Glam Stand

If last night was a dream, then it was a very sweet dream. After so many years, the old Cathay building finally reopened doors to the public. To mark the opening of The Cathay, the management decided to throw a spectacular party to commemorate this event. It seemed like only yesterday that I was climbing up the grand staircase of the old building before watching a movie. Not forgetting the iconic Orange Julius drink in one hand of course.

Taking every step with great consciousness is something that not one would do everyday. But that was how it felt as we strolled down the red carpet before being greeted by cameras. Not one but a few cameras. Observing the rule of first come first serve, we had to make sure that we were not captured on the picture of couples that were before us. The stroll was none as intimidating as the mass number of people that greeted us at the grand façade. Guests, ushers, batman, superman, cat woman. Aiyoh! It was simply massive! Men suspended in mid-air playing tunes to classical compositions, and smoke emitting from the main entrance. You would believe that the party is going to be held there if people were to tell you that.Once in the main building, you cannot help but be amazed at the transformation. It hardly felt like a building! It was an amusement park! Movie characters were running around the compound with waiters serving beverages to you. GK wasted no time at all to spot the bar. As we were walking towards the bar, we were waylaid by our past. We started getting excited and stopped in our paths to take a Polaroid with the familiar. Much credit must be given to IM for choosing the most appropriate wine for an event as such. The white wine brought a familiar taste to our group; we could not get our hands off the glass! It felt like I was drinking from the chalice that never runs dry. Every sip from the liquid, gives one more excitement as we wait in anticipation for the show to begin (Sounds like what an alcoholic would say).

For the initiation ceremony, a total of 11 guest of honour was chosen. They represented the Cathay organisation in almost every way. They were partners of Cathay and every one of them contributed to the company since the 1950s. The show began after the couplets were unveiled. Acrobatic dancers displaying elegance and dynamism in mid-air to the sound of classical, timeless pieces. Towards end of the show, pyrotechnics were used and confetti rained down at the centre of the building. Beyond possible description of how impressive the show was. Guests were led to the main theatres by drummers dressed smartly as soldiers in the ballet, Nutcracker.

The Grand Cathay lived up to her name. Plush seats, decadent curtains with ornate decorations. The seats were they way I had imagined all Cinema seats should be. COMFORTABLE! The movie that was screened represented The Cathay. It was a movie that was screened the same year as the old building, a symbolic representation. However, the movie was not able to keep me seated. My mind was screaming help. I knew that I had to leave and join the company that beckons.

The rest of the evening was history. History that accompanied the momentous opening of The Cathay. And history that is very much appreciated.

Special Thanks to:

1. IM for the invite.
2. D for coming over to say hi.
3. The company for the evening.
4. Mr. Brown for the wonderful Chenin Blanc.