Opera San José’s “La Dolce Vita Gala” gala on Feb. 21, 2026 raised over $300,000 for the company.

The evening, which attracted a host of civic leaders and arts supporters to celebrate Maestro Joseph Marcheso’s 10th anniversary season, was brought to life by Gala Host and Auction Committee members Laura Bajuk, Mark Chambers-Bray, Lenore Johnson, Oceane Li, and Joyce Scott.

The evening raised more than $300,000, empowering the company to continue presenting opera that reflects and engages Silicon Valley’s diverse community.

The evening saw the company give a cocktail reception followed by a multi-course gourmet dinner featuring Italian favorites.

During dinner, guitarist Allen Pacheco provided live music before guests were treated to performances by top operatic talent, including Maria Natale and Ben Gulley.

San José Council member Mulcahy presented an official commendation honoring the outstanding leadership and artistic excellence of Maestro Marcheso, the proclamation was issued by Mayor Matt Mahan and signed by Vice Mayor Pam Foley and all members of the San José City Council.

Following dinner, guests entered the theatre for an evening of delights, hosted by Shawna Lucey, who began the night by bringing onstage maestro extraordinaire, Joseph Marcheso.

The evening continued with an all-star lineup of OSJ artists and special guest appearances. Celebrated composer and conductor Alma Deutscher took the stage for a remarkable improvisation followed by performances by Natale and Gulley, as well as baritone Kidon Choi, tenor Micah Perry, and soprano Mikayla Sager, all accompanied by OSJ Head of Music Veronika Agranov-Dafoe.

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