This article first appeared in the Jul/Aug 2012 issue of World Gaming magazine.
Flashing neon lights and pumping nightspots are part of everyday life in Macau, but there is always time for a little high culture.
The China National Symphony Orchestra accompanied by Dai Yuqiang, Mo Hualun and Wei Song
Culture vultures fortunate enough to be in Macau during the month of April were able to slake their thirst for the arts at a vast array of celebrations to commemorate the launch of the long-anticipated Sands Cotai Central.
In what can only be described as Asia’s biggest launch party of 2012, Sands China hosted five nights of celebratory events including four consecutive nights of gala dinners with community leaders, business partners, VIP guests, dignitaries and media representatives in attendance.
“Our company’s goal is nothing short of firmly establishing Macau as Asia’s must-visit business and leisure destination,” remarked Edward M. Tracy, President and Chief Executive Officer of Sands China Limited as the grand celebrations began on Wednesday April 11.
Onlookers were treated to a sneak peak of the treats to come as the world-renowned China National Symphony Orchestra Choir (CNSOC) gave a stirring performance at a ceremony symbolizing the union of both sides of the Cotai Strip. An unexpected surprise for all those at Sands China came in the form of Venetian Macau-Resort-Hotel Creative Director, Tomas Griffiths, who took to the stage to accompany the choir at the gala dinner.
The action-packed weekend began in earnest on Friday April 13, with the prestigious Star TV 16th China Music Awards at the Cotai Arena, with the same venue hosting some of Hong Kong and Taiwan’s biggest pop music acts together on one stage on the Saturday night for the Venetian Celebration Concert.
However, the cultural crown jewel came on Sunday April 15 when key executives and dignitaries – including Sands China Limited Chairman Sheldon G. Adelson and guest of honor Chief Executive of Macau Dr Chui Sai On – were treated to a night of symphonic power and beauty the likes of which Macau has never seen before.
From left to right: President and Chief Executive Officer of Sands China Limited Edward M. Tracy, Chief Executive of Macau Dr Chui Sai On and Sands China Limited Chairman Sheldon G. Adelson
The world-class China National Symphony Orchestra (CNSO) performed at the newly launched luxury Venetian Theatre, accompanied by China’s top three tenors, Dai Yuqiang, Mo Hualun and Wei Song. As if this weren’t enough, Hong Kong Cantopop star Hacken Lee, Chinese female soprano Bing Bing Wang and Italian female mezzo-soprano Sonia Maria Fortunato also took to the stage alongside the China National Symphony Orchestra Choir to close out the variety-filled weekend of A-list acts. This line up would sell out in any major cultural capital in the world and puts Macau on the map for something other than glitz, glamour and gambling.
If that doesn’t curb your cultural appetites, the Venetian Macau has announced its sponsorship of the distinctive and innovative Philadelphia Orchestra as it launches its 2012 Residency and Tour of China. The integrated resort is serving as Premier Sponsor as the world-renowned orchestra reconnects with its historical roots in China, having had the distinction of being the first American orchestra to perform in the People’s Republic, in 1973.
“The Venetian Macau is pleased to be involved in this historic return of The Philadelphia Orchestra to mainland China,” said Gus Liem, Vice President of Entertainment, Venetian Macau Limited.
“We wish the orchestra success as it begins its residency and tour in Beijing, Tianjin, Guangzhou and Shanghai. With this sponsorship, we will be able to bring a select group of the orchestra’s musicians to give an intimate and exclusive performance at the Venetian Theatre, along with a special community event giving some of Macau’s talented musicians a chance to benefit from the interaction with these renowned symphonic performers. The cultural value of such a visit can’t be overstated, and it’s exactly this kind of event that will help elevate Macau’s status to Asia’s entertainment hub.”
Macau continues to grow on many levels as both a cultural hub and as a tourist destination. It is wonderful that a lot of energy is being spent on ensuring that many different shows, spectacles and forms of entertainment are brought to the region. Slowly but surely Macau is becoming a wonderful celebration of local and international culture and talent.
