A grand ballroom inspired by Thai arts and culture

DUSIT Thani Manila EAM for food and beverage Chris Orta, Philippine Hoteliers Inc. vice chair and president Evelyn Singson, Dusit Thani Manila director of communications Shariza Relova, Dusit Thani Manila general manager Alex Willats
CARLO Velasco, Alex Willats, Christine Cunanan, Gel Baylon, Ambassador Isabel Wilson, Dr. Lilia de Lima

Dignitaries and luminaries from various fields graced the opening of Dusit Thani Manila’s newly refurbished Mayuree Grand Ballroom, dahlings.

 

On hand to welcome the guests was the hotel’s amiable general manager Alex Willats.

 

Celebrity Joey Mead King hosted the event.

 

In his speech, Willats said: “The hotel would not be a prominent establishment without the support of its loyal clientele… We will maintain the traditions and the impeccable service we have been known for over the decades, as we continue to nurture our relationships with you. We endeavor to better ourselves… and supplement the hotel with developments that will help us enhance the experience of Dusit Thani in Manila for everyone.”

 

PETE Dacuycuy, Alex Willats, Butch Lopez, Christine Dayrit, Carlo Roxas, Nini Licaros

Everyone was entranced by a traditional Thai Peacock Dance, which later transitioned to an exclusive fashion show by couturier Albert Andrada. His collection was inspired by the exquisite beauty and colors of the peacock’s plumage.

 

Guest performer Dulce serenaded the audience in her trademark powerhouse vocal style.

 

Later on, DJ Mars Miranda played an engaging mix of sounds to represent the dynamic changes that the hotel has undergone.

 

DULCE.

The Mayuree Grand Ballroom boasts an awesome display of intricate details inspired by Thai arts and culture, complemented by state-of-the-art amenities and excellent service.

 

It is truly an amalgam of elegant form and seamless function.

 

Shall I see you there soon, palangga?

 

Back in Caruso

 

Some of our town’s gourmands couldn’t wait to go the the popular Italian restaurant Caruso in Makati, especially after its owners, muy simpaticos Dario Gardini and Emilio Mina, got back from a vacation to host a special dinner.

 

DARIO and Jenyvy Gardini, Marilen Fontanilla, Koichi Kuwamura

New recipes have been added to Caruso’s superb menu.

 

Cocktails preceded the meal. Served as appetizers were assorted meats including salami with parmesan cheese, parma ham and mozzarella bologna.

 

The pastas consisted of spaghetti vongole, olio e peperoncino, penne arrabiata and tortelloni with truffle.

 

Dessert was panna cotta ice cream in different flavors.

 

ENIS Kola, Gerard Tan, Max Zetlin, Richard Michael, Crystal Cunnigham, Gov. Chavit Singson, Rico Abarentos
CARUSO Ristorante Italiano’s owners Dario Gardini, Hans Demetz, Emilio Mina

The highlight of this gastronomic gathering was Gardini and Mina receiving a plaque of hospitality certifying the authenticity and quality of food, wine, hospitality and ambiance” from Italian Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines president Alessandro Abbate.

 

Italian Ambassador to the Philippines Massimo Roscigno was with his wife Agnes.

 

Other VIP guests included Chavit Singson with his daughter Kimberly, Dennis Villareal, Koichi Kuwara, Jose Mari Chan with wife Mary Ann, Kalila Aguilos and Giorgio Pascazio.

 

Star of the night

 

Fila Philippines was the proud host and sponsor of the gala opening of Red Turnip Theater’s production of the Pulitzer Prize winner and Broadway hit “Rabbit Hole” at Whitespace in Makati.

 

ALEX Aronson, Robert Jones, Kenny Stern, Rupert Zappia, Harry Morris, Crystalle Henares, Jessica Kienle
CRIS Albert, Tim Yap, moi, Tessa Prieto Valdes

Cris Albert, Fila Philippines CEO and Red Turnip patroness, walked into the event in a gorgeous Rodriguez and DKNY outfit.

 

Inside the theater, the audience was encouraged to do a #setselfie photo opportunity on the set care of Mandaue Foam and Smeg appliances.

 

The unconventional theater setup enhanced the cocktail reception before the play. Nar Cabico provided the music, while Vanna Calalang Severino laid out a sumptuous buffet consisting of prime roast beef with a choice of salsa or French baguette; tuna panini; pork skewer in applesauce; and delectable pasties like cream puffs, caramelized banana, mini brownies and cheesecake.

 

Ralph’s wines and spirits served a selection of cherry, pepper, blueberry and orange-flavored vodka; tequila shots; bourbon; red and white wine.

 

MYLENE Dizon, Rajo Laurel

Everyone got properly buzzed, dahlings.

 

The star of the night, of course, was Agot Isidro who plays lead character Becca. She was outstanding.

 

“Rabbit Hole” runs all weekends of August. Call 8919999 or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph.

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