PORTopera’s annual gala, held at the Westin Portland Harborview Hotel on May 6, was truly an enclave of sophisticated arts patrons who gather each year to raise money for the opera company and enjoy a private concert by some of its premier talent.

“The arts in Portland are thriving, and PORTopera is so proud to be a part of that,” said Caroline Koelker, managing director of the company, who attended with her husband, Joshua.

“We’re looking forward to a wonderful production of ‘Carmen’ this year by our artistic director, Dona D. Vaughn, and ‘The Medium,’ which will be performed by our young artists.”

Glamour was in full swing as tuxedoed and bejeweled guests chatted over cocktails before sitting down for a formal dinner and performance. The gala, titled “A Night At The Opera,” raised money for PORTopera’s 21st season, which features performances in the month of July.

Connie Bingham, PORTopera’s board treasurer, was joined by Bill Schwind, a former trustee, and Kathleen Grammer, an advisory board member. Jack Riddle, co-founder and board member, attended with his wife, Bonnie. Mary and Kenneth Nelson of Falmouth were there, as well as Kevin Schochat and Leslie Hart, who recently relocated from Manhattan to Munjoy Hill.

John Hatcher of Keller Williams/The John Hatcher Group; Dan Crewe, president of The Bob Crewe Foundation; and Elizabeth McLellan, president of Partners for World Health enjoyed the evening, as did Michael Greer, the executive director of Portland Ballet, Tom Johnson, director of Victoria Mansion, and PORTopera board member April Ylvisaker.

“We like to think of ourselves as the little opera company that could,” said Ann L. Elderkin, president of the board. “We’re an amazing opera company that gets positive reviews in Opera News, and we’re able to pull together the kind of support that allows us to be a vibrant company in a small community. Portland is a wonderfully supportive community of the arts.”

“A lot of companies are no longer in existence, and we are still here,” explained Artistic Director Dona D. Vaughn, who has been with PORTopera since its inception. “This community realizes the importance of a very fine opera company that brings world-class singers, who are always eager to return.”

As PORTopera singers Lucas Levy (tenor), Joshua Quinn (bass-baritone) and Heather Johnson (mezzo-soprano) prepared to take the stage, Vaughn welcomed guests and thanked them for their patronage.

“Can you believe it? PORT- opera is 22 years this year!” she exclaimed to the crowded ballroom. “I know you are here because you are passionate people, because passionate people love opera. Or, because you love someone who does!”

With great laughter and appreciation, the crowd was treated to a prequel of what promises to be spectacular upcoming season.

Margaret Logan is a freelance writer who lives in Scarborough. She can be reached at:

margaret08logan@gmail.com

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