ORCHESTRATING AN ICE CAPADE

Hundreds of music lovers gathered for the Symphonic Dance of Diamonds, an annual black-tie gala benefit on Saturday that netted more than $200,000--a record--for the Pacific Symphony.

Living up to the theme, sparklers glittered everywhere--from the ears of the elegantly attired guests and the swan-like necks of models provided by Tiffany & Co.

And what a backdrop. The ballroom stage of the Hyatt Regency Irvine was framed in black velvet, like a gift box for a diamond necklace. Spotlights shone on pedestal vases filled with sprays of white Casablanca lilies. Votive candles shimmered on dining tables draped in crisp white linen.

On the menu: a trio of main courses--filet of beef, Chilean sea bass, lamb chop--and three desserts--raspberry tart, chocolate pistachio torte and lemon Napoleon.

“I dreamed of pulling off an Audrey Hepburn[-style] event,” said Thomas Getz, event co-chair with Vesta Curry. “Tonight my dream is fulfilled. Thank you all for being so gorgeous!”

During the gala--where it was announced that Tiffany & Co. vice president Jo Ellen Qualls will chair next year’s 20th anniversary benefit--guests were entertained by singer Davis Gaines and a song-and-dance troupe performing to Broadway tunes such as “All That Jazz” and “42nd Street.”

Also among guests: orchestra president Janice Johnson with husband Roger; John Forsyte; Jeanette Segerstrom; William Dultz; Paul Ecke; Mark and Barbara Johnson; Jim and Barbara Glabman; Bill Merrill; Peter and Mary Muth; Elaine Redfield; Marvin and Joyce Weiss; Lynn and Doug Freeman; Ron and Joyce Hanson; Ted and Janice Smith; Arlene and George Cheng; and Joyce and Tom Tucker.