The American Ballet Theatre Gala returned on the mainstage with its first in-person gala since 2019. Tatler gives you a sneak peek inside the event!
After a hiatus of almost two years due to the pandemic, the American Ballet Theater Gala returned to the mainstage with the resumption of its live performances, kicking off with a grand opening night last October 26.
As has been the practice since years past, attendees were decked out in their finest ensembles. What were probably new were the strict health protocols imposed to enter the event.
Playing the able host was ABT’s principal dancer, Misty Copeland. One of the highlights of the evening was the Melvin Straus Leadership achievement award given to ABT trustee, Jenna Segal. The trophy was custom-made made by Paul Arhnold. The centrepiece of the evening’s programme was the premiere of Jessica Lang’s Zig Zag, set to songs recorded by the legendary Tony Bennett.
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Wes Gordon, creative director for Carolina Herrera, designed the costumes in bright colours, using his maison’s signature polka dot pattern. The entire performance was breathtaking. Worth mentioning, however, was the moving Touché by Christopher Rudd, with the sensual and seductive movements of its two male ballet dancers mesmerising the audience. Likewise, Lauren Lovette’s variation of La Follia was captivating not only because of the performance but the colourful costumes designed by CFDA Vogue Fund Finalist, Victor Glemaud.
After the show, guests were escorted to David Koch’s main dining area. The entire venue was decorated with large silver balls. The purple and dark lighting set the mood for the ensuing dinner.
Some of the VIP guests who supported the event were: Diane Kruger, Liev Schreiber, Brooke Shields, Molly Ringwald, Hamish Bowles, Anh Duong, ABT Chair Sarah Arrision, Olivia Palermo, Sarah Hoover, Lili Buffett, Elizabeth Kurpis, Amy Fine Collins, Tony Bechara, Vogue Society Editor Lilah Ramzi, and more.
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This was originally published on the January 2022 issue of Tatler Philippines. Download it on Magzter for free.