Celebrating the students of the arts

An amazing turnout of 2,900 guests filled Segerstrom Hall at the

Orange County Performing Arts Center in support of the Orange County

High School of the Arts. It was the “Season Finale” on stage

showcasing the talents of more than 300 students.

“Season Finale” is in its 16th year, a much anticipated annual

event that brings resounding applause for hard earned success

representing work from nine conservatories of particular artistic

discipline that make up the local performing arts academy.

Before the performance, some 250 VIP guests and underwriters

joined forces for a cocktail reception and dinner at the Westin South

Coast Plaza Hotel, Costa Mesa. On hand for the celebration were Dr.

Ralph Opacic, executive director of the school, foundation board

President John Daniels and his wife, Sandra Segerstrom Daniels.

Carrole Watts was honored for her volunteer efforts with the

inaugural Carrole Watts Fund-raising Volunteer of the Year Award.

Interim artistic director and Broadway actress Susan Egan was also

lauded, as was trustee Kate St. Clair.

The performance, directed by Egan, featured excerpts from a number

of Broadway musicals such as “Side Show,” “Into The Woods,” “Parade,”

“My Fair Lady” and “42nd Street.” Performances of classical music,

dance, opera and more rounded out the presentation.

* THE CROWD appears Thursdays and Saturdays.