A sophisticated crowd of 350 partied like they were in turn-of-the-century France during the Pacific Symphony’s largest fundraiser of the year, aptly titled La Fête du Siècle. Upon arriving at the Hyatt Regency Irvine, orchestra enthusiasts stepped out of the modern moment and into a Parisian circus circa the 1890s—replete with jugglers, a tightrope walker and cancan dancers. A Champagne fountain and raspberry martinis proved excellent thirst-quenchers for revelers as they munched on pastries and roasted chestnuts. And dinner transported guests to a French cabaret, followed by a rousing live auction with out-of-this-world items, including a trip to Houston to meet American space pioneer Lt. Gen. Thomas Stafford. At la fin de la fête, more than $1.3 million had been netted for the symphony’s programs. Photos by Nicholas Koon Photography