San Francisco Ballet’s Global Tribute

Akiko Yamazaki and Yurie Pascarella (in Andrew Gn) at the War Memorial Opera House

San Francisco Ballet opened its 80th season on January 24, 2013, with a gala themed “Moving the Compass — bridging the globe through the universal language of dance.” African drummers greeted dinner guests at City Hall prior to the performance. Projections of ornate compasses filled the Grand Dome, and a rich color palette set the tone.

Onstage at the War Memorial Opera House, Artistic Director and Principal Choreographer Helgi Tomasson showcased the company’s versatility and range with eleven classic and contemporary works and excerpts.

Red carpet style on opening night:

Bandel Carano and Paula Carano (in Monique L’Huillier) at San Francisco Ballet’s 80th opening night gala
Akiko Yamazaki and Yurie Pascarella (in Andrew Gn) at the War Memorial Opera House
San Francisco Ballet Auxiliary Gala Chair Deborah Taylor with San Francisco Ballet Executive Director Glenn McCoy and San Francisco Ballet Auxiliary President Jennifer Brandenburg
Deepa Pakianathan in vintage Versace
Janice Zakin and Karen Caldwell, both in gowns by Karen Caldwell
Rosemary Baker, Eve Wertsch
Charlotte Shultz in Tom Ford
Wilkes Bashford, O.J. Shansby
Carolyn Chang in Andrew Gn
Daru Kawalkowski in a gown by Rubin Singer; incidentally, the same designer who made Beyonce’s costume for the Super Bowl halftime show
Stephanie Ejabat in Marchesa

Photos by Drew Altizer Photography

— Related: Red Carpet Bay Area coverage of more San Francisco Ballet Opening Gala events:

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