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Pacific Symphony Premieres Wagner’s “Das Rheingold” in St.Clair’s Final Season

03.28.25

Under Music Director Carl St.Clair—one of today’s leading Wagner interpreters—Pacific Symphony presents Richard Wagner’s “Das Rheingold” for the first time. These landmark performances (April 10, 13, and 15) mark a historic moment in St.Clair’s farewell season after 35 years of artistic leadership.

The first opera in Wagner’s epic “Ring” Cycle, “Das Rheingold” will be semi-staged with an orchestra, world-class singers, video elements, costumes, and props. Sung in German with English supertitles, the opera’s story—an inspiration for The Lord of the Rings—unfolds in a mythic world of gods, Rhinemaidens, and a stolen ring of immense power.

St.Clair previously conducted the full “Ring” Cycle as general music director of Germany’s National Theatre and Staatskapelle Weimar, earning critical acclaim. Now, Pacific Symphony audiences can experience his interpretation of this monumental work as part of the orchestra’s ongoing “Opera and Vocals” initiative.

A Mythic Journey

Wagner spent 25 years crafting “The Ring”, drawing from Norse mythology and German legend. His revolutionary use of leitmotifs—more than 150 recurring themes—binds music to character and fate. The opera’s gripping tale follows the consequences of greed, betrayal, and ambition, set against a backdrop of feuding gods, magical beings, and epic struggles for power.

Renowned bass-baritone Kyle Albertson leads as Wotan, king of the gods, alongside Nathan Berg as Alberich. Rising soprano Hanna Brammer sings Woglinde, while tenor David Cangelosi reprises his signature role as Mime. The cast also features Alexandra Razskazoff, Krysty Swann, Ronnita Miller, Adam Diegel, and Aleksy Bogdanov.

Tomer Zvulun, general and artistic director of The Atlanta Opera, serves as production designer and director, bringing his experience from previous “Ring” productions in Atlanta and Dallas. 

The creative team includes lighting designer Ben Rawson, projection designer Nick Hussong, costume designer Mattie Ullrich, and scenic consultant Steven Kemp.

Costumes were constructed by The Atlanta Opera Costume Studio, Carmel Dundon, The Dallas Opera, and Siam Costumes International Company.

 “Das Rheingold” takes place Thursday, April 10 and Tuesday, April 15 at 8 p.m., and Sunday, April 13 at 2 p.m. in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. All three performances include a preview talk with KUSC midday host Alan Chapman at 7 p.m. (and at 1 p.m. for the Sunday performance). 

This concert is part of the 2024-25 Classical Season and is sponsored by the Hal and Jeanette Segerstrom Family Foundation. Tickets are $30-$251. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (714) 755-5799 or visit pacificsymphony.org



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South County Outreach’s Empty Bowls Gala 2025: Setting the Table for Change

03.27.25

South County Outreach invites the community to the 2025 Empty Bowls Gala on Thursday, April 10, at 5 p.m. at its Irvine headquarters. This year’s theme, Setting the Table for Change, reflects the heart of SCO’s mission to end hunger and homelessness in Orange County.

The annual event takes on new meaning this year as SCO opens its doors and welcomes guests in like family. Held onsite at South County Outreach, the immersive experience brings attendees face-to-face with the impact of food and housing insecurity—and the solutions that lead to lasting change.

Guests will experience interactive exhibits and compelling storytelling that highlight the challenges faced by local families and the programs that help them move forward. Following the exhibits, attendees will enjoy a selection of local food trucks and connect with fellow advocates, supporters and community changemakers.

More than a fundraiser, Empty Bowls is a movement. It’s where awareness becomes action, and compassion turns into meaningful support. Every ticket and sponsorship helps provide nutritious meals, housing assistance and educational programs for families working to build stable futures.

For over 30 years, South County Outreach has served as a place of hope for those in need. Through its homeless prevention and food distribution programs—delivering more than 700,000 pounds of food annually—SCO reaches nearly 2,000 children and thousands of individuals across the region.

When you walk through the doors at Empty Bowls, you’re not just attending an event—you’re joining a community determined to make a difference.

Tickets and sponsorships are available at: sco-oc.org/get-involved/empty-bowls



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