Taking the theme of its founding in 1978, many of the 400 Pacific Symphony gala guests at Hotel Irvine dressed in disco-era attire to celebrate the symphony’s dynamic musical achievement. President John Forsyte recognized Ellie and Michael Gordon as Philanthropists of the Year as well as six board chairs in attendance. The dinner dance raised more than $1.5 million for symphony programs. Photography Ann Chatillon, Ann White
Pacific Symphony’s 40th Anniversary Gala at Hotel Irvine
Gala Co-Chairs Ruth Ann and John Evans, Michele Forsyte and John Forsyte, President of Pacific Symphony 
Gala Decor
Symphony board chairs honored by Carl St.Clair and John Forsyte included, from left, Joann Leatherby, Mike Kerr, Sally Anderson, John Daniels, John Stahr, Mike Gordon, Doug Freeman, and John Evans 
Philanthorpist of the Year honorees Ellie and Mike Gordon
John Travolta impersonator, left, with Greg Bates 
Michelle and David Horowitz
David and Benicia Zeng, Ling and Charlie Zhang
Dee and Larry Higby 
Mark Tomaino, Annosheh and Alan Oskoulan, Diana Martin
Susan St.Clair and Carl St.Clair, Music Director of the Pacific Symphony 
Leslie and Scott Seigel
Alfred Somekh, Liz Merage, Todd Pratt and Barbara Johnson. 
Walkie and Janet Ray, Jim and Sheila Peterson.
Brandon and Melissa Mazzacavallo, Jaynine and Dave Warner 
Entertainers on roller skates