Celebrating the Arts: The 51st Annual Candlelight Concert at Segerstrom Center

The Segerstrom Center for the Arts recently hosted its 51st Annual Candlelight Concert, a remarkable event held on December 5, 2025. This gala showcased electrifying performances and a profound sense of community, all while reaffirming the Center’s commitment to the arts in Orange County. Under the leadership of CEO Casey Reitz, Board Chair John Phelan, and co-chairs Jackie Glass, Elizabeth, and Bart Asner, the evening was both a grand celebration and an essential fundraising effort for the Center’s artistic initiatives.

A Rich Tradition of Philanthropy

The Candlelight Concert dates back to 1974, initially conceived as a small dinner in a vacant Kresge store in Costa Mesa. This intimate gathering aimed to raise funds for the creation of a major performing arts center in Orange County. Over the years, this grassroots effort evolved into an annual gala featuring acclaimed artists and an exquisite dining experience. This transformation not only strengthened community bonds but also laid the foundation for the gala as a critical part of the Center’s fundraising initiatives.

Each year, the Candlelight Concert unites Orange County’s art lovers to raise vital funds for diverse nonprofit programs. This year, the gala raised an impressive $6 million, proving once again that it is not only "the charity gala of the year" but also a world-class event from start to finish. The money supports programs such as the American Ballet Theatre William J. Gillespie School, the Studio D: Arts School for All Abilities, and a plethora of other Education and Engagement initiatives.

An Evening of Entertainment

The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the performance by the multi-talented Hugh Jackman. An Emmy, Tony, and Grammy Award-winner, Jackman captivated the audience with a set that intertwined Broadway hits, cinema classics, and even a holiday gem popularized by Frank Sinatra. Jackman’s dynamic stage presence made for an unforgettable experience, further enhanced by a surprise performance from a local student, Isadora Salekfard, who sang "Never Enough" from The Greatest Showman.

In addition to his performance, Jackman also led the Candlelight Master Class a day prior, mentoring six talented high school students. This master class underscored the Center’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of artists, culminating in a performance by 41 students from the class who formed the Candlelight Concert Choir.

A Flawless Event Experience

From the moment guests arrived at Segerstrom Hall, the evening radiated elegance and excitement. A lively jazz trio provided a warm welcome, while stunning event design created a theatrical ambiance reminiscent of Palm Beach glamour and Miami Modern style. Photographic installations allowed guests to capture the night’s elegance amid a luxurious setting.

The dinner that followed featured a meticulously curated menu by Chef Alfonso Ramirez of Leatherby’s Café Rouge, highlighting exquisite dishes that included lobster salad, Nebraskan grass-fed filet, and a delectable honey cake dessert. With dancing led by the Lucky Devils Band and a cozy lounge offered for intimate conversations, the gala provided a well-rounded experience of entertainment, dining, and community connection.

Supporting Essential Programs

The Candlelight Concert serves a larger purpose that extends beyond entertainment. Funds raised directly support multiple impactful programs that foster the arts in Orange County. Studio D: Arts School for All Abilities creates a nurturing environment for individuals with disabilities, promoting self-expression and community engagement through the arts.

The American Ballet Theatre William J. Gillespie School at the Center celebrates its tenth anniversary, providing world-class training and performance opportunities for aspiring dancers. The funds from Candlelight also enhance Education and Engagement Programs which aim to connect Orange County’s diverse communities through artistic collaborations and public events, enriching the local culture and inspiring lifelong appreciation for the arts.

A Testament to Community and Arts

As stated by Elizabeth Asner, "Candlelight is more than an evening of glamour; it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and the power of the arts." This sentiment resonates deeply, illustrating how this event embodies the spirit and mission of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Similarly, Bart Asner emphasized that the Candlelight Concert serves to unify people through the arts, ensuring that vital community initiatives continue.

In conclusion, the 51st Annual Candlelight Concert not only marked a night of sensational entertainment but also reinforced the fundamental role of the Segerstrom Center as a world-class hub for performing arts in Orange County. By championing community involvement, celebrating creativity, and supporting significant artistic endeavors, the Candlelight Concert cements its place as an indispensable philanthropic tradition that enriches lives through the transformative power of the arts. For more information, visit www.SCFTA.org.