Pacific Chamber Ends Season Early

Burdened with cast defections and a $30,000 debt, the Pacific Chamber Opera has suspended operations and canceled the three remaining shows in its current season.

Several days before the April 7 opening of Oscar Straus’ “The Chocolate Soldier,” four of the seven principal cast members resigned, citing the company’s financial instability and the doubling of the number of performances, said Gar Hildenbrand, general director.

Originally scheduled to open in March at the Lyceum Theatre, the production was rescheduled for the smaller Sixth Avenue Playhouse, requiring more performances. Hildenbrand said he is committed to reviving his organization, despite its debt and a drop to five members on the board of directors.