Candle Complement

The event: The 24th annual Candlelight Concert benefit starring singer-pianist Michael Feinstein, followed by a festive dinner onstage at the Orange County Performing Arts Center in Costa Mesa. The center’s board of directors staged the glowing gala Sunday to raise money for operating costs and educational programs.

‘S wonderful: Before the curtain went up on dinner, Feinstein entertained the crowd of 450 with carols and American classics, including tunes by his mentor, lyricist Ira Gershwin.

After the show, guests moved onstage, becoming stars in a magical set. They dined on lobster and veal chops beneath swags of mini lights that illuminated red-draped tables sparkling with crystal vases of red tulips, berries and candy, which guests nibbled. “It’s OK to eat the centerpieces,” said Barbara Glabman, event chairwoman. “We want people to let their inner child out.”

The William Hall Master Chorale entertained those “inner children” by singing holiday tunes by candlelight.

Plugged in: The first Candlelight Concert took place in an unfinished dime store in Garden Grove. “It got its name because there was no electricity, and guests had to dine by candlelight,” said Mark Johnson, board president.

Party planners now have access to state-of-the-art stage lighting after moving the gala from hotel ballrooms to Segerstrom Hall last year. “The moment the curtain went up, everyone knew this is the place it should be,” Johnson said. “People are overwhelmed by the beauty and intimate feeling of this event.”

Bottom line: Although individual tickets were $500, underwriters snapped up every seat, paying $5,000 to $25,000 for tables of 10. Their donations pushed net proceeds to a record $450,000. Part of the proceeds will allow schoolchildren to visit the center and attend free educational arts programs.

Quote: “This year more than 300,000 schoolchildren will come through the center to learn about art and how it changes lives,” Johnson said.

Guest List: Robin Turner, event co-chairwoman; John and Donna Crean; Jerry and Whitney Mandel; William and Noddie Weltner; Jerry and Maralou Harrington; Ben and Carmela Du; Joann Bechtold; Ward and Margo Chamberlin; Samuel and Marlene Hamonree; Barbara Johnson; Roger and Gail Kirwan; Carol Wilken; Peter and Mary Muth; DeLane and Catherine Thyen; Jo Ellen Qualls; and Tom and Joyce Tucker.

What’s ahead: Because the event sold out in August, planners are at work on the event’s 25th anniversary gala, sure to be a hot ticket. For information on center benefits, call: (714) 556-2121.