Foundation for the Education of Rural Children

BENEFIT GALA 2007

Was it the setting that made the Gala 2007 such a success? It might well have been: the lawn along the river at the newly opened Sofitel Riverside Chiang Mai was an ideal location for this event. Over 150 guests were seated around beautifully laid-out tables, lit by romantic candle light. The cool and gentle evening breezes made everybody feel in paradise. Or was it the really excellent cuisine that was brought to the diners by the 5-star kitchen of the Sofitel? Long buffets with endless rows of delicious dishes, both Thai and Continental, tempted many of the guests to go yet for another sample – or to get another glass of one of the many exclusive wines.

May be it was the fabulous show that made this evening such a memorable occasion. “Southern Breeze”, performed by the internationally acclaimed ‘Grassroots Group’ under the direction of Ben Svasti brought a mysterious boat out of nowhere to the landing of the hotel. And in the light of many torches appeared a group of dancers, dressed in up-dated versions of traditional Lanna costumes. After a beautiful performance on stage, more dancers appeared in the pool accompanying a giant floating lotus. It all ended with a display of fire-eaters, accompanied by impressive traditional Thai drums.

But there were so many more events that contributed to the evening’s success. The ‘live’ music by Pongtada Suriya’s band “Music Man”, the solid presentation of the whole program by MC Scott Jones, the tempting collection of items for the silent auction, the fabulous raffle prizes, and, last but not least, the elegantly dressed guests who obviously enjoyed themselves so much.

Additional credits and thanks were included in the program for helping this Gala to become The Night of the Year:

Thai World View Foundation and its Director Pongtada Suriya, who gave invaluable assistance with all matters concerning sound and lights;
Restaurant and Deli Buonissimo and its owner Sergio Canale, for supplying excellent wines and managing the bar;
The staff and management of the Sofitel Riverside, who helped us with all our needs and concerns with dedication, professionalism and smiles;
The Wongmalee family for sponsoring the show “Southern Breeze”;
and Bob Johnson for sponsoring the band “Music Man”.

last updated: June 18, 2008