“Tales of Hoffmann,” a story about a poet’s quest for true love, opened theWashington Opera’s 46th season on September 8. Gala Chair Alberto Vilar,who has donated close to $50 million to the Kennedy Center, underwrote thenew production and opening night gala that featured an elegant dinner in theKennedy Center’s South Gallery. Marta Domingo, who directed the production,received a special arts medal from French Ambassador François Bujon del’Estang, who together with his wife Anne, were honorary patrons of the gala.