Women in eveningwear, men in tights

The Nottingham Knights Gala, chaired by Doug Simon and Kate Peters, attracted Robin Hood, Maid Marian and hundreds of O.C. citizens in support of the Pacific Symphony Orchestra.

It was an evening of music and merriment themed around a much-loved historical fantasy. The Hyatt Regency Hotel in Irvine was transformed into Nottingham Castle, with troubadours, magicians, jesters and jugglers setting the mood. Some 450 guests attended, wearing either black tie or colorful period costumes.

The event honored pops conductor Richard Kaufman for his 15 years of service to the O.C. orchestra. An auction consisting of fabulous trips and expensive jewelry attracted bidders wishing to make a difference for the symphony. Tiffany & Co., represented by Jeff Bennett, donated an elegant diamond and pearl pendant set in platinum that went to one lucky winner in the opportunity drawing.

In the crowd were Elizabeth Vincent and Wally Schroeder, Gail and John Ueberroth, Pat and Charles Steinmann, Wenona and Milton Simao, Sally Segerstrom, Terry and George Schreyer, Mary Roosevelt, Michelle Rohe, Betty Moss, Paul and Lilly Merage, Randy and Suki McCardle, Phil and Mary Lyons, and Roger and Gail Kirwan.

Also front and center were Hans and Valerie Imhof, Patrick and Valerie Hurley, Jerry and Maralou Harrington, Mike and Ellie Gordon, Rosalie Friedman, Gordon and Reta Fishman, and Terry Dwyer, president of the Orange County Performing Arts Center.