Brief: Two organisers put together a memorable event based on their designated task
Creativity in Shanghai
An off-site dinner is envisioned for a group of middle management executives attending an international conference in Shanghai. The objective is for them to feel welcomed, know more about Shanghai’s long history in trade and the speed of its modernisation, and ultimately become brand ambassadors for the city – all while forging new business relationships.
The journey begins on a VIP coach ride during which a hostess dressed in a Song Dynasty costume introduces the executives to Shanghai’s early history while they enjoy a glass of champagne. Upon alighting, they walk through a parkway lined with gold-painted human statues in costumes and scenes depicting Shanghai’s history. At the end of the parkway is an open-sided marquee on the banks of the Huangpu River, between the Bund’s majestic 19th and early 20th century architecture and the towering skyscrapers of the Liujiazui district.
An event logo is displayed on a giant LED screen covering a skyscraper near the entrance of the venue, where representatives from Shanghai-based foreign and Chinese multinational companies, members from the chambers of commerce and government welcome guests to a pre-dinner cocktail and networking session.
When dinner begins, a spotlight shines on a beautiful woman in a traditional Chinese dress, made to look like the 1930’s movie star Zhou Xuan standing on the Bund. An old man plays an erhu while she sings the 1930’s classic “The Wandering Songstress”. Thus begins the evening’s entertainment, co-created with the Shanghai Dramatic Arts Academy to showcase the city’s history through performance art, song and dance. Programme elements including classical ballroom and jazz club scenes allow the guests to take part by dancing with the performers. Short speeches are given between performances and fireworks from a river barge bring the evening to its memorable conclusion.
In the end, executives leave more aware of Shanghai’s history and current position, with fond memories of the people they met, the dramatic scenery and culture. Excited to be part of the action and with what is happening in this vibrant city.
By Peter Pecotic, founder and managing director of Turning Point Solutions
One day in Pudong
The day starts with tai chi class at Binjiang Promenade – Pudong’s answer to the Bund. The promenade along the east bank of the Huangpu River offers a clear view of the Bund and marvellous views of Pudong’s skyscrapers, including the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai World Financial Centre and Shanghai International Convention Centre. The promenade has manicured lawns and a broad walkway dotted with kiosks, making it ideal for any type of group event.
Next is a short cruise along Huangpu River to the site of the World Expo 2010 – one of the best ways to see both old and new Shanghai. As you sail towards Nanpu Bridge, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Bund and the 21st-century cityscape of Pudong. Once at the site, the group goes on a private tour via a double-decker bus with open top, where they can admire the architecture of the China and UAE pavilions.
Just before lunch will be a cooking class at Chateau 599 in Shile, a boutique lifestyle centre. Designed by legendary Japanese architect Arata Isozaki, Chateau 599 embraces serenity with a modern approach and specialises in nutritious gourmet cuisine. Guests will be able to make their own noodles and dumplings, which they can sample along with dishes prepared by the chefs that make use of seasonal ingredients.
After lunch delegates get to move around by going on a treasure hunt at the Shanghai Science & Technology Museum. The museum houses 18,000 display pieces and uses sophisticated technology in its exhibits. The group will be divided into teams and shown pictures as clues of what they need to find. The first team to complete the hunt gets a prize.
There will be time to rest and freshen up before a cocktail function at the Shanghai World Financial Centre, which is the second-tallest building in the world and has a spectacular view of the city’s downtown districts. The day concludes with dinner at The Kitchen by Salvatore Cuomo. The chic restaurant has breathtaking views of the river and Puxi through its floor-to-ceiling glass windows, allowing diners to soak up the view while the enjoy fine Italian cuisine.
By Jacques Arnoux, managing director, Asia for Pacific World