The Island Ballroom at the Shangri-La Hotel was transformed for Opera Rocks, a dinner and live opera performance held in March. The stage backdrop mimicked that of a theatre with red velvet curtains, lush drapes and chandeliers, while the sound system had to accommodate live opera and solo recitals by a pianist and violinist.

Guests dined on a menu based on mineral elements, in line with the ‘rocks’ theme, and courses were served on plates with printed images of rocks. Hon Ooi Lee, director of event management at Shangri-La, says: “The culinary and F&B service teams presented a stunning spectacle throughout the night. As a grand finale, teams marched in bearing plates of dessert in a jewel case to be served at individual tables.”

SPANISH DINNER
Michelin-recognised chef Santi Santamaria hosted an intimate dinner for 60 of Singapore’s business and society elite at the John Jacob ballroom, St. Regis Singapore on March 23.

The event celebrated the spirit and culture of Spain, with an elaborate setting including a dining table running the full length of the ballroom. Candles and floral arrangements were suspended above the table, creating the perfect ambiance for the eight-course gastronomic dinner menu prepared by master chefs led by Santamaria, and paired with wines selected by his sommeliers.

The evening began with renowned artist Rosa Serra and her husband, Xavier Carbonell, introducing their art while guests sipped champagne. Spanish guitarist Diego Cortes and two flamenco dancers provided the finale as dessert was served.

INTERNATIONAL TIES
Overseas Union Enterprise’s Lunar New Year Charity Gala held at the Mandarin Ballroom of Mandarin Orchard Singapore in February was attended by Singapore’s president SR Nathan.

Along with raising funds for Community Chest Singapore and China International Cultural Communication Centre (CICCC), the event helped to promote cross-cultural ties between Singapore and China.

Guests were treated to a combination of Shanghai specialities and Pine Court restaurant’s signature dishes. Master chef Yu Jia Qiang was specially flown in from Shanghai, while CICCC brought in two world-renowned troupes to perform famous cultural dances. 

Themed Chinois Chic, the overall décor was oriental yet modern and sophisticated, reminiscent of Shanghai Tang’s flavours. 

There’s more to Swissotel the Stamford’s INK Club Bar than evenings spent listening to jazz music and sipping sundowners. An optical company recently held a product launch for 120 guests at the stylish bar, where they enjoyed a buffet breakfast in the exclusive Red Room, followed by a product presentation in the main hall.

As a creative ice-breaker, the organiser encouraged guests to design their own cupcakes. Guests could experiment and create their own works of art from a colourful array of toppings, with the most innovative cupcake artists awarded prizes.

INDIAN THEME
BSI Bank Singapore hosted 200 clients at a Maharaja-themed dinner in the grand ballroom at Ritz Carlton, Millenia Singapore in January. The Grand Gallery was transformed into the Courtyard of the Maharaja’s Palace, complete with birds, fountains, drapes and lush greenery, while the ballroom became the palace dining hall.

Guests dined on traditional Indian cuisine, while sitar and tabla players and a court dancer provided the entertainment. The highlight of the evening was a teaser performance by the cast from the musical Merchants of Bollywood, which guests were attending the following night.

BSI senior associate director, Cheryl Lee, says: “My clients and I were impressed with the transformation. It was spot-on and we felt like royalty. Kudos to the catering and culinary teams.”