Radisson turns Blu for the holidays

MANILA, Philippines – Through a seamless fusion of illumination technology and homegrown artistry, the lobby of Cebu’s most desired hotel in the city se puso muy guapa in a faint magical tint of blue.

As the newly-lit, perfectly-shaped 45-ft. cerulean and ivory Christmas Tree glowed and sparkled with a thousand holiday balls and baubles and even more mini-bright lights, the discerning ladies dressed in long gowns in various hues of blue openly gasped in awe while the usually hard-to-please gentlemen in custom-made dark suits and exquisitely embroidered Barong Tagalog nodded in silent admiration.

The celebration of the Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu’s Fifth Anniversary Gala Dinner and Concert had just begun.

The well-traveled, perennial winner in global competitions, Mandaue Children’s Choir attired in its season’s best, serenaded the guests with Christmas songs such as Carol of the Bells, Pasko sa Amoa and its own rendition of Ryan Cayabyab’s masterpiece Kumukutikutitap or Sparkling Lights, making everyone yearn and dream of Christmas.

The island’s very own Cebu Philharmonic Orchestra played the first note of Mozart’s Symphony No. 25 in G Minor as the invitees led by Cebu Provincial Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale and Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama were ushered into the Santa Maria Ballroom for dinner and entertainment hosted by SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation president Elizabeth Sy; Carlson Rezidor VP for operations — Southeast Asia and Pacific, Andre de Jong; SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. VP for operations Peggy Angeles; and Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu GM Nishan Silva.

Silva soon took the spotlight. “Mr. Henry Sy Sr. had a vision of opening a world-class hotel that will make Cebuanos proud and make it part of the tourism landscape,” he started. “Exactly five years ago, we opened the doors of a sophisticated and stylish brand to you and to the rest of the world.” He proudly cited the property’s several milestones, accomplishments and achievements and highlighted the many worthwhile outreach projects extended to the appreciative community.

“To us, hospitality is more than a business; it’s a state of mind, something we breathe every day,” he continued. “Entrepreneurial by heritage, ambitious by nature, we are driven to lead with integrity, responsibility and creativity.” As the recipient of numerous international awards and recognition, Silva truly believes that, “The vision of Mr. Henry Sy Sr. at this moment has become a reality.” He ended amidst wide smiles and generous applause from the audience.

The sumptuous dinner featured the fabled fare of Chef Roberto Kunitz and his team of sterling international chefs. “We have combined premium ingredients with global cuisines for your palate’s delight,” Chef Kunitz proudly announced.

For the appetizer, executive sous chef Garry De Guia’s take on the French classic Canard Bleu Royal, a dish with crab, foie gras praline and brioche. Chinese Chef Aik Liang Tan presented his Celeste at its Finest, a light Chinese soup consisting of braised lobster drenched in pumpkin and carrot medley. India’s Chef Hira Tiwari spriced up the night with his The Cerulean Delight, a classic Indian delicacy of tandoor-cooked Lapu-lapu fillet with vegetables. Chef Kunitz’s main course was a US-certified juicy Angus beef tenderloin, potato soufflé with carrots and onions.

Finally, executive pastry chef Allan Barrios’ Blu Sapphire, a bittersweet chocolate sphere with chocolate mousse, lychee, and rose and almond jelly ended the gastronomic journey.

All throughout the feast, young saxophone virtuoso Joshua Espinosa kept the audience entertained with his original interpretation of favorite and classical tunes.

The mini-concert, conceptualized and directed by Nestor Jardin, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Cultural Center of the Philippines and a consultant of the SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. began with the country’s leading soprano Rachelle Gerodias who outdid herself with her rendition of Heitor Villalobos’ Bachianas Brasileiras, while South Korean baritone singer Byeong-In Park sang the Toreador Song from the opera Carmen.

Rachelle and Byeong-In, now as a duo, did Lippen Schweigen from the Merry Widow. As we sat in bewilderment by the talented performances of these two amazing artists, we naturally wished for more encores as they exited the stage.

The Philippine Ballet Theater’s Regina Magbitang and Peter San Juan thrilled the audience with their movements, dancing to All I Ask of You from the musical Phantom of the Opera.

Globally recognized and acclaimed for its innovative talents in several spheres to include fashion, Cebu’s five leading designers — Philip Rodriguez, Jun Escario, Philipp Tampus, Joyce Maw and Ixa Escario — showcased their latest creations, most sought-after by the nation’s fashionable ladies of style and substance.

Finally, the entire cast literally lighted up the ballroom with its astounding performance of Light of a Million Mornings.

It was indeed, a grand night to remember!