Thanks a Million : John, Donna Crean Honored for Opera Contributions

Members of the Impresario Circle of Opera Pacific gathered at the Center Club in Costa Mesa to salute John and Donna Crean, who have donated $1 million during the past 10 years to underwrite operatic productions.

Following the West Coast premiere last week of American composer Marc Blitzstein’s “Regina” in Segerstrom Hall, opera buffs sampled strawberry shortcake and sipped champagne while they mingled with the Creans.

Not to Be Outfoxed

Based on the Lillian Hellman play “The Little Foxes,” the opera tells the story of a turn-of-the-century Alabama family caught up in a greed-driven frenzy. Regina, sung by opera star Carol Neblett, is a cunning Southern belle who will stop at nothing--not even the death of her husband--to get the things she desires.

The fun-loving Creans, who live in a Tara-esque mansion in Santa Ana Heights, prepared for the opera by watching a video movie of “The Little Foxes,” starring Bette Davis.

“I enjoyed the opera tonight,” said John Crean during the post-performance reception. “I’m glad I saw the movie so I’d understand the story line. It was heavy-duty.”

Said Donna Crean: “We loved the set. The living room reminded us of our own--especially the mishmosh of furniture!”

The Buzz

Opera lover Maggie Price called the production--which marked the first time the entire Blitzstein opera had been shown in the United States--”a historical opportunity.”

“It was exciting, wonderful, to be part of something new,” said Price.

Price confided she had played the role of Birdie--Regina’s alcoholic sister-in-law--on stage in the Bay Area, “years ago.”

“And when I listened to Birdie [Sheri Greenawald] singing the lines I learned, it seemed so right.”

Said David DiChiera, executive director of Opera Pacific: “Blitzstein has created a combination of drama and music which is unique.

“ ‘Regina’ is a major landmark in the development of American opera. Blitzstein amalgamated musical theater and opera to make something truly American.”