conductor Richard Kaufman.

Making a surprise appearance was Kaufman’s daughter, Whitney Kaufman, who recently starred in “Mamma Mia!” on Broadway.

“Having the opportunity to be part of Pacific Symphony’s ‘team’ has been a great blessing in my life,” Kaufman said, “and I look forward to all we will be doing in the future.”

—Bradley Zint