“Venetian Masquerade” was the theme chosen for the Bailliage’s Gala event held in the Grand Ballroom at the Pudong Shangri-La Hotel. It was a huge success. Participants were overwhelmed with the unique show provided for them.

The Inducting Officer was Harold Small, Member of the Conseil d’Administration, who flew in especially from the USA along with many other international guests from the likes of Great Britain, Hong Kong and Singapore.

Walking through the foyer had the air of ancient times with the service team dressed in Venetian robes and costumes to warmly greet the members and their guests. To further enhance the theme, in the entrance to the Grand Ballroom was a real Venetian gondola! Carnival background music was playing and a hazed “fog” gave the fresh scent of herbs and spices. The table set up was enchanting with its mystical candle light.

The seven-course Italian-inspired menu was crafted with meticulous attention to every detail. A blend of ancient and modern, recipes from centuries ago blended with current food fashions to stimulate the palates. Fine wines, liqueurs and even pink champagne completed the offering.

Concluding the dinner was a chocolate coated, colourful Venetian carnival mask which the Executive Chef and his brigade paraded into the room. It did epitomize the grand style of fine dining and luxury for which the iconic Pudong Shangri-La Hotel is reputed.
 
All of this could not have been possible without dedication, enthusiasm, innovation commitment and hard work of Shangri-La team led by Executive Chef Joachim Textor, Maître Rôtisseur. Originally from Germany, Chef Joachim has lived and worked in Asia for nearly 20 years in total.

The event is still the talk of the town in Shanghai not to mention further afield in China and beyond. Those who were there will remember this Venetian-themed event for a very long time!

John Mack
Bailli