Inside the Viennese Opera Ball Kickoff in NYC

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Step inside Jean Shafiroff’s festive pre-holiday reception in New York City.

Philanthropist Jean Shafiroff welcomed more than 100 guests to her Manhattan home for a pre-holiday celebration marking the 70th anniversary of the Viennese Opera Ball in June 2026, one of the city’s most iconic white-tie galas.

Jean Shafiroff, Silvia Frieser at the Viennese Opera Ball. Photo by BFA / Kevin Czopek

Arts patrons, cultural leaders, and socialites enjoyed an elegant evening featuring performances by acclaimed opera stars Elizabeth Sutphen, soprano, and Brandon Cedel, bass-baritone. New York State Assembly member Rebecca Seawright presented citations honoring Shafiroff and the ball for their philanthropic contributions.

Notable attendees included Ramona Singer, Malan Breton, Ted Vassiley and Seawright herself.

Scroll through our gallery for a glimpse inside the glamorous celebration.