By HWM
Jean Shafiroff ushered in a milestone season for one of New York’s most storied cultural traditions by hosting an elegant kickoff reception for the 70th Annual Viennese Opera Ball at her Manhattan residence. The festive evening doubled as a pre-holiday celebration and welcomed more than 100 guests from the worlds of philanthropy, arts, fashion, and diplomacy to mark the beginning of the Ball’s landmark anniversary year.
A philanthropist, television host, author, and longtime chairwoman of the Viennese Opera Ball, Shafiroff underwrote the event in honor of the historic occasion. The reception gathered supporters and cultural leaders ahead of the 70th Anniversary Viennese Opera Ball, scheduled to take place in 2026, and highlighted the enduring cultural and diplomatic ties between Austria and the United States.
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During the evening, New York State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright presented official citations to both Jean Shafiroff and the Viennese Opera Ball, recognizing their sustained contributions to philanthropy and the arts. The acknowledgments underscored the Ball’s longstanding role as both a cultural institution and a charitable force in New York City.
Guests were treated to live performances by acclaimed opera vocalists Elizabeth Sutphen, soprano, and Brandon Cedel, bass-baritone, setting a refined tone for the anniversary season ahead. In keeping with Austrian tradition, attendees also enjoyed Austrian white wine from Domäne Wachau, one of Austria’s leading wine estates, generously provided by importer González Byass USA.
“The Viennese Opera Ball represents elegance, culture, and the timeless beauty of the arts,” Shafiroff said in a press release. “It is a privilege to host this gathering in celebration of its 70th year as we honor tradition while supporting the next generation of artistic excellence.”
Founded in 1955, the Viennese Opera Ball is among New York’s oldest and most prestigious white-tie galas, blending classical music, opera, and Viennese ballroom tradition while supporting charitable causes each year. The upcoming 70th Anniversary Ball will continue that legacy when it returns on May 8, 2026.
Notable attendees included Silvia Frieser, Elizabeth Sutphen, Brandon Cedel, Rebecca Seawright, Jay Hershenson, Ramona Singer, Louise Braver, Jennifer Santos, Malan Breton, Ted Vassilev, Stefanie Eimesser, and many other prominent supporters of the arts and philanthropy.
As chairwoman and a past honoree, Shafiroff’s leadership continues to shape the Ball’s future, ensuring its place as a symbol of cultural elegance, generosity, and international friendship in New York City.
Photo: Rebecca Seawright, Jean Shafiroff, Silvia Frieser (Photo Credit: BFA / Kevin Czopek)
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