Last summer, San Francisco Ballet Gala Chairwoman Claire Stewart Kostic sat at a family dinner trying to figure out a theme for 2019. They went around the table until her sister, Sharon Stewart, blurted out the word “passion.” That settled it and “This is Passion” — a play on the company motto “This is Ballet” — became the most successful Opening Night Gala in recent company history.

The convivial mood carried on well into the night at the afterparty, back at the passion-pink-lit City Hall where DJs were on deck, including one for a silent discoon the second level, plus a live band to keep the dance party going.

Read in Full: Datebook | San Francisco Arts & Entertainment Guide