Peninsula Magazine June 2012 by Chan Ying Yeung

june, 2012

volume 9, issue 2 volume 9, issue 2

I C E L I N K W A T C H . C O M

GENEVA / PARIS / SINGAPORE / MOSCOW / HONG KONG / MACAU / BARCELONA LOS ANGELES / AMSTERDAM / TOKYO / DUBAI / KIEV / NEW YORK

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From The CEO

elcome to another edition of The Peninsula magazine. In this issue we revisit the incomparable city of New York, a constant hub of art, culture, fashion, personalities and much more. In our ‘Backstage’ feature, we go behind the scenes at the Paris Opéra Ballet, the internationally renowned company that is performing in North America for the first time in more than a decade, with a tour that starts at Chicago’s Harris Theater and will move on in July to the David H. Koch Theater at The Lincoln Center in New York City. Also in the arts field, we meet Dr. Valerie Steele, the visionary Director and Chief Curator of The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology and Ari Wiseman, Deputy Director of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation, both of whom are leaders in their respective professions. In the style arena, we meet author and Creative Ambassador-at-Large, Simon Doonan, and elite wedding stylist, Julie Sabatino. In the fashion world, we meet actress, model and spokesperson Beverly Johnson, who made history when she rose to fame as the first African-American model to appear on the cover of American Vogue in 1974, as well as Carol Alt, who during the 1980s appeared on over 500 magazine covers, becoming one the most famous models of her era. This issue also brings an insight into the character of author Gay Talese. As a writer for The New York Times and Esquire in the 1960s, he helped to define literary journalism in the United States, his most famous articles being about Joe DiMaggio and Frank Sinatra. And last but not least, this issue of The Peninsula magazine profiles Dr. Eva Andersson-Dubin, M.D., who founded the Dubin Breast Center, the first home for comprehensive breast cancer treatment at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. As always, I hope you will enjoy our publication.

Clement K M Kwok Chief Executive Officer

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contents 10

From The CEO

David LaChapelle’s talent was spotted by Andy Warhol in the early 1980s. Since then LaChapelle has photographed a host of celebrities, placing them in his cinematic, dynamic and instantly recognisable images. In 2006 he cut himself off from that world, disillusioned by the increasing constraints that were being put on him and his photographic expression. Recently he returned to photography, this time pursuing it purely as an art form and a means to convey the messages that the fashion world tried to contain.

Backstage 18

From Paris To The Harris

This summer, the Harris Theater for Music and Dance will present the first ever Chicago and Midwest appearances of the Paris Opéra Ballet, described by Ballet News UK as “one of the world’s greatest companies”. The engagement launches the company’s 2012 North American Tour, with its first US performances in more than a decade. The full 154-member company will perform two diverse programmes - ‘Giselle’, and a programme of mixed repertoire to include ‘Suite en blanc’ by Serge Lifar, Roland Petit’s ‘L’Arlésienne’, and ‘Le Boléro’ by Maurice Béjart.

Art & Design 28

The Art Connection

The Guggenheim is one of the world’s most prestigious networks of museums with ‘starchitect’- designed properties around the world housing some of the richest and most diverse art collections that the public arena has to offer. With the next Guggenheim currently being built by Frank Gehry in Abu Dhabi, there is plenty more to come. The Peninsula meets Ari Wiseman, former Deputy Director of the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles (MOCA) and currently Deputy Director of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation.

A Happy Accident

The work of William Furniss soulfully elevates the science of classic photography to an art - in particular through a hyperrepetitive approach to his subjects that makes being in the right place at the right time inevitable, given his extremes of patience. After the initial visualisation, some of his images take decades to achieve before the elements fall into place. Nature still plays an enormous role in shaping his work - extremes of sun, wind, tides, rain - not to mention the vagaries of human behaviour.

From Fashion To Fine Art

Seeing The Light

Photographer Rick Giles explores his love affair with light and nature through his collection of abstract images, simply and aptly entitled ‘Light’. Elements of our natural environment perhaps perceived as too mundane or miniscule in importance to notice, have been transformed by Giles into spectacular works of art. From not-so-humble fashion photography beginnings, most notably with Vogue, The New Yorker and GQ, this light-sensitive photographer has successfully segued into the art world.

Speak

Once Upon A Time...

Internationally acclaimed author Gay Talese never lets technology get in the way of getting a great story.

Legendary Johnson

Beverly Johnson is not a fearful woman, she knows what she wants out of life, and she takes it. From a very young age, she decided she needed to help with her family’s income and so she went on to become a model. In her early career, Johnson was given the honour of having her face on the cover of American Vogue, the most prestigious magazine in the world. That alone would be an accomplishment for any model, but the year was 1974 and Johnson was the first African-American woman to ever be featured on the cover of the magazine.

In The Raw

Picture yourself walking into an amusement park and jumping onto a rollercoaster. Well, hold onto the bar, because the story of Carol Alt is just like that rollercoaster – she’s exciting, fun, and has had a fascinating and diverse series of adventures in her career and in life. The Peninsula speaks to Alt, one of the world’s most prolific supermodels over the last three decades, about her career, how her diet changed her life, and her most recent projects.

The Glamorous Life

Simon Doonan proves that dynamite comes in a small box. A Reading boy born and bred, and an avid believer that everyone in fashion should start their careers on the retail floor, he is flamboyant but down-to-earth at the same time, something often difficult to achieve.

Pioneering An Industry

In fashion there is much talk about the legacy left by designers, photographers and magazines, but not many people look at a vital piece of the industry that connects all the dots: the modelling agency. Eileen and Jerry Ford were pioneers; founders of the Ford Model Agency, now simply known as Ford Models. One of the most established and recognisable brands in the world with offices spread throughout the continents, Ford is also the oldest and longest running modelling agency in the world, a true landmark of the fashion industry. For many people, the names Eileen and Jerry Ford may not mean much, but in the world of fashion, they are synonymous with royalty.

Some of the Big Apple’s most successful restaurants and bars are more than a hundred years old and still going strong...

Frankly Speaking

A guy from Hoboken who conquered the Big Apple with one classic song, Frank Sinatra remains in the hearts of New Yorkers even today.

Body, Mind, Spirit 94

A Model Doctor

The World of Peninsula

Fashion Forward

Dr. Valerie Steele is Director and Chief Curator of The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology. She has curated more than 20 exhibitions in the past decade, including Gothic: Dark Glamour; Love & War: The Weaponised Woman; The Corset: Fashioning the Body; London Fashion; and Femme Fatale: Fashion in Fin-deSiècle Paris, to name but a few.

A Serve Of History

Destination

New York State of Mind Images by Hyuna Shin.

Elite wedding stylist Julie Sabatino and The Peninsula New York have teamed up to help brides conduct a stress-free search for the dress of their dreams.

Eat

Style 58

A Stylish Solution

One former beauty queen’s brave health battle resulted in the new Dubin Breast Center of The Tisch Cancer Institute at New York’s Mt. Sinai Hospital where innovative, holistic attitudes are incorporated into traditional cancer treatments.

105

Concierge Choice

112

The Penultimate: A Sight To Be Seen

contributors Carol Chan

The Peninsula Hong Kong Salisbury Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong Telephone: (852) 2920 2888 Facsimile: (852) 2722 4170 E-mail: phk@peninsula.com The Peninsula Shanghai No 32 The Bund, 32 Zhongshan Dong Yi Road Shanghai 200002, The People’s Republic of China Telephone: (86-21) 2327 2888 Facsimile: (86-21) 2327 2800 E-mail: psh@peninsula.com The Peninsula Tokyo 1-8-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku Tokyo , 100-0006, Japan Tel: (81-3) 6270 2888 Fax: (81-3) 6270 2000 E-mail: ptk@peninsula.com The Peninsula Beijing 8 Goldfish Lane, Wangfujing, Beijing 100006, The People’s Republic of China Telephone: (86-10) 8516 2888 Facsimile: (86-10) 6510 6311 E-mail: pbj@peninsula.com The Peninsula New York 700 Fifth Avenue at 55th Street, New York, NY 10019, U.S.A. Telephone: (1-212) 956 2888 Facsimile: (1-212) 903 3949 E-mail: pny@peninsula.com The Peninsula Chicago 108 East Superior Street (at North Michigan Avenue), Chicago, IL 60611, U.S.A. Telephone: (1-312) 337 2888 Facsimile: (1-312) 751 2888 E-mail: pch@peninsula.com The Peninsula Beverly Hills 9882 South Santa Monica Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA 90212, U.S.A. Telephone: (1-310) 551 2888 Facsimile: (1-310) 788 2319 E-mail: pbh@peninsula.com The Peninsula Bangkok 333 Charoennakorn Road, Klongsan, Bangkok 10600, Thailand Telephone: (66-2) 861 2888 Facsimile: (66-2) 861 1112 E-mail: pbk@peninsula.com The Peninsula Manila Corner of Ayala & Makati Avenues, 1226 Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines Telephone: (63-2) 887 2888 Facsimile: (63-2) 815 4825 E-mail: pmn@peninsula.com Reservations can also be made through: The Peninsula Global Customer Service Centre 5/F, The Peninsula Office Tower, 18 Middle Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong Telephone: (852) 2926 2888 Facsimile: (852) 2732 2933 E-mail: reservation@peninsula.com Toll Free from: •Argentina: (0-800) 888 7227 •Australia: (1-800) 116 888 •Brazil: (0-800) 891 9601 •Canada: (011-800) 2828 3888 •North China: (10-800) 852 3888 •South China: (10-800) 152 3888 •France: (00-800) 3046 5111 •Germany: (00-800) 3046 5111 •Italy (800) 789 365 •Japan: (0053)165 0498 •Mexico: (01-800) 123 4646 •Russia: (810-800) 2536 1012 •Singapore: (001-800) 2828 3888 •Spain (900) 937 652 •Switzerland: (00-800) 3046 5111 •Taiwan: (00-800) 2828 3888 •Thailand: (001-800) 2828 3888 •U.K.: (00-800) 2828 3888 •U.S.A.: (1-866) 382 8388 The Peninsula Hotels Website: www.peninsula.com E-mail: info@peninsula.com

Carol was born in Macau but grew up in Hong Kong and in 2008 she graduated from Hong Kong Polytechnic University with a degree in Multimedia Design & Technologies. Her interests cover all fields of design and art as she takes inspiration from exhibitions, music and travel. Carol is the Chief Graphic Designer for The Peninsula magazine, creating not only the inside pages but also the striking, unique cover montage.

Russell Christopher

New York photo-journalist, Russell Christopher, has worked for magazines in the US and Asia. He is an avid bike rider and bike race aficionado whose favourite overseas destination is Paris -- during the Tour de France.

Andre Cooray

The multi-talented Andre Cooray is a writer, filmmaker and photographer. He was born in Hong Kong and studied Media Arts at Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia. The New York Film Academy in Los Angeles was his next stop, before moving to Mumbai, the heart of Bollywood, where he wrote for a variety of publications. He now resides in Hong Kong as a full-time writer.

Rachel Duffell

Born in Hong Kong and brought up in England, Rachel is now back in the SAR pursuing a career in journalism. Having studied Ancient History at Durham University and obtained a BA in Classical Civilisation, her work encompasses all of her passions, whether travel, art or history. Exploring the far corners of the globe, Rachel is now a full-time writer.

Rhonda Palmer

Rhonda Palmer is a New York-based journalist and magazine editor who has visited every continent in the world except Antarctica, which may possibly be her next stop. During an extensive period living and working in Asia, Rhonda was at the helm of various luxury lifestyle publications before moving to New York City to pursue similar ventures.

Gabriel Ruas Santos-Rocha

Gabriel Ruas Santos-Rocha studied journalism in his hometown of Porto Alegre, Brazil, where he started his career as a model scout for the renowned French modelling agency, Marilyn. Gabriel’s career in the modelling agency industry eventually brought him to New York City, where he worked for Elite Model Management, before joining Trump Models in January 2012. Currently, Gabriel also works as a contributor for the New York-based website ‘Look Books’ and is a writer client of Smart Magna in Europe and the Michael Moore Agency in the United States.

Hyuna Shin

Born in Seoul, Korea and currently based in Manhattan, Hyuna graduated from the Brook Institute of Photography with a Digital Imagine major. Her focus is on fashion and people photography. For Hyuna photography is a key to a gateway from reality to a visionary world.

Patty Sicular

Shaving the face of the city with his camera, William Furniss delivers images that capture the energy of a place at a specific moment in time. His passion for photography finds him burning shoe leather around the world. Furniss’ love affair with the momentum of people and places has been the subject matter of his numerous solo exhibitions.

Patty Sicular was born in New York City and raised in Sands Point on Long Island. She started her career as a location scout, later moving into advertising production. Patty worked at the Ford Model Agency in New York City for almost 25 years, most recently in the position of Vice President. She is now the Co-Director of IconicFocus where she works on fashion and beauty related projects, including documentaries, museum exhibits, books, archiving and curating. Patty is also the Director of ‘Trump Legends’ at Trump Model Management. Using her broad network of contacts built up over an extensive career, Patty is constantly seeking out stories of interest.

Dervla Louli

Ann Tsang

William Furniss

Dervla is a half-Irish, half-Egyptian, Saudi-born, Hong Kong resident. She studied Business and Law for her primary degree and International Finance for her Masters in Ireland. She has worked in many different fields including fashion, finance, event planning and marketing. Her international background and business knowledge give her a unique view on the fashion industry, which is fresh and logical with a touch of Irish humour. Published by: The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited 8th Floor, St George’s Building 2 Ice House Street, Central, Hong Kong Tel: +(852) 2840 7788 Email: pr@peninsula.com Editor-in-Chief and Creative Director: Ann Tsang Assistant Editor: Rachel Duffell Graphic Designer: Carol Chan and Lucy McNally Cover Image: Carol Chan

THE PENINSULA is published by The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited. Incorporated in 1866 and listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (00045), HSH is a holding company whose subsidiaries and its jointly controlled entity are engaged in the ownership and management of prestigious hotel, commercial and residential properties in key destinations in Asia and the USA. The hotel portfolio of the Group comprises The Peninsula Hong Kong, The Peninsula Shanghai, The Peninsula Beijing, The Peninsula New York, The Peninsula Chicago, The Peninsula Beverly Hills, The Peninsula Tokyo, The Peninsula Bangkok, The Peninsula Manila and The Peninsula Paris (opening in 2012). The property portfolio of the Group includes The Repulse Bay Complex, The Peak Tower and The Peak Tramways, St. John’s Building, The Landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and the Thai Country Club in Bangkok, Thailand.

Ann Tsang is the Editor-In-Chief and Creative Director for The Peninsula Magazine, as well as several luxury custom publications in Asia and the United States. She began her career in television, working for many of the world’s biggest broadcasters, and also ran her own marketing consultancy before founding The Antithesis, a bespoke, luxury publishing venture in Hong Kong. Media Agents: Hong Kong and Asia OMJ Media Suite B, 15/F, Casey Building 38 Lok Ku Road Sheung Wan Hong Kong Tel: (852) 2375 2311 Fax: (852) 2873 7442 Email: jeremy@omjmedia.com Herb Moskowitz The Media Representative Company Tel: (852) 9276 1011 Fax: (852) 2572 5468 Email: themediarep@gmail.com

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ORDERING FROM ADVERTISERS: Advertisers warrant and represent that the descriptions of the products or services advertised are true in all respects. THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI HOTELS, LIMITED assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI HOTELS, LIMITED, its officers, directors, employees or agents make no recommendations as to the purchase or sale of any product, service or item. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and are not necessarily those of THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI HOTELS, LIMITED. All content contained within this magazine is the sole property of THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI HOTELS, LIMITED and may not be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without authorisation. (c)Copyright 2012 by THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI HOTELS, LIMITED. All rights reserved. The PENINSULA is a trademark of the Peninsula Intellectual Property Limited.

Image ÂŠ Agarthe Poupeney

backstage: from Paris to the Harris Text: Ann Tsang Images: Courtesy of the Harris Theater and the Paris Opéra Ballet

This summer, the Harris Theater for Music and Dance will present the first ever Chicago and Midwest appearances of the Paris Opéra Ballet, described by Ballet News UK as “one of the world’s greatest companies”. The engagement launches the company’s 2012 North American Tour, with their first US performances in more than a decade. The full 154-member company will perform two diverse programmes - ‘Giselle’, and a programme of mixed repertoire to include ‘Suite en blanc’ by Serge Lifar, Roland Petit’s ‘L’Arlésienne’, and ‘Le Boléro’ by Maurice Béjart - accompanied by the Grant Park Orchestra in a first ever collaboration with the Harris Theater.

Image ÂŠ Agarthe Poupeney

The Paris Opéra Ballet is today considered to be one of the world's finest companies. The average age of the performers is 25, making it also one of the youngest. Its repertoire is extremely diverse, ranging from the major romantic and classical ballets to creations by contemporary choreographers. The Ballet currently stages some 180 performances per season in Paris, the French regions and abroad. The Paris Opéra Ballet was the birthplace of classical dance. It was here that the fundamental principles of ballet technique, imported from Italy by Catherine de Medici in the 16th Century, were painstakingly developed and perfected by the court ballets in a process that continued under the reign of Louis XIV. The Sun King, who wished to transform noble style into a genuine stage art, founded the Royal Academy of Dance in 1661. It would be the first French institution responsible for establishing the rules of dance and for teaching. In 1669, he inaugurated the Royal Academy of Music (the Paris Opéra’s original name) which became home to Europe’s first professional dance troupe. When, in 1713, he gave orders for the creation of the dance school, the essential foundations were laid to ensure the future development of a professional company. Throughout its history, the Paris Opéra Ballet has, without interruption, pursued its dual vocation as both a repository for the repertoire and a centre for creation. From as early on as the 18th Century, French dancers and choreographers would perform all over Europe and return to Paris with foreign influences. Among the illustrious initiators of these exchanges were Jean-Georges Noverre (in Germany, London and Vienna); August Bournonville (in Denmark); Charles-Louis Didelot, Jules Perrot, Arthur Saint-Léon and Marius Petipa (in Russia); and the Vigano and Taglioni families (in Italy). This process reached a pinnacle in the 19th Century with the creation of ‘La Sylphide’ by Philippe Taglioni (1832), the first ballet to be danced in white tutus, and ‘Giselle’ by Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot (1841), which marked the peak of the romantic period. Making use of techniques that were avant-garde for the times (pointes, vols suspendus), this form of choreography was soon to become the hallmark of the magical universe of the ‘ballet blanc’ and the ballerina’s vocabulary. In the 20th Century, the Company explored new realms of dance under the guidance of several great ballet masters and choreographers, in particular Serge Lifar and Rudolf Nureyev, who would considerably extend the repertoire. Famous dancers such as Albert Aveline, Carlotta Zambelli, Lycette Darsonval and Yvette Chauviré would also contribute to the company’s excellence by making available their savoir-faire through the ballet school.

Today, the Paris Opéra Ballet, whose future development is carefully watched over by Brigitte Lefèvre, remains a vital centre for the living arts, alternating revivals and new works and playing host to the greatest contemporary choreographers and numerous foreign dance companies. The Company has a vast repertoire including references to both romantic and classical; works from Serge Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes; modern choreographers (Martha Graham, José Limon); neoclassical ballets (George Balanchine, Roland Petit, Jerome Robbins, John Neumeier and John Cranko); contemporary works (Alvin Ailey, Pina Bausch, Maurice Béjart, Carolyn Carlson, Merce Cunningham, Nacho Duato, Mats Ek, William Forsythe, Jirí Kylián, Ohad Naharin, Alwin Nikolaïs); and newly-commissioned works by guest choreographers and artists from the Company. Brigitte Lefèvre has been Director of Dance at the Paris Opéra since 1995. A product of the famed Paris Opéra Ballet School, and a former dancer with the Company, she has also been a noted choreographer and teacher. Committed to maintaining the great historic traditions and classical ballets (including overseeing revivals of Rudolf Nureyev productions), as well as noted works of the 20th Century, Ms. Lefèvre has also built the Company’s future legacy, guiding the creation and introduction of new works. Choreographers who have created or set their work with the Company since her tenure began include, among others, Pina Bausch, Trisha Brown, Maurice Béjart, Carolyn Carlson, Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker, Mats Ek, William Forsythe, Jirí Kylián, Susanne Linke, Édouard Lock, Wayne McGregor, Benjamin Millepied, John Neumeier, Robyn Orlin, Angelin Preljocaj, Alexei Ratmansky, Saburo Teshigawara and Sasha Waltz.

Brigitte Lefèvre, Image © Anne Deniau

The Paris Opéra Ballet is composed of 154 dancers, drawn for the most part, from the Paris Opéra Ballet School directed by Elisabeth Platel. The average age is around 25, making this one of the most youthful of today’s companies. Dancers usually join the ballet between the ages of 16 and 20 and continue their career through to the age of approximately 42. The Ballet is directed and managed by Brigitte Lefèvre, assisted by Administrator Olivier Aldeano, Ballet Master Laurent Hilaire, two other ballet masters, four assistant ballet masters, a stage manager and five assistant stage managers. Six teachers run daily morning lessons. The afternoons are set aside for rehearsals which can also be held in the evening when there is no performance.

Images © Gérard Uféras

Image ÂŠ Jacques Moatti

Image © Anne Deniau

‘Giselle’, the archetypal masterpiece of the ‘ballet blanc’, was first performed on the stage of the Royal Academy of Music on June 28th, 1841. The work marked the apogee of Romantic aesthetics which shook up the intellectual and artistic world from the beginning of the 19th Century. The current production of ‘Giselle’ was updated in 1991 by Patrice Bart and Eugene Polyakov, who adapted the original choreography of Jean Coralli, Jules Perrot and Marius Petipa to the Breton-inspired sets of Loic Le Groumellec. Their adaptation combines the English and Russian traditions of ‘Giselle’, thanks to Bart’s choreographic heritage acquired from Mary Skeaping and Eugene Polyakov’s experience as a former student of the Bolshoi. Since 1998, the production has been performed using the sets and costumes of Alexandre Benois – painter for the Ballets Russes – completed in 1924 for the revival of ‘Giselle’ at the Paris Opéra. Conceived in only two months, the ballet was the combined creation of numerous artists: Theophile Gautier, writer, art critic and chronicler of ballet; Jules-Henri Vernoy de Saint-Georges, the dramatist renowned for his vaudeville; Adolphe Adam, composer of ballet music, choreographer Jean Coralli, assisted in the wings by Jules Perrot; set designer Pierre Ciceri, a specialist in fantasy forests; and costume designer Paul Lormier. Exceptional performers Carlotta Grisi and Lucien Petipa brought the production to life.

The ballet was a major success from its first performance, which in turn ensured its popularity beyond the Parisian stage. In 1842, it was staged in London by Jules Perrot and in St. Petersburg by Antoine Titus. In 1843, Antonio Cortesi staged it in Milan and the work even crossed the Atlantic. ‘Giselle’ remained a staple at the Paris Opéra until 1868. After that, it would probably have fallen into oblivion had it not been revived and enriched by Marius Petipa in St. Petersburg during the 1880s. In 1910, a guest appearance by Serge Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes at the Palais Garnier brought the work back to the French stage. Since then, it has featured in the repertoire of the great international companies, offering possibilities for reinterpretation to the most contemporary of modern choreographers. During the 18th Century, ballet master Jean Georges Noverre’s dream of enabling ballet to recount a story through dance alone was finally realised in this work. It is perhaps because of this that the work has endured so long and retained its contemporary aura. ‘Giselle’ undeniably helped to assert the artistic autonomy of the ‘ballet blanc’, endowing it with its own imaginary world and choreographic identity.

Undeniably, the three ballets being presented in the second programme at the Harris, ‘Epic French Masterpieces’, underline the diversity of the paths followed by 20th Century NeoClassicism and the wealth of the dialogue they weave at the heart of the Paris Opéra Ballet’s repertoire. Having been performed by several generations of dancers at the Paris Opéra, these ballets continue to bring forth new talent and stand out for their singular modernity. Opening the program is Serge Lifar’s ‘Suite en blanc’ (1943) choreographed by Edouard Lalo. Created in 1943 at the height of his fame, Serge Lifar had already long been observing the evolution of academic technique in choreographic creation. Seeking to sum up his own research started in 1929, his ballet was conceived as a work of “pure dance”, its ambition being “to present the innovations of our times.” Composed of a series of variations d’école, pas de trois, pas de cinq, adages and ensembles, it is a synthesis of the choreographer’s neoclassical art. As one of his rare abstract ballets, ‘Suite en blanc’ was an immediate and long-lived success, performed for the 300th time as early as 1961, and more than 400 times today. The second featured work is Roland Petit’s ‘L’Arlésienne’, choreographed to Georges Bizet’s ‘L’Arlésienne’. A grand master of narrative with a deft hand at creating pictorial and literary atmospheres, Roland Petit fills his ballets with contemporary force and pace, offering the dancers the opportunity to also showcase their acting talents in perfectly tailored roles. His lively and polished writing, supported by the melodic flow of Bizet’s score, captures the dramatic tension of Daudet’s tale and reproduces in Fauvist-tinted images the tragic passion of the handsome Frederi for his unfaithful Arlésienne.

Image © Sébastien Mathé

First set to dance in Bronislava Nijinska’s choreography in 1928, ‘Boléro’, Maurice Ravel’s powerful and haunting score, has caught the imagination of the world’s finest choreographers, including Harald Lander, Michel Fokine, Serge Lifar, Aurel Milloss, and also, more recently, Odile Duboc and Roland Petit. In Maurice Béjart’s version of ‘Boléro’ – the first work created for the Ballet du me siècle founded in 1961 - the choreographer returns to the initial idea of a work danced on a large table and symbolising an erotic rite. However, he refines its Spanish style and concentrates on a single soloist surrounded by a group whose respective movements perfectly interpret the music. Danced in turn by a woman surrounded by men, a man surrounded by women or simply by men, his ‘Boléro’ takes on mystic and sensual colours.

Image © Laurent Philippe

Image by Lakshmi Harilela

Built at a cost of US$52.7 million, the Harris Theater officially opened in November 2003 and now presents an average of 115 performances a year from September through June. The 1,470 seat, state-of-the-art performance venue is proud to be the home of a myriad of Chicago’s most exciting music and dance companies, including Chicago Opera Theater, Music of the Baroque and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, as well as serving as host to internationally renowned companies and artists, including the San Francisco Ballet, the New York City Ballet, Daniel Barenboim, Renée Flemin, Mikhail Baryshnikov and Lang Lang. The Harris Theater’s mission is to partner and collaborate with an array of Chicago’s emerging and mid-sized performing arts organisations to help them build the resources and infrastructure necessary to achieve artistic growth and long-term organisational sustainability. The Harris Theater was the first multi-use performing arts venue to be built in the Chicago downtown area since 1929 and today the Theater continues to host the most diverse offerings of any venue in Chicago, featuring the city’s world-renowned music and dance institutions and the ‘Harris Theater Presents’ series of acclaimed national and international artists and ensembles.

“There is only one Paris Opéra Ballet,” says Michael Tiknis, President and Managing Director of the Harris Theater. “This engagement offers the opportunity of a lifetime to see the world’s finest company perform ‘Giselle’ - a trademark of their repertoire since 1841 - in their first American performance in more than a decade. Without question, this will be the highlight of Chicago’s dance season.” “For the first time in more than a decade, the Paris Opéra Ballet will return to America and has chosen to open its 2012 tour at Chicago's magnificent Harris Theater,” says Brigitte Lefèvre, Company Director of the Paris Opéra Ballet. “The Theater's intimate feel and outstanding sightlines provide the ideal canvas to stage some of our most beloved and iconic works. We eagerly anticipate our Chicago debut performances and the opportunity to meet the city's extraordinary arts patrons.” This engagement is also a momentous occasion for the city of Chicago. “It’s wonderful that the Paris Opéra Ballet has chosen the City of Chicago as the first appearance of their North American tour,” says Mayor Rahm Emanuel. “I am committed to making

Image by Lakshmi Harilela

Chicago a worldwide destination for dance and with the Harris Theater as its host, accompanied by our very own Grant Park Orchestra, this will be a unique opportunity for Chicago’s world class arts community to collaborate with the world-famous Paris Opéra Ballet.” Abby McCormick O’Neil, Chairman of the Harris Theater Board of Trustees concurs, stating, “The Paris Opéra Ballet’s decision to launch their 2012 American Tour with its first-ever appearance in Chicago secures the city’s stature as one of the nation’s pre-eminent destinations for dance and also underscores the Harris Theater’s role as the city’s premier venue to experience groundbreaking dance in an intimate setting. This week-long engagement by one of the world’s oldest and most renowned dance companies highlights the Harris Theater’s mission and its continuing commitment both to present world-renowned artists and innovative programming that otherwise would not be seen in Chicago, and to simultaneously reach out to new audiences and build support for the 35 emerging and midsize organisations that call the Harris Theater home.”

At the Harris Theater, Chicago Program A: Giselle June 27 and 28 at 7:30 pm Program B: Epic French Masterpieces Lifar’s Suite en blanc / Petit’s L’Arlésienne / Béjart’s Le Boléro June 29 at 7:30 pm June 30 at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm July 1, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets, $55-$135, are available at www.HarrisTheaterChicago.org, by phone at +1 312-334-7777, or in person at the Harris Theater Box Office, 205 East Randolph, Chicago. At the David H. Koch Theater, New York Giselle July 13 at 8:00 pm July 14 at 2:00 pm and 8:00 pm July 17, 18, and 19 at 8:00 pm French Masters of the 20th Century July 11 and 12 at 8:00 pm and July 15 at 3:00 pm Orpheus and Eurydice July 20 and 21 at 8:00 PM and July 22 at 3 PM Lincoln Center, 70 West 63rd Street, New York

Image courtesy of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation

the art connection Text: Rachel Duffell

The Guggenheim is one of the world’s most prestigious networks of museums with ‘starchitect’designed properties around the world housing some of the richest and most diverse art collections that the public arena has to offer. With the next Guggenheim currently being built by Frank Gehry in Abu Dhabi, there is plenty more to come. The Peninsula meets Ari Wiseman, former Deputy Director of the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles (MOCA) and currently Deputy Director of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation.

he Guggenheim stands apart from the many other art institutions, not only for the buildings in which its collections are housed, but also for its role as a leader in the art world. With an esteemed history, The Guggenheim has continued to move with the times and is viewed as a contemporary and progressive institution with far-reaching influence. As Ari Wiseman, Deputy Director of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation confirms, it plans to persevere in holding its position at the forefront of the world of public art. “The Guggenheim is a progressive project and it continues to evolve and look forward, which is fundamental for any museum.” From the original Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum - widely referred to as ‘The Guggenheim’ - in New York, and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection on the Grand Canal in Venice, to institutions in both Berlin and Bilbao, the Spanish municipality which barely featured on cultural maps until The Guggenheim’s presence made it popular, The Guggenheim Foundation has an extensive international network of four museums - each home to some of the world’s most sought-after art - with a fifth currently under construction in Abu Dhabi, due for completion in 2013. The first museum built in the Guggenheim network, located on New York’s Fifth Avenue, today holds almost iconic status. Once called the Museum of Non-Objective Painting, it initially housed a plethora of pieces belonging to Solomon R. Guggenheim and his wife Irene Rothschild who founded the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation in 1937 for the “promotion and encouragement and education in art and the enlightenment of the public.” American Solomon R. Guggenheim was a wealthy businessman who in the late 1920s had begun to put together a collection of artworks. He and his wife, with a friend by the name of Hilla Rebay, went on a trip to Europe in 1929 and it was here that they acquired the first of what would become a collection of more than 150 works by one artist, Russian painter Wassily Kandinsky. Other works that went on to make up this initial collection were by artists including Delauney, Leger and Chagall. Returning to New York, the Guggenheims rented a former automobile store in 1939 to house their collection and Rebay became their curator. She was a woman with a strong belief in the promotion of art to which she made an impassioned commitment. The Museum of Non-Objective Painting was thus founded. As the philosophies of both the Guggenheims and Rebay grew, the trio decided to build something permanent in which to house their ever-growing collection, going on in 1943 to enlist America’s greatest architect Frank Lloyd Wright to design it. They felt Lloyd Wright’s ideas of organic architecture reflected the direction of the collection they had put together. The museum opened on October 21st, 1959, sadly after the deaths of both Wright and Solomon, but having purchased the estate of New York art dealer Karl Nierendorf in 1948 and with the employment of James Johnson Sweeney in 1953, the collection had expanded beyond the boundaries that Rebay had set. With the addition of the name change and the increased scope of the art within, The Guggenheim had established a firm foundation which would later be significantly embellished by the addition of works from a range of prestigious collections.

Meanwhile, Peggy Guggenheim, a niece of Solomon, had become involved in the art world in her own way. In the early 1920s, after staging a number of exhibitions in New York, Peggy had moved to Europe where she had become a part of Parisian bohemian society. She passed her days befriending artists such as Brancusi and Duchamp and developing her own collection, acquiring works by prominent artists including Picasso, Dali, Magritte, de Chirico, Miro and Mondrian, among many others. Again, there was the requirement of somewhere to house these impressive works, so when an 18th Century, one-storey Palazzo on the Grand Canal in Venice became available, she purchased it and installed her impressive collection of art there, later opening it to the public. In 1979 Peggy passed away, but she bequeathed the collection to the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation and so the network of museums began. While the museum was a stark contrast architecturally to the contemporary creation of Lloyd Wright, it nevertheless fitted into the ethos of the Guggenheim Foundation - it stood out from its surroundings and was the perfect place to house such a prestigious art collection set against the backdrop of a traditional city. Throughout its existence the museum has become one of Venice’s great treasures, and today is the third most-visited site in the Italian city. Over the years that followed, the Guggenheim Foundation continued to acquire collections and art works from all genres. During the course of the 1990s, the collection increased in size by 50 percent with forays into the worlds of contemporary photography and multimedia art. In 1997, The Guggenheim expanded to include the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and the Deutsche Guggenheim in Berlin. The Bilbao museum was built by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry and transformed a gritty mercantile town into an economic and cultural destination in a phenomena that has been widely termed as the ‘Bilbao Effect’. The collection is both international and local, and the museum houses comparatively newer pieces by the likes of Robert Rauschenberg, Cy Twombly, Andy Warhol and Jeff Koons. The Deutsche Guggenheim in Berlin has yet another focus, and contains the collection of Deutsche Bank rather than its own autonomous collection, though it is still a valued contributor to the network of institutions. In 2001 The Guggenheim Foundation embarked on a temporary project with the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, and opened the Guggenheim Hermitage Museum at the Venetian Resort-Hotel-Casino in Las Vegas. Hugely successful exhibitions ran in the Rem Koolhaasdesigned museum during its seven year tenure. The Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is due to open at the end of 2013. Another creation of architect Gehry, it will cover 450,000 square feet and is situated amidst the desert landscape and seascape of a peninsula on Saadiyat Island, close to Abu Dhabi. To house the art collections in such pinnacles of architectural prowess is an important part of what makes the Guggenheim’s network and is a reflection of its philosophies. “It’s in the DNA of the institution,” states Wiseman. “The selection of Frank Lloyd Wright set the course of history for the institution. It’s an incredible building. In Berlin we are in a historic building; I think it was the Deutsche Bank Headquarters at one time,” he adds. And of course, Gehry’s Bilbao structure and Venice’s historical building only add further. Abu Dhabi’s collection is under development, and an educational programme is set to be a major component. The purpose of the Guggenheim museum network has always been to encourage education in art through its public display.

Image by Lakshmi Harilela

Image courtesy of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation

With institutions already in the US and Europe, there seems to be a hole in the network when it comes to the East. “Asia is an incredibly rich and exciting region,” states Wiseman when asked about the Guggenheim’s lack of presence in the region. “We have an initiative within the museum to present Asian artists…but who knows what the future holds? We have no specific plans for an affiliate institution. Perhaps it’s because in Asia there is so much development of the new. It may be through other alliances that we can learn from and participate. Our model does not require a physical Guggenheim.” At the same time, Asia is just one place that seems to interest Wiseman. “Latin America is an exciting, rich place and we are beginning to think about the role we might have there. But it’s just the beginning.” Following Abu Dhabi, expansion physically is therefore not necessarily the next step for The Guggenheim Foundation. Wiseman is keen to stress that the future is not in building more institutions around the world. “The global network is something we are learning from. It’s something that was conceived more centrally but we are interested in making it more open. It’s an idea that doesn’t necessarily require institutions and it could be through collaborations with corporations and institutions. It doesn’t need to have a presence internationally to be global.” The Guggenheim’s recent collaboration with BMW marks the start of this idea. The museum has embarked on a six year, private-public partnership involving three phases and three architects, each of whom will build a travelling space. Each space will visit three global cities, that’s nine major places globally, spanning America, Europe and Asia. “The buildings will move to different cities in order to connect - to scientists, universities, thinkers and the public; we are partnering with local communities,” states Wiseman. The purpose is to create solutions to problems within the community by connecting with that community be it through art, architecture, design, science, technology or education. Hoping to inspire ideas that aid urban life, it is an evolution of the Guggenheim network and an educative and idea sharing platform which not only incorporates art and architecture, but also other disciplines and sees the Foundation expanding its thinking. This project and Wiseman’s thoughts on the future of the network show that there is no doubt plenty more to come from The Guggenheim Foundation, both in the forms in which we know it at the moment, and in new and innovative presences. It is incredible to think that an institution such as The Guggenheim Foundation which can boast nearly three million annual visitors worldwide with a network that is one of the most visited cultural institutions in the world - has continued to expand and evolve while still keeping the same standards and the highest quality programmes throughout its global network. With the opening of the new Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and with other projects to establish connections globally, let’s hope it can continue to bring the same calibre and quality of art to the world and to educate to the standards it has up until today, thus preserving the early philosophies of The Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation.

‘NY Taxi’

a happy accident Text: Ann Tsang Images: William Furniss

The work of William Furniss soulfully elevates the science of classic photography to an art - in particular through a hyper-repetitive approach to his subjects that makes being in the right place at the right time inevitable, given his extremes of patience. After the initial visualisation, some of his images take decades to achieve before the elements fall into place. Nature still plays an enormous role in shaping his work - extremes of sun, wind, tides, rain - not to mention the vagaries of human behaviour.

Top to bottom: ‘Sunset’, ‘Treeline’, ‘Subway’

‘Brooklyn Bridge’

illiam Furniss was born in London in 1970. An early interest in science and design led to an engineering degree at Exeter University in England before beginning his photographic career in 1991. Initially taken with the idea of working as a portrait and fashion photographer, Furniss assisted luminaries of the London scene such as Patrick Litchfield and Terry O’Neill. In 1993 Furniss was encouraged by friends already in residence to visit Hong Kong. Deng Xiaoping reputedly said “To get rich is glorious” and the world’s focus had suddenly swung towards China. Fully intending to continue portrait photography on arriving in Hong Kong, his work took a profound change of direction. The alien visual landscape of the city reignited a fascination with documenting the immediate environment; the rural English landscapes of his youth now being replaced by the chaotic cityscapes of Asia. Initial simple and straightforward records on film developed into ever more complicated narratives through multiple exposures and contact sheets. Furniss’ lust for all things urban led him to New York in 1999 with two years spent developing his approach which today favours previsualisation of the image and camera-only manipulations to create a subjective but recognisable record of our time. Furniss’ series of multiple exposure photographic compositions entitled ‘114°E 74°W in camera’ was born out of a happy accident. As a diversion from the predictability of today's modern cameras, the photographer decided to follow his impulse and buy an old Agfa snapshot camera at a flea market. Although made in the 1950's, the

camera used 120 roll film and as a result of his first errors with the camera and a roll of colour transparency film, Furniss realised there might be an opportunity to exploit the fact that the shutter release on the lens and the wind-on of the film were not in any way connected, meaning it was possible to take as many shots on a roll as he wished, just by overlapping the frames. The result was a roll of pictures of New York architecture all jumbled on top of each other - not very good, but certainly some parts were encouraging enough to pursue the idea of turning one roll of film into one very long panorama. Two years later, many miles of pavement covered, and with countless rolls of film and ideas exposed and discarded, Manhattan and Hong Kong met for their first photographic comparative study. Each piece in the series comprises one photographic image of Hong Kong and one of Manhattan. No computer tricks were used to splice the film, and each roll was exposed in one session. For instance, the image of the skyscraper made up of different sections of Hong Kong buildings was all shot over the course of one day, whereas its counterpart, the piece entitled ‘Uptown’, an image of 5th Avenue in New York, was done in the space of about 45 minutes during a very specific period in the day when the sun shone straight down the Avenue. All the images comprising ‘114°E 74°W’ are based on the same concept, but the physical and photographic methods reached were unique to each one. Very few of these extreme panoramas came out first time and most had to be repeated many times to get them right. With weather conditions and time of year also being contributing factors, some of the images actually took up to two years to finally work out. Not exactly the snapshots the old Agfa was meant for...

Top to bottom: ‘NY Neon’, ‘8th Avenue’, ‘Manhattan’

from fashion to fine art Text: Rachel Duffellâ&#x20AC;&#x192; Portrait: Lucy McNally Images: David LaChapelle courtesy of de Sarthe Fine Art

David LaChapelleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talent was spotted by Andy Warhol in the early 1980s. Since then LaChapelle has photographed a host of celebrities, placing them in his cinematic, dynamic and instantly recognisable images. In 2006 he cut himself off from that world, disillusioned by the increasing constraints that were being put on him and his photographic expression. Recently he returned to photography, this time pursuing it purely as an art form and a means to convey the messages that the fashion world had previously tried to contain.

‘Madonna Furious Seasons’ © David LaChapelle, Courtesy de Sarthe Gallery

‘Muhammad Ali How Heroes Are’ © David LaChapelle, Courtesy de Sarthe Gallery

The Peninsula: What was it that first made you want to leave the world of fashion and editorial photography which was where you made your name? David LaChapelle: The time had come. The last time I did a fashion editorial was in 2006 and that part of my life had reached its end and its climax. I have lived my life fairly intuitively and at that stage my third book of photographs had come out and it was getting increasingly difficult to get my pictures published in fashion magazines. I was commenting, very paradoxically, on materialism. The subtext was getting heavier as I got older. I was looking at things and questioning them in more obvious ways than the magazines would prefer and the pictures were outgrowing the idea of what they were there for. It got to the point where the concepts were, in the eyes of the editors, interfering with what they were selling. I also felt I just couldn’t go on taking photographs of celebrities. That just didn’t interest me any more. There were many signs pointing to it being over. I had always wanted a cabin in the woods. I have been going to a little town in Maui to get away from everything for years. I was there doing a job recently and a friend told me there was a farm for sale. I knew then that this was what I had been looking for and I stopped worked altogether to do up the farm. But then the gallery thing came up and it was like a rebirth. I didn’t think I would be taking pictures anymore. I thought I was going to be a farmer in Hawaii, but I knew I had more pictures left in me, so I was a little sad about that. When the chance came up to work with galleries and to do whatever I wanted, a door opened that I didn’t think could open. I’m very committed to the pictures that I’m doing and I really want to make them as clear as possible and communicate as well as I can.

TP: How have you found the art world and the creation of works for galleries and museums? DL: It’s what I started with, so in a sense I have come full circle. I started in galleries in the 1980s in New York. At my second gallery showing I was asked to work for Interview, Andy Warhol’s magazine, where I worked up until his death. I took the last portrait of Andy before he died. That all led to a 20-year career. But it has been great. In the 1980s I was doing the same kind of thing that I am now - printing, cutting up negatives and making collages. There’s a connection between my latest exhibitions and the very beginning. It didn’t just pop up out of the blue. In those early shows I was creating experimental images and again trying to depict the undepictable ideas of life after death, the soul and spirit. At that time a lot of my friends were dying of AIDS in their early 20s and I was trying to get my head around it. Where does all the energy of a young person like that go if energy can’t be destroyed? I spent a long time trying to show that idea which is where my early work came from. My artistic concerns today address similar issues. TP: Aside from creating new works for art exhibition, is there anything else that you still want to do artistically? DL: No, I love taking photographs. I love doing what I’m doing right now, exhibiting and making shows or series of work for museums and galleries. I find it really fulfilling and it’s up to me to make it as challenging as I want to make it. If it’s not challenging then that’s my own problem. The still image is as powerful as any other form of art. I have a great deal of freedom with what I do right now, and a perfect balance. And I have time in my life for other things, because I think that in order to be my best, just as a human being first of all, and an artist secondly, I need to have balance. Hollywood isn’t something that interests me. Filmmaking doesn’t interest me. I still occasionally do a job that I guess is in the commercial realm, if it fits into my schedule, it’s something fun, and all the elements are in place. But it’s only two or three days of my time, and the benefit of that is that it keeps my crew working.

‘Spiral Jetty’ © David LaChapelle Courtesy de Sarthe Gallery

I have 21 of the first things that Keith Haring ever created and I have all the original drawings for the self-published book that he printed for kids. I also have the last painting that he was working on before he died. It’s called ‘The Last Rainforest’ and it has never been offered for sale. I bought it from his lifelong dealer who was also my dealer for a long time. The piece just spoke to me. I bought Warhol’s work because he was my boss. I wish I had had the money when he was alive. I wanted to honour his work, so fortunately when when I was making money, it was before his prices sky-rocketed. They are beautiful pieces to have and they have personal attachment because he was my hero. TP: Warhol was the King of Pop Art. Has your work also been strongly influence by Pop Culture? DL: I love Popular Culture. I love glamour, beauty. I love fashion. I think those are things that mark civilisation. Adornment has been with us since the Egyptians and the Incas. People aren’t used to seeing that in gallery photographs...women with make-up in dresses. But I push that because I don’t necessarily want my pictures to look like art photographs. I find that a lot of art photographs have a certain look that mark them out as something that can’t be anything but an art photograph. I want to use all the things that I love and be true to myself.

It’s a much better life now than I had before, much more balanced, and I have time to think and to take care of myself. I’m much kinder to myself and subsequently everyone around me. I was a workaholic and there’s a price to pay. You trade off things. But thank goodness I still feel young and healthy and I can enjoy my life. I now have balance and I’m able to show in galleries.

TP: What is your creative process? DL: I have drawings and sketches of images I haven’t even taken yet and those are really what drive me. I have several series going at once, but they are quite separate. It’s just fun to have various things going on, image making and different stages of things. I have a pretty large crew and there are many people involved from beginning to end. But I’m pretty hands-on with what I do. I cut pictures up and glue them onto the wall for the collages. I really enjoy the process of making things. My shoots are circus-like, a freefor-all where people just wander in and out. But it doesn’t bother me as I can stay very focused through chaotic shoot days. These days I spend much more time in the process of drawing and thinking about what a series will look like, or what particular images will look like, what they will incorporate and I spend a lot more time finishing them. I will go back and reshoot something if I don’t like it and can spend a lot more time with my works. It’s a luxury compared to having to always make a deadline and have that pressure. It’s a completely different way of working. But I learned everything with magazines. I cut my teeth on that and it was a great arena to learn how to achieve what you wanted.

TP: Your role today is one of a gallery artist. You also have an art collection yourself - how did that come about? DL: I wanted to be an artist when I was a kid, but it never occurred to me that it was a way to make money or to be famous. I left school at 15, and moved to the East Village. I just wanted to give something. I wanted to touch and excite people. When I started making money from photography, it was so bizarre. I struggled for so long just to cover the bills and photography is expensive. All I ever wanted to do was stay afloat. And then it got to a point that wanted to do something with the money that would keep my few employees that I had then, so I financed the film ‘Rise’. And then I bought my friends’ artwork - mentors and people I loved - Andy Warhol, Keith Haring...I always wanted something that I knew I could sell if need be, and pay my employees. But luckily I never had to sell any of those paintings and they do give me a great deal of pleasure. It’s different from buying anything else. You buy art because you love it or have a personal attachment to it. There’s something beautiful about owning something that someone created and that you feel really speaks to you.

TP: Do you have any standout moments from your career, or particularly memorable shoots? DL: When you work with people and celebrities, you immediately see what they are about. I never aspire to be friends with the people I photograph. I’m buddies with my crew and that’s who I have fun with. But Pamela Anderson became my most loyal friend and has been since I was really just a kid. One of my first jobs at Condé Nast was for Details magazine and one of the first assignments was her first season of ‘Baywatch’. We didn’t plan on being friends but we wound up doing some jobs together and we’ve been through all sorts of up and downs. She’s a really caring friend, she has a great sense of humour, and she’s actually really smart. Her father is in Mensa and she’s very into the philosopher Carl Jung. But she also just has this joy of living and laughter and making people feel comfortable when she walks into a room. She’s lovely to everyone in a very authentic way, even though she may not appear that way. You just can’t judge a book by its cover. That’s something I learned pretty early on. You can never judge a person by what you think they are about, as you will always be surprised.

‘Collapse In A Garden’ © David LaChapelle Courtesy de Sarthe Gallery

seeing the light Text & Portrait: Andre Cooray Images: Rick Giles

Photographer Rick Giles explores his love affair with light and nature through his collection of abstract images, simply and aptly entitled ‘Light’. Elements of our natural environment perhaps perceived as too mundane or miniscule in importance to notice, have been transformed by Giles into spectacular works of art. From not-sohumble fashion photography beginnings, most notably with Vogue, The New Yorker and GQ, this light sensitive photographer has successfully segued into the art world.

To be perfectly honest until I moved to New York 12 years ago I didn’t really know what light was. I grew up in London where the light is very similar all year round. In America there are very distinct seasons of winter, spring, summer and fall,” says photographer Nick Giles with a childlike wonder. His green eyes with bright flecks of yellow have an uncanny resemblance to one of his abstract photos that explore the phenomenon of light. Perhaps we now live in an age where artists and their work become one-in-thesame in a physical sense, as in the case of Giles where the two are so inextricably intertwined. It’s impossible for Giles to contain his sheer fascination with light and nature, the simple yet edifying concept behind his most recent series. Shot entirely on his seven-acre plot in Connecticut (apparently small by American standards), ‘Light’ documents the various moods created each time the season changes. He also refers to the collection as ‘23.5 degrees’ which is the axis at which the earth revolves around the sun. “It’s what causes us to have seasons, because the earth moves at different distances to the sun,” explains Giles in awe of the planet we inhabit.

‘Winter 6’

Many of his photos are taken from within an old tobacco barn on his property. “They left gaps between the sides to dry the tobacco so the wind could come in and light streams into the barn. At different times of the year the light changed and thus the feeling changed within the barn itself depending on whether there were any leaves on the trees or whether the grass was green,” adds Giles, who spent countless hours studying the changes in light within this dark space.

shots of undergrowth from trees and on grass are taken with a zoom lens. The resulting images are visually stunning, unique, and appear to convey the unadulterated emotions of nature - translating what the light is trying communicate to us through photography. The underlying theme of his work has always been nature and Giles’ relationship with it at the time; and is therefore an extension of himself.

The light entering the barn really accentuated the reflected hues from outside and sparked Giles’ curiosity about how the light was changing in response to a particular season. Thus, the real inspiration for his latest work came after moving from New York City to the New England countryside where a new set of emotions and feelings unravelled within the photographer. “The starkness of the images, particularly the winter ones, expressed how I was feeling, the isolation of moving from the city to the countryside,” he reveals.

‘Light’ is about the freedom to explore nature at its most basic level, something that many city dwellers take for granted as they become entangled within the daily hustle and bustle of city life. Giles’ subtle internalisation of light and the seasons allows viewers to escape the rat race, encouraging them to visit more natural environments and experience the wonder of them, first hand. Giles’ images are not digitally manipulated in any shape or form, in keeping with his organic theme.

Giles takes all his images using one frame and moves the camera in different directions to literally ‘paint’ the light. ‘Winter 6’ is a stunning wide shot taken of the barn in which he moves backwards while the camera shutter is open to draw the light in. The resulting image is both powerful and spiritual - and can never be replicated as it is impossible to repeat the exact movements and light conditions. Reflections from outside the barn, such as those from the sky, are captured from inside by the artist.

Social documentation and themes related to his relationship with the world, be it people or the environment, is what drives Giles’ work. In his ‘Hitch’ series exhibited in 2001, the photographer hitchhiked for two years across the U.S., photographing the people who picked him up. The series was praised for its authenticity, spontaneity and intimacy with its subjects. In 2003, he came out with ‘Shenandoah’ (a forest in Virginia) which explored the U.S countryside and its relationship with local campers. “It was a real look into how far Americans venture into the wilderness,” adds Giles.

The seasons dictate whether an image will have warm vibrant hues or contrasty black-and-white ones. “The perspective is created by the camera movement and the colours are created by the different seasons and light,” explains Giles. Photographs are even taken from cracks in the barn wall that are a quarter of an inch wide. Exterior

“I will be experimenting more with nature and venturing forth from America,” says the photographer in response to a question about his plans for the future. “Art is a form of expression, it’s not a formula. I can’t be formulated or stick specifically to one thing. To me photography is an expression, and that can only come from within.”

once upon a time... Text: Rhonda Palmerâ&#x20AC;&#x192; Portrait: Joyce Tenneson

Internationally acclaimed author Gay Talese never lets technology get in the way of finding a great story.

he curse of modern technology is that it connects us, and that it isolates us. Nowhere is this more obvious than in journalism where writer-subject interaction is regularly reduced to ten-minute phone interviews, half a dozen email questions, or a 140-character Twitter conversation that not only saves time, but also lets a writer get on with a story without the complication of getting socially involved with a stranger. Well, Gay Talese is having none of that. Although he does have an email account and a website hosted by his publisher (http://www.randomhouse.com/kvpa/talese/), he is a rare public figure totally absent of his own accord from the instant worlds of Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and mobile devices – he does not even have a cell phone. Instead, the legendary 80-year old New York writer and author Talese has made his living, built his reputation and garnered the vital substance of all of his uniquely styled, impeccably researched stories through building and fostering old fashioned face-to-face relationships. “You have to be there to get the story and you have to be stubborn,” he says explaining his modus operandum. “You then have to empathise, gain people’s trust and get a foot in the door. You need to be able to see their faces and how they are reacting.” Over and over again, Talese has used the slow-build, personal approach to create a story narrative that most other people would not have either the patience or the skill to achieve. This is clearly evident in his most famous piece ‘Frank Sinatra Has a Cold’ published in Esquire magazine in 1965 and quoted to journalism students everywhere. It’s also there in his best-selling story of a Mafia family entitled ‘Honor Thy Father’, and again, in perhaps his most spectacular get - given that he arrived in a strange country and was working basically from scratch in his piece on Chinese female soccer player, Liu Ying, whose story he included in his 2006 book, ‘A Writer’s Life’. “I just happened to have the TV on one day and saw her miss a penalty kick in the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup final causing China to lose to the US and got to wondering about how she was treated by her teammates and by her friends when she got back home, or if her parents would be ashamed of her,” Talese recalls. “When I saw this little Chinese girl living through a dark moment, I wanted to talk to her about how she felt because I thought it would make a good story.” Talese was based in New York and Liu was somewhere in China. The author had never been there, but had a few friends in Hong Kong at Time magazine, so he hopped on a plane and went after the story. He landed in Hong Kong, where despite warnings of an impossible language barrier and a general wariness of foreigners in the Mainland, he collected a two-week tourist visa for China and headed to Beijing.

After the first two weeks, Talese went back to Hong Kong to obtain another two-week permit. This became a routine and ultimately he spent a total of five months in China, commuting to Hong Kong for a visa renewal every couple of weeks. On his first trip, a cold call to a sporting goods company had produced an English-speaking Chinese advisor and amateur translator to spend time with, which in the weeks that followed, enabled Talese to communicate with government departments, which led to a familiarisation lunch with government officials, and which later enabled the opportunity to convey an official request to the Sports Ministry, seeking access to Liu. It’s a clear illustration of his gift for socialising that a Westerner was able to quickly increase his circle of Chinese “hanging out” partners to the point where his Beijing contacts ranged in status from salary men to high level government officials. As he nurtured their friendship and fostered their trust, they helped him move closer and closer to his interview target. At one lunch with key members of the Sports Ministry, Talese told them that he saw the soccer girl’s story as representative of China. “I said that the country had achieved many great things, and although occasionally there was a misstep, like her, they kept moving forward. “The Ministry of Sport people liked my story so they said I should send them an official request and they would help arrange for me to meet her. And they did. However, when we met, she didn’t speak English and I spoke no Chinese so they had a government official there to translate, but she was quiet and kind of nervous and didn’t say much.” At that point many journalists would have cut their losses, cobbled a story together from what they had and headed home, however Talese was not finished and over the coming weeks he looked at ways to build the story. “I cultivated the family to trust me,” he says explaining that he made contact with Liu’s brother and mother and ultimately her whole family including her grandparents who lived all together in a downtown Beijing Hutong. He also started spending time with the Chinese soccer team and even went to Australia with them to watch their games at the Sydney Olympics. Ultimately, with input from Liu’s family and wider circle of friends and associates, Talese completed a multi-faceted tale of aspiration, triumph, loss, failure and redemption that no magazine wanted at the time and which remained unpublished until it featured prominently in his 2006 memoir, ‘A Writer’s Tale’. Talese followed Liu’s career for a while, however he and Liu last saw each other eight or nine years ago, at which time she was still single and teaching soccer at a high school, which the author says makes him happy. After all his fears for her future when she slipped up at the World Cup, Liu had ended up with the opportunity to pass her knowledge to the next generation. “That’s a worthy profession,” he says.

legendary johnson Text: Ann Tsang

Beverly Johnson is not a fearful woman, she knows what she wants out of life, and she takes it. From a very young age she decided she needed to help with her familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s income and so went on to become a model. In her early career, Johnson was given the honour of having her face on the cover of American Vogue, the most prestigious magazine in the world. That alone would be an accomplishment for any model, but the year was 1974 and Johnson was the first African-American woman to ever be featured on the cover of the magazine.

rom the moment she was featured as the first African-American woman to appear on the cover of American Vogue, Beverly Johnson would never again be just a model, she had become legendary. A part of the newly-formed division, ‘Legends’, at New York’s Trump Models, her recent placement there could not be more suited. At a time in which everyone is a supermodel, to be recognised as a legend is quite distinguishing, even more so, because Johnson is from an era in when the term “supermodel” wasn’t even invented. The legendary Beverly Johnson continues to remain in the spotlight today. This year she launched a reality TV show on Oprah Winfrey’s network, OWN, and she has embarked on another new endeavour in the world of cosmetics in a partnership with Target. The first ever “modelpreneur” is still going strong. After more than 40 years actively working in the entertainment industry, Johnson’s career has produced more than 500 magazine covers, advertising campaigns, beauty contracts, runway shows, two books, movies, TV shows, and an extensive list of charity work. ‘Beverly’s Full House’ is not just the title of her television series, but a description of what her life has become; a life full of great accomplishments and happiness. Johnson talks to The Peninsula about her full life. The Peninsula: What drove you to do this docu-series on OWN? Beverly Johnson: It was the perfect opportunity to have my daughter, who I will always love, my new son-in-law, who is the son I always wanted, and also my first grand child around me. My daughter loves reality shows, so she persuaded me to do it and then I pitched it to Oprah. It was a great way to get closer to my daughter and work on our relationship. TP: How is it having cameras around all the time? Are there ever moments when it becomes too much to deal with? BJ: Well, of course it took some adjusting to at first because I didn’t really know how intense it was and I didn’t realise that there were going to be 20 to 25 people in my home every day. I don’t know what I was thinking. But also because it is a constructive reality TV show; it wasn’t about shooting indiscriminately, and the purpose of the show was to build a stronger bond with my daughter and to document me building my company. After a while, since we had a specific objective, it was much easier to manage. TP: Do you manage the crew? BJ: No, there is no coordination, they are there from sun up to sun down, and sometimes even longer than that. We are in a reality show, so we just go about our normal activities and take the camera crew with us when we go to fashion shoots and do everything else in our daily lives. TP: Looking back on your career, you have been in film and television, you’ve done runway, advertising, and all sorts of other things. What are the mediums that you worked in that excite you the most? What makes your heart beat faster? BJ: Today digital media is something that really interests me, I think it’s a frontier that is very exciting, I love the podcasts, the streaming web, I read blogs, I tweet via @BeverlyJohnson1, I Facebook. It’s all about sharing your feelings with people and making connections. I really believe that the Internet has made us able to connect with each other like we never have before.

TP: Because you were the first African-American woman on the cover of Vogue, people look up to you and you seem to be a huge role model to women in general. Do you think there is a message that has manifested through your career? Did you ever aim to pass on this message that you can do whatever you want and succeed? BJ: I really believe that I am living my life and fulfilling my dreams, and if I can inspire and be a role model to other people it’s great, but I am basically just an open book. In the 1970’s and 80’s I told people what was going on in my life and career, and now I can share that again on television. TP: You are a major fashion and beauty icon and you have transformed that into very smart business decisions. When you were at the top of your modelling career years ago, did you already have the idea of working towards these other projects or did they come to you more recently? BJ: They were always there, and I got into the business because I wanted to help out my family financially and was able to do that. I was also able to open up a whole world of fashion, beauty and the arts, which I have grown to love, and I also have the luxury of becoming an expert just from being in the business for so long. It’s something that I wanted to share with other people - my knowledge, experience and my career. These are things that I have always wanted to share with everyone. TP: Can you point out a moment in your career when you could say, “This is it, now I have everything I could have asked for and I am happy”? BJ: Well, I would say, career wise, I knew that being the first African-American woman on the cover of Vogue was something that nobody would ever be able to take away from me because I was the first and Vogue was and still is such an important publication, not only in terms of fashion but also the culture of America. So I always said that if I never got to do anything else, I have achieved a huge accomplishment. That was right at the beginning of my career, so it was all uphill from there. TP: When you went to shoot the editorial, did you know it was going to be a cover? BJ: No, I didn’t know it was going to be a cover. In those days you never knew at the time that you were shooting a cover until you saw yourself on the news stand! I knew it was a big deal, and it still is a major achievement to be on the cover of Vogue, but I didn’t know what what it meant to be the first African-American woman on that cover, and what it meant for other African-American people around the world. I wasn’t prepared for that kind of attention to be thrust upon me at such a young age, but it gave me a purpose and a road map of where I should go and how I should acknowledge that achievement. TP: You have done extensive work with AIDS organisations and many other charities. How important is this for you? BJ: I did a lot of work with AIDS and AMFAR in the 80‘s when it was still tabu. I am still affiliated with various AIDS organisations and always will be. That’s when you really get to step out of yourself and lend your celebrity to others. I am a global spokesperson for Down’s Syndrome, as my niece has the condition. I am also involved with a center that works with abused children. TP: Should we expect a second season of ‘Beverly’s Full House’? BJ: Oh, I don’t know yet, it’s too early to tell. I do know that it is the second biggest hit on the network and we have had a great feedback so we are very hopeful.

in the raw

Text: Gabriel Ruas Santos-Rocha Images: Fadil Berisha

Picture yourself walking into an amusement park and jumping onto a rollercoaster. Well, hold onto the bar, because the story of Carol Alt is just like that rollercoaster – she’s exciting, fun, and has had a fascinating and diverse series of adventures in her career and in life. Gabriel Ruas Santos-Rocha speaks to one of the world’s most prolific supermodels over the last three decades about her career, how her diet changed her life, and her most recent projects.

hen news broke that supermodel/actress Carol Alt was about to launch another of her raw dieting books, ‘Easy Sexy Raw’ I remember thinking, “Oh no, here we go, yet another diet book from a celebrity!”. I also remember thinking that Alt looked pretty fabulous during our last encounter a couple of weeks prior to that. I was left curious by the premise of her book and the fact that this was one of many in a line of best-selling books about the same subject - living a lifestyle that incorporates raw foods to improve the quality of life.

headaches, stomach issues and the most painful sinus infections? This was her opportunity to turn the tables. Alt prayed as hard as she could for enlightenment, and so it came. When talking to a friend about the recent events, she was given the suggestion to look for a specific doctor that had helped one of their other friends to treat cancer. The results came on the first day of Alt adopting a new lifestyle, and from that moment on, she felt the need to be more vocal about it and tell the world about the wonders that such a simple change had brought upon her.

It’s only natural to pay attention when one hear that a certain book is a best-seller, but after three hits in a series, you must pay closer attention. And so I did. Alt’s books are not simply diets, like the Atkins or the South Beach, they truly are a way of living that has worked for hundreds of thousands of people around the globe who have found in Alt their biggest supporter and spokesperson. Having followed this intriguing principle of only eating raw foods for nearly 20 years, Alt’s excitement when talking about her books and her health is not for nothing. After being sent back home by a director in the midst of shooting her TV special ‘Carol Alt & Friends’ at the age of 34 because her body wasn’t in swimsuit condition, this former Sports Illustrated supermodel, known internationally for her beauty and sculptural body was shocked. How could the star of the show have let go of herself like that?

The idea for the raw food books was picked up by Random House “in a snap of the fingers”, as Alt says, and the rest is best-selling history. The success of the books led her to try and break new boundaries. After extensive research to find beauty products that did not have any chemicals in their composition, she was somewhat surprised to discover that such products virtually did not exist. Following years of research and development with her team, they came up with the first ever beauty line that is also raw and 100 percents natural: ‘Raw Essentials by Carol Alt’.

At that moment, Alt realised that there was something horribly wrong. How was it possible that in less than 10 years her body and health had deteriorated so dramatically? How was it possible that a 34 year-old woman could be constantly catching colds, having

To prove her point, the model/actress explains that “the company that did before and after tests said they were the best results they had ever seen, natural, organic or otherwise.” Not only were the results phenomenal, but so is the price. “We wanted to offer a product of very high quality and very low cost. No-one else does that,” notes Alt. “I could sell these products for US$80 each, but I wanted them to be accessible to everyone, not just the elite. I hardly make any profit, and part of it also goes into cancer research.”

Alt proves to be deserving of her supermodel title as she continues to work as hard and as much as she did in the early 80’s. The creation of this title however is surrounded by controversy. Eileen Ford, then owner of Ford Models has claimed that she used to call her models ‘supermodels’ around the office. Janice Dickinson, a fellow supermodel, also claims to have created the title to describe herself. Yet, most of the media claims that Carol Alt was the first supermodel, and she has an idea why that is. “It was only a working title. My then agency [Elite Models] started using it after I had a meeting with John [Casablancas, then owner of Elite] to explain that it was impossible to work when we were getting several calls a day from our bookers. I was really afraid that the clients might get irritated and not book me again. This was a time when I was working up to three jobs a day, seven days a week without ever taking a break. Clients had to book us up to six months in advance so John then decided to create a ‘Super Elite Division’ in which each of these highly in demand girls would have their own booker and would only receive calls from that one person, therefore keeping things more organised. This division had much more well-known girls than me, like Kim Alexis or Kelly Emberg, but I suppose that as I was the first one in, the media picked up on it.” Whether she was the first supermodel or not doesn’t seem to bother Alt at all. She is extremely humble about her career and speaks of her accomplishments with profound passion. Her latest given title is ‘Legend’, bestowed upon her by her current agency, Trump Models, in New York. The newly created ‘Legends Division’ represents working models that have had extensive careers, including the legendary Carmen Dell’Orefice, now in her eighties and Beverly Johnson, a name that will forever be remembered as the first African-American woman to appear on the cover of American Vogue. Carol Alt is a legend not only because she was allegedly the first supermodel, but because her career in the film, music, TV and literary industries have all been successful and filled with accolades. Her recognition as an actress in the United States, her home country, may not be as huge as it is in Europe, but the plethora of awards that fills the shelves in Alt’s New York home are testament to her success. Alt’s first acting role was on Broadway in Bob Fosse’s ‘Sweet Charity’, a job that made her realise just how much she needed to learn the craft of acting. This was at a time when models did not

become actresses and actresses did not feature in TV commercials or advertising jobs, so to make such a transition would require a great deal of training and talent. Alt hired a coach and worked hard from day one. Her first movie, ‘Via Montenapoleone’, was such a huge hit in Europe that it was later turned into a television series. Since then she has had roles in more than 50 films and is ready for the release of her latest project, with none other than Woody Allen. His new feature entitled ‘To Rome with Love’ takes audiences back to the good old Allen style, evident in films like ‘Manhattan’ and ‘Everyone Says I Love You’. Alt had hoped for a bigger and more established acting career in the United States, but by the time she became a star in Europe, the 90’s had arrived, and with that a whole new slew of supermodels, who were being offered parts in movies without even wanting to pursue a career in acting. Needless to say, these models were unprepared to deliver serious performances and by the time Alt returned to her native country and hit Hollywood, the film community was fed up with models who wanted to be in movies. Not one to rest on her laurels, Alt took advantage of her status and went on to do work with several charitable organisations and more recently founded the cause that lives in the core of her heart: TAMFI, the Tony Alt Memorial Foundation. “My brother passed away in 2005, and nobody knows why, he just dropped to the floor and died. His workers loved him, and that is such a testament to who my brother was. They didn’t want his spirit to die so they started the Foundation to raise money for children’s charities. And then there is also a jewellery line launched in partnership with Sears. The butterfly motif designed by Alt, is meant to symbolise transformation, because she claims to have been transformed since she started her raw living. With a green gem in the back, Alt hopes she will be able to bring healing energy to whoever purchases the items. The profits, needless to say, also go to charity. Does this supermodel turned legend ever get tired? “Well, sometimes I do, but I still try to do things that I am passionate about. I keep going because I enjoy what I am doing and the moment I stop enjoying it, I will stop doing it. But in the meantime, I will continue to do my best. I can do my little bit, and for me it is all about health and conveying that to other people.” Could the message be any clearer? I don’t think so...

ÂŠ Barneys New York

the glamorous life Text: Dervla Louli

Portrait by Albert Sanchez

fter moving to London in 1973, Simon Doonan ended up putting stuffed rats in a Savile Row window display and earned instant notoriety and a job offer from the prestigious Maxfield boutique in Beverly Hills. His career path led him through the Met Costume Institute in Los Angeles, and then onto Barneys New York where he has remained ever since. He is a window dresser by trade but has added many strings to his bow since he joined Barneys in 1986. He writes about many things, and his dry witty humour has certainly struck a chord with Americans. With several best-selling books on the subject of style under his belt, the newly appointed Creative Ambassador-at-Large at Barneys speaks to The Peninsula about his eccentricity, living in New York and his new role. The Peninsula: The musings on your website are extremely witty and feature that dry sense of humour that can only be found in Britain. Do you miss the UK or do you feel at home in New York? Simon Doonan: I still love to watch Fawlty Towers and Monty Python on You Tube. But I have lived in the US for most of my life so my humour is a combo platter. TP: You have many strings to your bow. How do you juggle the demands of working at Barneys, writing autobiographies and diet books and sharing your daily musings with your fans, all at the same time? SD: I am ridiculously organised...and I don't stay out late drinking cocktails.

TP: On your website it says that a major milestone was meeting the love of your life Jonathan. Had you believed true love existed before that point and was it an immediate realisation when you two first met? SD: I love Jonny and we are very lucky to have found each other, but we are not very sentimental. At the end of the day we are still just a couple of dudes. TP: You are not afraid to be different and it is this attitude that allowed you to think out of the box and become so successful in your life and career. Was this instilled into you from a young age from your parents, or was there a pivotal point in your life where you just knew that you wanted to do it your way? SD: My parents were very unconventional. It was hard to shock them. But that didn’t not stop me from trying repeatedly! TP: Do you find travelling to new places inspires you or do most of your ideas come from England and the US? SD: I love to travel in the US. Seattle, Dallas, San Francisco, Phoenix, Las Vegas...They are all great cities and they all have Barneys stores, so I go regularly. I am dying to go to China, but it is so huge I barley know where to start.

TP: Can you share the story behind the Liberty floral shirts that have become your signature style? SD: Back in the mid 60's all the groovy boys like Mick Jagger, Ray Davies and Jeff Beck wore flowery shirts. I’m always trying to recapture those swinging, fabulous, flowery moments. TP: You are fearless in your window displays, most notably with the 1989 ‘Iron Maiden’. Where does your fearlessness come from and what is your favourite window display that you have created? SD: My main goal has always been to titillate and amuse. I would much rather make people laugh than shock them. TP: Your new title at Barneys is Creative Ambassador-at-Large, which entails you being the face of the company. How do you like it so far and do you miss having a hands-on-approach to the window dressing? SD: I dressed windows for almost 40 years, so it was time to put down the glue-gun. I love my new role. Our new CEO Mark Lee and his incredible team have become my new family.

TP: Apart from Barneys, what other store window displays do you most admire? SD: I love to check out thrift shop windows. They use funny looking old mannequins with ratty wigs. I have thousands of pictures I have taken over the years, but If I have to mention a luxury retailer, I would say Louis Vuitton. The windows over the last couple of years have been brilliant! TP: What do you do to stay fresh and driven? SD: In New York City you are constantly meeting new creative glamazons and eccentrics. This keeps me motivated and excited. TP: How do you think bloggers are changing fashion? SD: I think bloggers are playing a significant part in creating a new fashion landscape. However, the designers are still playing a more important role. And the most important role is played by the customers and bless those who pay full price!

TP: Do you think that your networking skills and slick sense of humour were key to your success at breaking the New York fashion scene? What is your opinion of the phrase “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know” that is so often bandied about by jobseekers? SD: New York has always attracted eccentric, creative crazy people. Networking requires very little effort. I have always felt like I am among kindred spirits.

Black silk crepe gown with beaded slash by Emilio Pucci; necklace by Swarovski Crystallized

new york state of mind Photography: Hyuna Shinâ&#x20AC;&#x192; Stylist: David Widjaja Makeup: Sung Hee Park@Jermain NYC Hairstyling: Takahide Tokuyama for Tokuyama Salon Model: Marta Morilla@Q Photography Assistant: Eric Reichbaum Styling Assistant: Anthony Gomez

Black crepe cut out gown with lame bodice by Reem Acra;Â necklace and cuff by Swarovski Crystallized

Black and white printed silk taffeta gown and silk satin belt by Carolina Herrera; necklace by Swarovski Crystallized and cuff by Atelier Swarovski

Orange beaded silk tulle dress, black tuxedo shorts, hat, necklaces and gloves by Giorgio Armani

Black beaded tulle shirt by Valentino; viscose pleated skirt and bow belt by Donna Karan; earrings by Tom Binns; boots by Christian Louboutin

Green silk beaded dress by Oscar De La Renta, hat by Giorgio Armani

Black beaded crepe top, orange beaded crepe wrap skirt, camera bag and shoes by Prada; cuff by Tom Binns

Silver chain mail bustier gown by Versace, cuff on left arm by Atelier Swarovski; cuff on right arm by Tom Binns

Maroon silk crepe gown with ruffle trim and velvet belt by Gucci; necklace by Tom Binns; boots by Tom Ford

Portrait by Aaron Cobbett

Ensembles from the DANDYISM section of the exhibition Daphne Guinness at The Museum at FIT. Photograph courtesy The Museum at FIT.

fashion forward Interview: Dervla Louli Images: Courtesy of The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology

Dr. Valerie Steele is Director and Chief Curator of The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. She has curated more than 20 exhibitions in the past decade, including Gothic: Dark Glamour; Love & War: The Weaponised Woman; The Corset: Fashioning the Body; London Fashion; and Femme Fatale: Fashion in Fin-deSiĂ¨cle Paris, to name but a few.

Ensembles from the EXOTICISM section of the exhibition Daphne Guinness at The Museum at FIT. Photograph courtesy The Museum at FIT.

veritable visionary in the world of fashion, Dr. Valerie Steele was appointed Director of the Museum at New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology in 2003 and since then she has curated more than 20 highly-attended exhibitions. She is also Editor-in-Chief of ‘Fashion Theory: The Journal of Dress, Body & Culture’ (Berg Publishers), which she founded in 1997, as well as being the author of numerous books on her favourite subject.

VS: Japan has been a fashion-positive country for 1,000 years! So there are obviously myriad cultural reasons why they are so GOOD at doing fashion. Partly it has to do with an emphasis on aesthetics that pervades the culture, partly an emphasis on novelty and change that may have Buddhist roots. Also, the circumstances under which western fashion were introduced to Japan and the split between Japanese and Western clothes must have had a big impact.

Following her appearance on the PBS special, ‘The Way We Wear’, Steele was described by The Washington Post as being one of “fashion’s brainiest women” and she has also been listed in the New York Daily News ‘Fashion’s 50 Most Powerful’.

TP: The fashion industry and those who work in it have a reputation for being cold, aloof and pretentious. Your personality seems warm and welcoming; it’s refreshing to see this in the industry. When you first started out curating for the F.I.T were you ever intimidated by all of the clichés that surround the industry? From your work with designers, do you think that this cliché is wrongly attributed to them? VS: The fashion world is not all mean, skinny girls and egomaniac designers. There are lots of sensitive, intelligent people, too. I have been intimidated by some people because I so admired their talent – like Alexander McQueen. But when I spoke to him, I realised that he was nervous and shy too.

Dr. Steele is currently preparing to release a new book entitled ‘Fashion Designers, A-Z’ which will profile 100 of the most important designers of the last century and feature 500 outstanding pieces from the 50,000 items of clothing and accessories in the F.I.T. Museum collection. The Peninsula speaks to Dr. Steele about her work to date, her opinions on today’s fashion world, and how technology is influencing the industry. The Peninsula: What is your favorite exhibition you have curated to date? Valerie Steele: Probably Gothic: Dark Glamour. I also loved Daphne Guinness and The Corset – and I’m very excited about my forthcoming show, Queer Style. TP: Japan Fashion Now was also a notable exhibition. Japan is known for its both eccentric and exquisite taste in fashion. People get dressed to get their outfits posted onto blogs and fashion websites. In your opinion, what gives them such a unique approach to fashion? What is it about the history of Japan that you feel has shaped people’s approach to what they wear?

TP: You once said in an interview that dressing up was not just a grown-up domain, which you spotted in a book on 14th Century Italian fashion. This seems to be ever more increasingly true every day. What is your view on fast fashion, a phenomenon that has allowed young people to get replicas from the catwalk at relatively low prices? VS: I feel ambivalent about fast fashion. It is democratising, yes, but also levelling. The old punk DIY ethos seems more creative, but fast fashion is a big force today.

Installation view of the exhibition Daphne Guinness at The Museum at FIT. Photograph courtesy The Museum at FIT.

Four Cosplay ensembles. Photograph © The Museum at FIT, New York.

TP: What was the first piece of clothing that you sourced or collected for yourself, and for the Museum? VS: I don’t remember the first! I have acquired a lot of great things for the Museum – most recently we acquired a pair of Iris van Herpen shoes (she did the Armadillo shoes for McQueen) that I saw on eBay. When I was younger, I found many of my clothes at thrift stores. TP: Technology is moving faster and faster every day. It is a trend which you appear to have embraced allowing collections to be viewed on the F.I.T website, and you also have a blog. How has technology changed the way you work and put together exhibits? VS: We do a special website for every exhibition. The Gothic website was especially cool, and the one for Queer Style will be awesome. My colleague, Tamsen Schwartzman, does our websites and also the Museum’s Facebook and Twitter accounts. I’m also becoming more interested in fashion films now. I love SHOWstudio! TP: You mentioned that Rick Owens mixes Parisian Haute Couture with LA rock star influences. What is it about Parisians and the city of Paris that gives them that effortless elegant vibe? VS: Paris has been the capital of (women’s) fashion for 400 years. It provides the best platform to show collections and many of the best designers from around the world decide to show there.

TP: Women were freed of corsets and rules of dressing in the 1920’s and 30’s. People often comment that fashion is cyclical like history. Do you think that this is true especially given that corsets have once again became popular after women were “freed” from them? VS: Women never really gave up corsets, they just internalised them through diet and exercise, and now also plastic surgery. Corsets come back into fashion every few years, mostly as an eroticising device – in contrast to things like Spanx which just push the fat around. TP: Robert Storr once said: “What curators do, is to use their information and sensibility to consider as wide a range of work as possible, and then put forward the things they find interesting. It’s dangerous when curators stop following their instincts and begin to think primarily in terms of their official status; on the one hand you can become overcautious, on the other you can end up fighting good causes that aren’t necessarily close to your heart or experience.” How do you decide what areas of fashion to champion and has there been any ideas that you haven’t been able to manifest because they didn’t fit in within the constraints of your job description? VS: I have been lucky in being able to pursue the kind of exhibitions that fascinate me – often on topics that have a dark and sexy edge. I prefer thematic exhibitions to single designer retrospectives. TP: Has the recession affected the work of the F.I.T Museum in the sense that donations may be smaller or that pieces of couture are more economical to purchase than they were before? VS: When the recession hit, we suffered a decline in donations, but now we’re back up. Couture is more expensive than ever, I’m afraid!

Dresses and shoes from the ARMOR section of the exhibition Daphne Guinness at The Museum at FIT. Photograph courtesy The Museum at FIT.

pioneering an industry Text: Gabriel Ruas Santos-Rocha

In fashion there is much talk about the legacy left by designers, photographers and magazines, but not many people look at a vital piece of the industry that connects all the dots: the modelling agency. Eileen and Jerry Ford were pioneers and founders of the Ford Model Agency, now simply known as Ford Models. One of the most established and recognisable brands in the world with offices spread throughout the continents, Ford is the oldest and longest running modelling agency in the world, a true landmark of the fashion industry. For many people, the names Eileen and Jerry Ford may not mean much, but in the world of fashion, they are synonymous with royalty.

ileen Otte met Gerard W. Ford in 1944 outside a drugstore near Columbia University, where he attended school as part of his service with the United States Navy. The couple fell in love and got married later that same year in San Francisco while Gerard, also simply known as Jerry, awaited to be shipped out to sea for the World War II.

on to become the highest paid model in the industry and earned the nickname of the ‘Dollar a Minute Girl’, making an average US$60 an hour. Following her modelling success, Dovima was given a speaking role in the 1957 movie ‘Funny Face’. She showed great comedic talent and her part in that movie opened the doors to other models to also develop careers in the movie industry.

With Jerry’s departure, Eileen returned to New York where she started working as a secretary for a photographer, as well as a stylist and a fashion reporter for the Tobe Report. While working in the photography studio, Mrs. Ford would constantly meet models and from those relationships, soon enough, she also started working as a secretary to some of those girls who felt their agencies weren't efficient enough in taking care of their bookings. Having their own secretary would guarantee that their clients would get the attention they needed and the girls wouldn't lose any jobs to other models.

By 1974, The Fords were at the top of their game and had no competition. They had invented the contract for models, whereby they would exclusively represent a specific brand, securing higher fees and better exposure. Jean Shrimpton's contract with Yardley was the first and Lauren Hutton and Evelyn Kuhn were the first models to have exclusive contracts with Revlon, which then became one of the most sought after contracts in the industry.

Upon Jerry’s return from the War, he resumed his studies at Columbia University in Business Administration, while Eileen continued to work for the models out of her father's apartment. As the business grew, she and Jerry came to the conclusion it was time to expand business and make a more serious investment towards it. The Fords then sold their car and moved their business into a location at 949 Second Avenue in Manhattan, above a woodwork shop. At this point, Eileen was about to give birth to her first daughter Jamie, which is when Jerry decided to step in to help. What was supposed to be a temporary situation ended up becoming a passion for him too. With a great reputation for honesty and efficiency, the Fords attracted a high volume of models and guaranteed the return of a huge clientele. There was no such thing as delayed payments and missed calls with the Fords, and the couple managed to become one of the three most successful agencies in the country, grossing an average US$250,000 a year. Threatened to be put out of business by their main competitor, the agency Huntington Hartford, who said they would implement a weekly payment system through the use of vouchers, an innovation at the time, Jerry and Eileen made yet another investment and pulled some money together to quickly implement the system within their own agency. Representing talent such as Jean Patchett, considered by Eileen to be the best model she had ever seen, the couple's careful management skills attracted the attention of the iconic model Dorian Leigh, who by then also owned her own agency and was dissatisfied by the management her younger sister, Suzy Parker, was getting from her managers at Huntington Hartford. In a smart move, the Fords signed on a pregnant Dorian Leigh and her young sister Suzy, without having even met the girl. Suzy was the opposite of her sister. Tall and red-haired, she was different from any other girl in the industry, and went on to become the most recognisable model of the 1950’s, becoming the first model to achieve superstar status, headlining fashion magazines and appearing in Hollywood films. Suzy Parker was a sensation and one of Ford’s biggest triumphs. The agency had become the biggest in the world. Working closely with Leigh’s agency in Paris, Ford formed a successful network that guaranteed rewarding careers to the models it represented. With a keen eye for innovation, the Fords never limited themselves or their models. Dovima, one of the most iconic models of all time, went

With names like Candice Bergen, Ali MacGraw, Jerry Hall, Christie Brinkley and Rene Russo on their roster, Ford was unbeatable and was billing an average of US$100,000 per week. Even after the opening of the French powerhouse Elite Models office in New York, the Fords remained strong and ahead of the game. The Ford business remained strong and innovative. Always together, Eileen and Jerry continued to pull through with passion and belief in what they were building. In 1995, after 50 years in charge of the business, Eileen and Jerry stepped out into the spotlight for one last time to celebrate their agency’s 50th Anniversary and allow for its empire to then be led by their daughter Katie. Eileen and Jerry remained married, successful in business and in their personal life, with a family that includes four children, eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. In a recent phone conversation, Eileen told me she turned 90 years old in March of this year and was excited about celebrating this iconic date with a lunch organised by her children. Jerry however wasn’t there to celebrate, as he passed away at the age of 83 on August 24th, 2008 leaving behind a loving wife and a legacy that will be remembered for a long time to come. Their work together in fashion was a labour of love that broke boundaries and revolutionised an entire industry. They established work ethics that are still followed by most agencies around the world and they set the bar extremely high for everyone that followed them. The Fords brought the “family” into the expression “family business” in aspects never before seen in the fashion industry, from housing some of their models in their own homes to making sure that their models were cared for in every way. They gave their talent every tool they needed to succeed, from financial to emotional support, and it wasn’t just about the profit, but mostly about the relationships created within the agency. Today, Ford Models is no longer in the hands of the Ford family, but it still remains one of the biggest and most powerful agencies in the industry representing established names like Emma Balfour, Ana Claudia Michels, Rose Cordero, Karmen Pedaru and Sigrid Agren; as well as rising new talent like Tao, Julia Nobis and Kate King. The interesting part however, is to think that some of this young talent represented by Ford Models walks those hallways completely unaware of the history behind them; that this multi-million dollar business once started in a small office on Second Avenue and was solely responsible for setting an entire industry in motion.

a stylish solution Text: Rhonda Palmer Image: Russell Christopher

Elite wedding stylist Julie Sabatino and The Peninsula New York have teamed up to help brides conduct a stress-free search for the dress of their dreams.

odern weddings are not for the faint-hearted. In fact, one recent survey reports that these days, nearly 50 percent of brides experience stress brought on by wedding planning and nearly one in three elects for specialist advisors or hands-on help from a professional planner or stylist. One of New York’s leading wedding stylists, Julie Sabatino, whose company The Stylish Bride, has partnered with The Peninsula New York for the ‘Dress Shopping with The Stylish Bride’ package that provides a bespoke, high-end, luxury bridal fashion styling service, is not surprised by the figures. “I got into this business because of the experience I had with my own wedding 10 years ago, trying to find the perfect gown to wear,” says Sabatino, who has styled some of America’s most high-profile and best-known celebrity brides since founding her business in 2003. “Everyone had an opinion my Mother wanted one thing, I wanted another, other friends had opinions….it was quite an ordeal!” These days, Sabatino takes over the hard work on behalf of her clients, combining her knowledge of bridal fashion and trends with her resources list of suppliers and service providers to produce each bride’s dream wedding wardrobe. She focuses exclusively on coordinating personally selected attire for high-end wedding parties, and in addition to working with the bride to select the gown for the main event, she also works with her to develop a coordinated colour palette for all members of the bridal party, including bridesmaids, groomsmen, pages and the bride and groom’s parents. “Often we’re looking at four to five days of events, so I will develop a cohesive style, preparing outfits for all of them, for each of the events” says Sabatino.

On the accessories front, Sabatino notes that it has been a long time since she has seen a bride wearing a necklace, because the current vogue is for big, chandelier-style, drop earrings that dominate the head and neck area, negating the need for a necklace. To finish the lavish look, the bride’s extremities are also highlighted with jewellery cuffs and sparkly or coloured shoes. Brides who choose the newly launched Peninsula New York ‘Dress Shopping with The Stylish Bride’ package will experience a specially tailored wedding dress shopping experience with Sabatino, complete with luxurious, indulgent extras. The package includes accommodation at The Peninsula New York, a Bridal Shopping Tote by The Stylish Bride containing a bridal gown search “survival kit” with a bathrobe and slipper set, a long-line corset in the bride’s size to wear for fittings, a folder for tear-sheets, hand sanitiser, hair ties, snacks and water, plus a personally-guided tour by private car to a customised itinerary of New York City’s top bridal salons and designer studios. “New York is the bridal fashion capital of the world with the largest selection of stores, designers and dresses anywhere,” Sabatino says. “It’s an amazing place to come to find the perfect wedding dress, but if you don’t have someone to guide you, it can be an incredibly overwhelming experience. The package that we have created with The Peninsula is the perfect solution for the bride who wants to experience the very best that New York has to offer.”

While the traditional wedding colour is white and the strapless floor length column has dominated the industry for the past decade or so, Sabatino has noted some new trends. “Colours like blue, purple and green have been creeping into wedding dress design for a few years now; however this year I’ve seen a lot of pink at bridal runway shows and in fact, I have my first pink wedding next week, with the bride wearing a blush gown.”

Stores that are visited include many of New York’s premier bridal outlets - Vera Wang, Mark Ingram’s Bridal Atelier, Gabriella New York, Carolina Herrera and Bergdorf Goodman – each a long-time, personal contact of Sabatino and The Stylish Bride company. At every stop the bride experiences VIP treatment, meeting people who are top wedding gown designers or store owners, dealing with a hand-selected, highly-experienced consultant at each store, inspecting an array of gowns pre-selected by Sabatino to suit the bride’s own personal style, and once the right gown is chosen, breaking open a bottle of bubbly to enjoy a celebratory champagne toast.

Sabatino says the influence of such high profile brides as Kate Middleton, who wed Prince William, the heir to the British throne, in London last year, has resulted in a spike in the popularity of illusion necklines, where a thin gauze or lacy type fabric overlays or builds upon a strapless bodice or full dress. Practicality, and perhaps economy, have also seen the rise of detachable skirts that both minimise the time it takes to change (so you don’t take time out of the reception) and makes two dresses out of one. “Reem Acra, Monique Lhuillier and Oscar de la Renta all showed detachable skirts this season and I think they’ll be very popular,” Sabatino says of some of the world’s leading bridal designers.

More than just a renowned New York wedding fashion stylist, Julie Sabatino is also considered an innovator who, since she established the niche of bridal styling in the wedding industry 10 years ago, has been featured in publications such as The New York Times, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, Glamour and New York Magazine. As her reputation has spread, Sabatino is now regularly contacted from all over the US and across the globe by brides who dream of being married in New York and are seeking her help. She works with many international clients, including recently, brides from Hong Kong, England, Scotland, and India. So if you are looking to wed in effortless style, look no further than The Stylish Bride.

a serve of history Text: Mel Bourneâ&#x20AC;&#x192; Images: Courtesy of Ignorazzi

Some of the Big Appleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most successful restaurants and bars are more than a hundred years old and still going strong...

city can change enormously over a couple of hundred years, and New York is no different. However, for all the changes that more than four centuries have wrought, there are little pockets of sameness, especially in Manhattan, where the story of New York began. There are restaurants and bars that have survived the rough and tumble of the economic climate, moved with the changing tastes of their clientele and avoided the dictates made by government in the name of progress, to have been continuously in business for more than a century. The oldest Irish bar in town is McSorley’s Ale House, which claims its founding date as 1854; although some historians say a more accurate estimate may be at least 10 years later. A basic Irish working man’s bar with swinging doors, sawdust-strewn floors, a choice of only dark ale or light ale, and the bonus of free cheese and crackers for patrons, McSorley’s functioned nicely in its niche, carefully avoiding doom during the 1920 to 1933 Prohibition alcohol ban period by selling ‘Near Beer’ instead of the dreaded real thing. After Prohibition, in the 1940s, McSorley’s fortunes rose significantly following a favourable profile by writer Joseph Mitchell in the prestigious New Yorker magazine, and in the ensuing years, the ale house became a destination for a wide assortment of New Yorkers, from members of the establishment to the avant-garde. “Presidents, residents, authors and thieves - the lot of humanity have sat and shared, all abiding by McSorley’s golden rule “Be Good or Be Gone”, boasts the bar on its website.

Over roughly a century and a half of continuous operation, McSorley's has hosted many notables, including President Abraham Lincoln, music legends John Lennon and Woody Guthrie, poet E. E. Cummings who mentioned the bar in his 1923 poem “I was sitting in McSorley’s”, as well as Brendan Behan, Paul Blackburn, LeRoi Jones, Gilbert Sorrentino and George Jean Nathan, a literary set claimed to have been McSorley “regulars”. The bar features a rail to which is attached a pair of handcuffs that are said to have once belonged to escapologist, Harry Houdini. The cuffs are still locked. Inside and out, this place is no slave to modernity with an olde worlde façade and its inside walls literally papered with clippings and miscellany. It is said that there has not been a single piece of this memorabilia removed since 1910.

It’s almost a footnote now in this modern age, but ladies were banned from McSorley’s premises for more than a hundred years. In the 1970s a pair of civil rights attorneys, Faith Seidenberg and Karen DeCrow, took to the Supreme Court to successfully overturn the legality of such a ban. Meanwhile, down on the East Side in Water Street, the Bridge Café claims to be the oldest serving tavern in New York, located in a building that was built in 1794, extended in 1888 and has housed a food or drinking establishment ever since. Its ownership has been varied, but includes a mariner and ship captain, an attorney and a housekeeper. Situated in the heart of old New York by the East River docks, the area has had a checkered history typical of waterfront dock areas, and was once the location of a busy red light district. In his 1897 book, The American Metropolis, author Frank Moss wrote of the Bridge Café’s location: “At 279 Water Street was Tom Norton’s Bagnio (brothel) filled with river pirates.” Supporting this claim is an 1879 indictment laid against the property by the District Attorney, accusing it of being a “disorderly house”. According to research by history buff Richard McDermott, publisher of The New York Chronicle for 20 years from 1902, the location housed a saloon at which point the owner leased and later sold it to the McCormack family who during Prohibition, converted the tavern to a restaurant where the main drink on the menu was “cider”. Off the menu though, trusted customers could avail themselves of beer provided by a bootlegger across the bridge in Brooklyn. After Prohibition, the Bridge Café resumed its operation as a legitimate tavern and in 1979 the building was bought by its current owners, who rejuvenated the interior restaurant and bar retaining the 1920’s style it already had and upgrading the food menu. It became one of then-Mayor Ed Koch’s favourite restaurants, according to a 1995 review in The New York Times. Meanwhile, smack-bang in the middle of Chelsea, one of Manhattan’s most vibrant areas where restaurants, nightclubs and bars proliferate, The Old Homestead Steakhouse has had the grill sizzling for more than 100 years, serving top class steak to discerning meat-eaters.

Established in 1868, The Old Homestead Steakhouse with its huge fibreglass cow above the entrance, has a locale that was once the centre of the entire City’s meat industry distribution, situated close to the waterfront in an area still known as the Meatpacking District - even though the meat workers are long gone. By the end of the ‘80s the introduction of refrigerated container freight and trucks along with the emergence of supermarkets and frozen food, changed distribution patterns throughout the US and removed the need for local processing and packing. However in the 19th Century, The Old Homestead Steakhouse’s proximity to the meat industry enabled the proprietors to build contacts with the best suppliers, an advantage that was handed down and maintained throughout the years. Operated by the Sherry family since 1957 and run today by brothers Greg and Marc Sherry, the restaurant has been renovated with one eye on history and has traditional touches included in a modern décor that features a black-and-white photographic tribute to American artists and filmmakers, by Julian Schnabel. After more than 14 decades of serving dedicated meat-eaters, Time Out New York says The Old Homestead Steakhouse still delivers: “Any way you carve it, this place stands the test of time.” The oldest Italian restaurant in town is Barbetta on 46th Street. Founded in 1906 by Sebastiano Maioglio, the eatery has remained in the family throughout its hundred-plus years and is still in their hands, being currently owned by the Founder’s daughter, Laura Maioglio. Barbetta, a Piemontese restaurant, claims a number of historic firsts including in 1906, the first to serve wild Porcini mushrooms, the first to serve risotto, the first to serve polenta and in 1911, having the first Espresso machine in a restaurant. The not-for-profit cultural association Locali Storici d’Italia, funded by Italy’s Ministry of Cultural Heritage, has named Barbetta a Locale Storico (Historic Establishment), the only restaurant in the US to have been so honoured. The award was made in recognition that Barbetta is the oldest restaurant in New York still owned by its founding family, the oldest Italian restaurant in New York, and the oldest restaurant in the Theater District. Inside the restaurant, history is honoured with a collection of 18th Century Piemontese antiques, including a huge chandelier in the main dining room, obtained by Ms. Maioglio from a Piemonte palazzo which had belonged to Italy’s royal family, the Savoys, and a rare harpsichord in the foyer, signed by Francesco Fabbri in 1631.

McSorley's Old Ale House 15 East 7th Street New York, BY 10003 T: 212 474 9148 http://www.mcsorleysnewyork.com Bridge Café 279 Water Street New York, NY 10038 T: 212 227 3344 bridgecafenyc@aol.com The Old Homestead Steakhouse 56 9th Avenue (between 14th and 15th Streets) New York, NY 10011 T: 212 242 9040 http://www.theoldhomesteadsteakhouse.com Barbetta 321 West 46th Street (Between 8th & 9th) New York, NY 10036 T: 212 246 9171 http://www.barbettarestaurant.com

Patsyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Italian Restaurant. Image courtesy of Ignorazzi

frankly speaking Text: Russell Christopher

A guy from Hoboken who conquered the Big Apple with one classic song, Frank Sinatra remains in the hearts of New Yorkers even today.

tart spreading the news. He may be long gone, but it’s highly unlikely that superstar crooner Frank Sinatra will ever be forgotten in New York City. It’s almost 15 years since Sinatra died at age 82 after a career that spanned more than six decades, however he lives on through his classic song ‘New York New York’, a 32 year-old hit that even today, resounds across the city like an anthem. It’s heard regularly in cafés and bars, on the radio, in advertisements for New York, and even at the start and the finish of every New York Yankees baseball game at the Yankee Stadium. However, it’s not just Sinatra’s velvety voice that rules the city; his presence is recorded at many of the haunts he frequented during his time in the city – most of them in midtown Manhattan. The most famous of these may be Patsy’s Italian Restaurant located at 236 West 56th Street. Established by the late Pasquale “Patsy” Scognamillo in 1944, the Neapolitan Italian restaurant was always the eatery of first choice for Sinatra and his family and some members of the family still drop by for a meal when they’re in town. Patsy is remembered by his family as greatly valuing Sinatra’s friendship, and providing much moral support during a time in the ‘70s when Sinatra’s career was in a lull; Patsy even opened his restaurant on Thanksgiving once so his pal Sinatra could have a VIP lunch. In return, when the singer got his career back on track, he remained a loyal customer of the restaurant. Patsy’s son and the restaurant’s current chef, Joe Scognamillo, have fond memories of Sinatra sometimes clowning around with customers – the superstar would don a waiter’s jacket and saunter over to a table of unsuspecting patrons, ready to take an order, or, answer the phone and identify himself to the disbelieving caller. “He was definitely one of a kind,” says Scognamillo. “The human race will never see another one like Sinatra, that’s for sure.” Ever the sucker for the ambience of a good Italian restaurant, Sinatra was also a regular at Jilly’s restaurant on 52nd Street where the owner Jilly Rizzo kept a table reserved for his friend. Strangely, old “Blue Eyes” is reported to have always ordered chow mein, which he ate with a napkin tucked in to protect his tie.

Over on West 52nd Street, the 21 Club is also full of Sinatra memories. There was the time that he brought Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis there after she had attended one of his performances at Carnegie Hall. Another time he had the venue abuzz because he was tipping everyone with $100 bills (a significant tip in 1975). When Sinatra headed for the men’s room, the bathroom attendant must have been wild with anticipation. However, once inside, Sinatra ran into his fellow diner, baseball manager Leo “The Lip” Durocher, who volunteered to tip the attendant for them both. As they left the bathroom, Durocher fossicked in his wallet and with a flourish, produced a lonely one dollar bill and in front of Sinatra, paid the tip with it. Sinatra also hung out at Toots Shor restaurant, a Manhattan hot spot in the ‘60s where one could spot an assortment of politicians, entertainers and athletes. The venue’s owner, Bernard “Toots” Shor, was also close to Sinatra. One time, Shor summoned Sinatra to the restaurant for a surprise. and when he arrived, a VIP crowd had been assembled which included three of his all time heroes - crooner Bing Crosby, ex-heavyweight boxing champion Jack Dempsey and baseball legend Babe Ruth. “When Babe Ruth walked in, I damn near wet my pants,” Sinatra told an interviewer years later. Two Sinatra performance landmarks are the Paramount Theatre on Broadway where in the 1940s, at the start of his career, the singer caused a sensation with an hysterical following of bobbysoxers screaming and swooning at his concerts, and Madison Square Garden on Seventh Avenue and West 33rd Street where he performed and recorded the material for his 1974 best-selling ‘The Main Event – Live’ album and television special. Aside from his hangouts, the City also has the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts in Queens, a high school named after the legend at the suggestion of his good friend and fellow singer Tony Bennett. The school’s mission is to “offer the opportunity for all students to achieve their fullest academic and artistic potential”. On the 10th Anniversary of Sinatra’s death in 2008, the US Postal service released a 42 cent stamp honouring the singer. The same year, the US House of Representatives voted in favour of a motion put forward by Mary Bono Mack, the widow of Cher’s ex husband and singing partner, Sonny Bono, to declare May 13th National Frank Sinatra Day.

Image courtesy of Ignorazzi

For a man who was not even born in the city (he was born in Hoboken on the New Jersey side of the Hudson on May 15th, 1998), New York City took Sinatra’s passing exceptionally hard. For three days after his death was announced, the top of the iconic Empire State Building in New York was lit by soft blue light as a mark of respect for Frank Sinatra. “It is a silent tribute to a man who has a place in a lot of New Yorkers’ hearts for his singing and his links with the city,” said an Empire State Building representative at the time. “Lighting up the building in blue is just our way of saying thanks for the memories”. Patsy’s Italian Restaurant 236 West 56th Street, Manhattan Jilly’s 256 West 52nd Street, Manhattan Toots Shor Restaurant 51 West 51st Street, Manhattan 21 Club 21 West 52nd Street, Manhattan Madison Square Garden 7th Ave & 33rd Street, Manhattan Paramount Theater 1501 Broadway, Manhattan Carnegie Hall 881 Seventh Avenue at 57th Street, Manhattan

Image by Lakshmi Harilela

Carnegie Hall. Image by Lakshmi Harilela

21 Club. Image courtesy of Ignorazzi

a model doctor Text: Rhonda Palmer Portrait: Stefan Andersson

One former beauty queen’s brave health battle resulted in the new Dubin Breast Center of The Tisch Cancer Institute at New York’s Mt Sinai Hospital where innovative, holistic attitudes are incorporated into traditional cancer treatments

t age 34, life was pretty sweet for former Miss Sweden and Ford model, Dr. Eva Andersson Dubin: married to Glen Dubin, a successful CEO/Fund Manager, and mother to one child, living a healthy and happy life as a medical practitioner in New York City. The only cloud in a very blue sky was the illness of a dear friend who Dr. Dubin was supporting in the fight against breast cancer - a situation that served to remind her of the importance of vigilance with one’s health and the necessity of routine mammograms. Still, Dr. Dubin, who regularly exercised, was not obese, never smoked and didn’t drink alcohol, had none of the risk indicators generally associated with the disease and the screenings were more perfunctory at this early stage in her life so when her own mammogram indicated breast cancer, she was stunned. “I was in total shock…when you hear it, your whole world comes crashing down around you,” Dr. Dubin recalls of the moment that she was diagnosed. “The chance of survival is there, but you just can’t think clearly and everything is a blur.” Having zig-zagged Manhattan for her friend’s treatment, Dr. Dubin now found herself following the same dark, debilitating path at the age of 34, taking herself and her medical records from one side of town to the other, then uptown, downtown, from a specialist for oncology tests, to another for pathology tests, another for diagnosis, somewhere else for surgical treatment, then elsewhere again for results and all repeated over again – a six-month cocktail of pain, grief, discomfort, overwhelming weariness, sadness, anxiety, despondency and hope – until that joyous moment when she was pronounced in remission and ultimately cancer free. Buoyed by the triumph and deeply empathetic toward those whose fight was to come, Dr. Dubin realised that there was a way to upgrade patient care in the breast cancer field, and in a flash, she knew she was going to help make the change. Fast forward eight years to April 2011 and now mother-of-three Dr. Dubin’s vision came true when the project she planned, funded and launched became the 15,000 square-foot Dubin Breast Center of The Tisch Cancer Institute at Mt Sinai Hospital - a one-stop shop where Dr. Dubin says ”everything is within arm’s reach.” The Dubin Breast Center medical staff provides comprehensive and integrated care to patients, from diagnosis through to recovery and onsite manpower includes physicians skilled in all necessary disciplines. They have access to up to the minute treatment options, including an advanced capacity for radiology and diagnostic procedures, and a state-ofthe-art 3D mammography unit that can tell if what you’re looking at is a lump-looking lesion, or just a shadow. The Center also has an evaluation and treatment department for breast, medical, and surgical oncology, and an infusion center for chemotherapy.

Other related options offered are screening, clinical trials, genetic counselling, psycho-social support and nutritional counselling. “All the doctors you need are in the one place and they can communicate with each other, consult on treatment, and share information,” Dr. Dubin says, by way of illustrating the enormous burden of travel and lack of communication that has been lifted from the shoulders of patients. Just over 12 months since its establishment, the clinic is a raging success, with an average of around 1,000 patients passing through the facility each month. On a day-to-day basis, The Dubin Breast Center pays great attention to communication and education, providing instruction and information services such as ‘How to Talk to a Child’, ‘Sex After Breast Cancer’ and ‘Information for Spouses’, that help breast cancer sufferers and their families better understand and deal with their loved ones’ fight against cancer. Also, Dr. Dubin has driven an attitude that is considerate, inclusive and progressive, with some elements of holistic medicine integrated into treatment, such as soothing and reassuring foot or hand massages for people waiting for chemotherapy or for biopsies. “Patients love it. I see how they get relaxed and don’t want to go home,” she says. A 1989 MD graduate of UCLA’s School of Medicine, Dr. Dubin completed her residency at Lenox Hill Hospital before moving into corporate medicine at Citibank. She is currently an in-house physician at the NBC TV network in Manhattan and is active in various charitable initiatives including as a board member of the Michael J. Fox Foundation, the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm and the Trinity School in Manhattan. There is no doubt that she is the force behind having the one-stop shop concept incorporated into the Dubin Breast Center. It is also clear that her determination and dedication is partly due to skills she honed in her younger days. “I lived in five different countries when I was modelling and it taught me so much about life,” she says, explaining that moving around enabled her to experience and understand different cultures in a way that is different to the short-term traveller. “I learned to become independent and how to take care of myself. Every time I reached a new city, I would buy a bicycle and a map and go and explore to get to know the place…and it helped me keep fit too,” she laughs. Dr. Dubin’s inner adventurer may have enabled her to chart the medical maze to establish the Dubin Clinic, however there is a great deal more work to be done before she will even consider relaxing. Her vision for the Clinic’s future sees an expansion of services to include broader therapeutic services such as acupuncture, a salon for patients to wash and dry their hair, nutritional advice, psychiatry services and even a specialised clothing boutique catering to mastectomy patients. Relaxation certainly doesn’t appear to be on her agenda.

Hong Kong

The World of Peninsula What’s on in Hong Kong The Dragon in Chinese Art

The Year of the Dragon is the most auspicious zodiac sign for Chinese people, with the dragon symbolising power and superior control. Appreciate partial admiration that the Chinese have for the dragon through more than 200 displays of aesthetic dragon artwork dating from the Neolithic period to the 20th Century at the Art Museum of Chinese University Hong Kong. Starting from now until 18 November, the museum welcomes the general public from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm daily for cultural exploration with no admission fee. For more information, please visit www.cuhk.edu.hk/ics/amm/

Children’s Delight - International Arts Carnival

In time for the summer holidays, the Hong Kong Government has brought back the wellliked International Arts Festival from 7 June to 19 August. Kids from different age ranges will be applauded for their array of innovative, entertaining and meaningful art performances. The carnival is unveiled with a ballet interpretation of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ followed by other exciting shows such as an eco-friendly series promoting sustainable life and a new generation series featuring 3D street dances that teenagers will find entertaining. Find more information, please visit http://www.hkiac. gov.hk/2012/eng/

Our Tsim Sha Tsui Launch

The Our Tsim Sha Tsui – Past, Present and Future exhibition takes you through a time tunnel to the soul of Tsim Sha Tsui. The secrets of the past, the cultural and commercial exuberance of the present and bold visions of the future are presented through old photographs, artifacts and oral histories that have all been captured by photography aficionados and Hong Kong’s visionary youths. Visit https://www. hongkongheritage.org/ for more information.

What’s on at The Peninsula Hong Kong The Peninsula Style Academy

Building on The Peninsula’s longstanding ties with an array of established luxury houses, The Peninsula Style Academy offers guests a bespoke styling service to enable them to look, live and feel their optimal best. Upon booking, each guest will first receive an in-depth style consultation with professional Style Consultants to assess their sartorial needs. Their tailor-made style journey then begins with a one-of-a-kind

VIP shopping experience, both in The Peninsula Arcade and beyond. Bespoke style consultations, private collection viewings, access to limited edition and one-of-a-kind pieces, and in-store VIP incentives define this unique guest offering. The Half-Day Style Academy Programme A personalised styling session with professional Style Consultants over light refreshments in a suite at The Peninsula, is followed by a customised style journey, expertly married with the latest trend forecasts. The half-day programme includes a luxury Rolls-Royce Extended Wheelbase Phantom limousine that will wait on standby to take guests to specialised VIP store visits tailored to their individual requirements. The half-day programme is from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

The Full-Day Style Academy Programme A uniquely personalised styling session with professional Style Consultants over light refreshments in a suite at The Peninsula is followed by a customised style journey, including a Rolls-Royce Extended Wheelbase Phantom limousine that will wait on standby. This full day of activities includes a complete programme of styling tailored to the guest’s individual requirements. The Full-Day Style Academy programme includes VIP store visits, exclusive luxury brand showcases and lunch with the professional Style Consultants. The full-day programme begins at 10:00 am and ends at 7:00 pm.

The Peninsula Pro-Golf Academy

Guests looking to improve their game of golf need look no further than these unique Pro-Golf Academy programmes that are guaranteed to bring a spring to any golfer’s swing.

Golf Master Class

Guests receive an exclusive “MAT-T Fitting Session” at the TaylorMade Performance Lab to assess their golfing handicap, while TaylorMade’s resident golf pro offers a unique experience of fitting guests with customised golf clubs. This invaluable three-hour class provides the tools necessary to improve any golfer’s handicap, mapped by MAT-T technology to precisely instruct how this can be achieved. The Master Class includes a chauffeured MINI Clubman transfer to and from The Peninsula Hong Kong. Classes are by appointment only.

Fly and Putt

Take off from The Peninsula’s rooftop helipad for Hong Kong’s only helicopter-golf experience. Arrive in style via the hotel’s twin-engine Squirrel helicopter at Kau Sai Chau, Hong Kong’s most scenic golf course set amid the islands of the Sai Kung archipelago. Tee off with a personal coach for a bespoke instructor-led session.

Shanghai

What’s on in Shanghai Concert by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales

12 July Shanghai Oriental Art Centre The BBC National Orchestra of Wales (BBC NOW) is a Welsh symphony orchestra and one of the BBC's five professional orchestras. The BBC NOW is the only professional symphony orchestra organisation in Wales, occupying a dual role as both a broadcasting orchestra and national orchestra. The BBC NOW is the orchestra-in-residence at St David's Hall, Cardiff and also performs regularly throughout Wales and beyond, including international tours and annual appearances at the Royal Albert Hall in London. The current Principal Conductor of the BBC NOW is Thierry Fischer, while Jac van Steen is Principal Guest Conductor and Tadaaki Otaka is the incumbent Conductor Laureate.

2012 Artistry On Ice Shanghai

17 June Shanghai Oriental Sports Centre Artistry on Ice made its debut at the Beijing Capital Indoor Stadium in September 2010. The show started with the "Ice Wedding" of the Olympic figure skating champion couple, Shen Xue and Zhao Hong Bo. In 2012, the theme of Artistry on Ice is “Red Temptation”. In addition to Shanghai and Beijing, the tour will also perform in Taipei and Shenzhen. Led by the Olympic figure skating champion couple, Shen Xue and Zhao Hong Bo, an array of stars including Yuna Kim (Korea), Shizuka Arakawa (Japan), Alissa Czisny (USA), Evgeni Plushenko (Russia), Jeffrey Buttle (Canada), Zaldua / Dmitry Sukhanov (UK), violinist Edvin Marton (Hungary) and talented musician Kay Huang, as well as Katie Holmes, will all perform at the show.

“Timeless Beauty” Exhibition by Van Cleef & Arpels

Until 15 July Museum of Contemporary Art The theme of the exhibition “Timeless Beauty” represents a journey through the history and evolution of high jewellery – a cultural legacy with several distinctive chapters and themes told through a stunning collection of around 400 pieces from the Van Cleef & Arpels Museum and private collections. The exhibition showcases the historical development of the Maison, artistic designs of different eras, inspirations, craftsmanship and well-known personalities. The exhibition also features interactive experience elements that allow visitors to discover and explore, including real life demonstrations, multimedia projections, magnifying tools, props and audio guides.

What’s on at The Peninsula Shanghai The Peninsula Shanghai Earns FiveStar Status from The Prestigious Forbes Travel Guide

The Peninsula Shanghai has been honoured as one of the world’s best hotels, with the award of the coveted Forbes Five-Star Hotel status at the 2012 Shanghai Inaugural Ratings Ceremony. The Peninsula Spa also received the exclusive FiveStar designation, and a special Editor's Choice commendation was given as the Top Technology Hotel in Shanghai. The only property in China to receive both the hotel and spa five-star awards, The Peninsula Shanghai was described as “one of the finest in the world”. Shanghai is the fourth Chinese city rated by the Forbes Travel Guide, which has reviewed hotels and spas in 78 destinations since the Star Ratings were launched in 1958. Formerly known as the Mobil Travel Guide, the Forbes Travel Guide is acknowledged as the most comprehensive ratings and reviews system for hotels, restaurants and spas in the United States and Asia, and will expand to London, Mexico and the Caribbean in 2013. Only 59 hotels and 31 spas worldwide have attained the Five-Star designation. “There is nothing more gratifying than to have collectively achieved this milestone of world –renowned recognition. We, as a team, will continue simultaneously embrace an uncompromising attention to detail with a determined focus on a shared goal and a tireless desire to make great strides in achieving highest standards of service and care, ” said Joseph W.Y. Chong, General Manager of The Peninsula Shanghai.

A Haven For All The Family

Shanghai is an intriguing and diverse city for families and children to explore together, and there’s no better place to share unforgettable memories than The Peninsula Shanghai. Special family room and suite packages are available throughout 2012, enabling families to spend quality time in stylish comfort and enjoy a thrilling range of kids activities and events plus carefully prepared breakfast, lunch and dinner menus for younger guests. Extra benefits include

a complimentary Treasure Hunt and Movie Night, plus a teddy bear luggage tag. Until 31 December 2012, families can take advantage of discounted room and suite rates, with benefits including daily breakfast in The Lobby, a complimentary meal for children aged 12 years or under, a roll-away kid’s bed, free in-room wired and wireless Internet access and VOIP telephone. Families booking a Deluxe, Deluxe River or Deluxe Garden room also enjoy a halfprice discount on a second room. Guests booking an Executive Suite or Grand Deluxe River Suite for their family will receive a complimentary adjoining room. Tailored in-room family amenities include a range of gentle baby toiletries, baby bathtubs, baby cots with bedding, baby towels and, for slightly older guests, kids’ bathrobes and slippers. On request, families can get competitive with in-room Wii, PS3 and X-Box games, or watch cartoons and movie DVDs, including the Harry Potter collection, Toy Story 3, Wallace and Gromit and the Kung Fu Panda series. Mums and Dads wanting to share a quiet meal or spa treatment can ensure peace of mind by utilising the professional in-house Baby Sitter service. Younger guests can look forward to plenty of exciting activities during their stay. The Kids’ Academy Programme features creative pursuits such as a Junior Chef Cookery Master Class, Chocolate Making, Kite Building and Teddy Bear Creation. More active pastimes include Kung Fu and Swimming classes, while a Treasure Hunt leads children on a fascinating trail of discovery through the hotel and onto The Bund. Educational and culturally oriented activities include Mandarin language classes and English language tuition. Specialist insider advice can greatly enhance a family visit to the city. The Peninsula Shanghai’s Concierge team has created the Children’s Programme – a collection of the Top 10 kids’ attractions in and around Shanghai. Meanwhile, The Peninsula Kids’ Menu is offered in all of The Peninsula Shanghai restaurants and through room service. The Peninsula Shanghai’s Family Packages are priced from RMB 2,600 per night for a Deluxe Room. A minimum stay of two consecutive nights is required.

Tokyo What’s on in Tokyo Meiji Shrine, Iris Garden

Late June 2012 From mid June, the elegant purple and white blooms of the Meiji Shrine’s Iris Garden should be at their height. The centrepiece here is a gently winding field of some 1,500 irises in 150 varieties, bordered by deep woods and quiet pathways that lead all the way to a cooling artesian spring. Designed by Emperor Meiji (1852–1912) for Empress Shoken to enjoy in all seasons, this is a real oasis in the city. meijijingu.or.jp

ISOT 2012 Fair

4 – 6 July 2012 The 23rd International Stationery & Office Products Fair Tokyo is Asia-Pacific’s premier showcase of this booming retail segment, drawing importers, exporters, wholesalers, and buyers from throughout the region. Two other fairs held concurrently – OFMEX for office equipment and GIFTEX for design-forward gift items – make this one of the liveliest trade events on Japan’s calendar. Together they drew over 68,000 people last year, just four months after the Tohoku earthquake. The affiliated Stationery of the Year Grand Prix scouts the next bestsellers in high-end papers, desk accessories, and hobby items. isot.jp

Beat Takeshi Kitano, Gosse de peintre

Through 2 September 2012 Film director Takeshi Kitano is well known abroad for his noir films but in his native Japan he is equally loved for his comedy. In this solo exhibition that thrilled Parisians in 2010 when it debuted at Fondation Cartier pour l’Art Contemporain, Kitano unleashes the colourful and family-friendly side of his offbeat approach to the world. The imaginative installations and pop-art paintings of plants and animals on show at Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery are his message that art is, and always should be, accessible to everyone. btk2012.jp

What’s on at The Peninsula Tokyo The Five Wonders of The Peninsula Tokyo

In celebration of its fifth anniversary on 1 September 2012, The Peninsula Tokyo introduces “The Five Wonders of The Peninsula Tokyo”. The hotel invites guests to experience what makes it Tokyo’s premier address. From now until 31 December 2012, when experiencing all “Five Wonders of The Peninsula Tokyo” participants are eligible to enter the “Five Wonders” lucky draw. The grand prize is a complimentary three-night stay at The Peninsula Hong Kong, including a pair of roundtrip tickets on Cathay Pacific. Sporting a new look for its guestrooms from September 2012, and The Peninsula’s next generation of technology, Hong Kong’s Grande Dame shines in all her glory.

“Save Energy For Japan” includes hotel staff wearing “Cool Business” attire uniforms, the first international luxury hotel in Tokyo ever to do so. Staff sporting custom-made white polo shirts with The Peninsula Tokyo’s “Save Energy For Japan” logo allows the hotel to reduce its energy and water consumption in laundering uniforms jackets and dress shirts, as well as permitting office space temperatures to be raised and thus reducing the need for air conditioning.

The Time Gallery

Save Energy For Japan

For the second year in its efforts to save energy for Japan during the summer, The Peninsula Tokyo introduces “Save Energy For Japan” from 1 July to 21 September 2012.

The Peninsula Tokyo welcomes The Time Gallery as its newest shopping arcade tenant. The sole Japan distributor for the Ritmo brand of luxury watches, the playful Italian designs and fine Swiss movements are a favorite of glitterati around the world.

Beijing

What’s on in Beijing Ballet - The Red Detachment of Women

30 July – 1 August 2012 National Centre For The Performing Arts The Red Detachment of Women is a Chinese ballet, which premiered in 1964 and is perhaps best known in the Western world as the ballet performed for U.S. President Richard Nixon on his visit to China in February 1972. The production is the first and most successful full-length Chinese ballet, with both the theme and content reflecting a very unique Chinese style. The dancers even lived for months in military camps to learn swordplay in order to portray the soldiers authentically on stage. Since its birth, the ballet has been highly acclaimed for its moving and tragic plot, magnificent stage design, grand music and graceful choreography. The piece has been hailed as a model of the successful combination of Western ballet technique with Chinese folk dancing.Despite its political overtones and historical background, it remains a favourite of music and ballet lovers nearly 30 years after the Cultural Revolution in China. Many numbers were based on the folk songs of Hainan Island, a place that, with its coconut trees rustling in the tropical wind evokes a romantic mood.. Although there are unmistakable elements of Chinese music, the music is performed by a Western symphony orchestra. http://www.piao008.com/Product-8395.html

Golden Mask Dynasty

Daily at 5:30 pm OTC Theatre This original, large-scale Chinese musical drama is set in the Golden Mask Dynasty, a mythical and legendary age in China. The story tells how a queen who wears a golden mask saves her Dynasty. The play comprises eight acts and includes more than 200 actors from China and overseas. Produced by Chinese playwrights, directors and designers, the production features spectacular dances, acrobatics, costumes, lighting and acoustics. http://www.beijing-travels.com/beijing_guide/ show/golden_mask_dynasty.html

living history from a unique angle. Besides accommodation, the package also includes roundtrip airport transportation and an in-depth Hutong tour for two people. The Hutong Heritage package is priced RMB 2,150 plus 15% surcharge per room per night and is valid until 31 October, 2012.

The Legend of Kung Fu

Daily From 7:30 pm to 8:50 pm The Red Theatre The Legend of Kung Fu follows the story of a young boy found wandering outside a temple. Like every boy in China, he dreams of becoming a Kung Fu master. On the road to enlightenment, the boy encounters many difficulties and temptations. The show has English subtitles above the stage. The actors do not speak and the show is all Kung Fu, acrobatics and dance in a spectacular and unique fusion of modern dance with traditional Chinese arts. The best Kung Fu practitioners from all over China have been recruited for this production with an average age of just 17. http://www.jiapiao.cn/front/perform-377.html

What’s on at The Peninsula Beijing Hutong Heritage Package

This spring, The Peninsula Beijing introduces the Hutong Heritage package to Chinese culture lovers. With hotel accommodation and an indepth Hutong tour, the Hutong Heritage package provides guests with a chance to see Beijing’s

Spa Wellness Card

Open a pre-paid account at The Peninsula Spa to enjoy unrivalled treatment discounts and exclusive benefits.. Jade, Silver and Gold cards are available with varying discounts of up to 40% on treatments as well as complimentary experiences such as afternoon tea at The Lobby Lounge and dinner at JING or Huang Ting. Cardholders can also enjoy full access to the fitness centre and swimming pool on the day of the spa treatments and complimentary car parking voucher on the days of treatment. Credit can be used for the purchaser’s treatments and their guests.

Learn About Chinese Contemporary Art

A respected art critic leads guests to visit various art areas of the capital. Participants also have the opportunity to visit local artists’ studios and apartments, appreciate Chinese Contemporary Art and meet the artists themselves. Tours of commercial galleries can also be arranged upon request. Duration: 4 hours (including transportation).

New York

What’s on in New York City Central Park SummerStage

June through September, 2012 From celebrations of American soul to spotlights on New York City’s own emerging indie-rock talent, Central Park SummerStage season offers something for everyone. Some of the performances are free, while others are require tickets and may be purchased in advance. For more information and tickets, please visit www. summerstage.org. Central Park, Rumsey Playfield, 72nd Street and 5th Avenue

What’s on at The Peninsula New York

Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival

Biologique Recherche

24 and 25 August, 2012 In celebration of the fifth month of the lunar calendar, more than 120 dragon boat teams converge on Meadow Lake to compete in one of America’s largest dragon boat festivals. Take in the spectacle on the water, and enjoy a wide array of international music, martial arts, crafts, dance and cuisine. For more information, please visit www.hkdbf-ny.org. Flushing Meadows - Corona Park 14107 20th Avenue

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This retreat is the ultimate urban getaway for two, beckoning guests to enjoy the hotel’s five-star spa facilities and glass-enclosed pool with special discounts towards spa treatments and more! Benefits include 30% off treatments at The Peninsula Spa (excluding services at Mélange Salon); Continental breakfast for two adults daily in Fives restaurant or from Room Service; $50 hotel credit; guaranteed 4:00 pm late check-out; complimentary in-room wired and wireless high-speed Internet access; complimentary local telephone calls and daily local newspaper and complimentary use of the fitness center and swimming pool. Rates from US$475.

The Peninsula Academy “Fifth Avenue Gold Coast Walking Tour”

US Open

27 August through 9 September 2012 It’s the final Grand Slam tournament of the year - the one that makes or breaks seasons, and sometimes careers. The US Open is also an iconic event in American sports, rivaled only by the Masters, the World Series and the Super Bowl. No matter how the tournament nets out, it’ll be fun to watch it unfold. For more information, please visit www.usopen.org. USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center 1 Flushing Meadows Park at 20th Avenue

Manhattan Retreat

Say Bienvenue to Biologique Recherche, The Peninsula Spa’s new facial treatment line. The Peninsula Spa is the only day spa in the city to offer this ultra luxurious yet highly clinical French product line and treatments, designed to lift and re-sculpt the face. For more information, please visit www.peninsula.com/ newyorkspa.

In its ongoing quest to satisfy the needs and wants of today’s travelers, The Peninsula New York is pleased to offer a Peninsula Academy activity: the “Fifth Avenue Gold Coast Walking Tour”. Learn the history and architecture of the great mansions along Fifth Avenue with a private tour led by Manhattan historian Joyce Gold. The two-hour walking tour includes a discussion on the social history of New York and how Fifth Avenue came to be one of the most expensive strips of land in the world. Advance noticed is required.

Chicago What’s on in Chicago Green City Market Chef’s BBQ

War cartoon paintings, Mirrors, Brushstrokes, Explosions, Artist's Studio paintings and Chinese Landscapes. Special consideration is given to Lichtenstein’s relationship to art historical sources, ranging from Picasso and Cubism through Surrealism, Futurism, German Expressionism, and the American West. Finally, the exhibition offers an examination of the artist’s use of alternative media like Plexiglas, Rowlux, and perforated steel in an attempt to broaden the understanding of his art beyond the strictly canonical early Pop paintings. This special exhibit will be located in Regenstein Hall from now through 3 September. www.artic.edu/

“Tour Du Jour!” Peninsula Academy Program

Paris Opéra Ballet The Green City Market Chef’s BBQ is held on Thursday, 12 July from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm and offers an evening of fun at the market with local chefs cooking up some BBQ. One of the best summer events in Chicago, this grand picnic is held every July in picturesque Lincoln Park, with the fabulous Chicago skyline as a backdrop. This beautiful venue is ideal to showcase some of Chicago's finest chefs; the who's who of Chicago's culinary scene. All dishes served at the BBQ feature items offered from the bounty of the market with nearly one hundred chefs and restaurants creating culinary magic. In addition to food, locally made beer, wine, hand-crafted cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages will be available. Don't miss out on one of Chicago's most unique and tastiest events of the year. It doesn't get better than great food, drink, music, and the beauty of Lincoln Park on a summer evening in Chicago. http://www.greencitymarket.org

The French are coming to Chicago! The Harris Theater for Music and Dance is honored to present the Chicago debut of the Paris Opéra Ballet with a weeklong engagement from 26 June through 1 July, marking the Ballet’s first return to the United States in more than a decade. The world’s finest company will launch its national tour at The Harris Theater with two programs that the company has never previously presented in the United States the iconic love story Giselle (26 through 28 June), a cornerstone of the company’s repertoire since it created the work more than 250 years ago; and a program of French Mixed Repertoire to include Suite en blanc by Serge Lifar, Roland Petit’s L’Arlésienne, and Le Boléro by Maurice Béjart (29 June through 1 July) - accompanied by the Grant Park Orchestra in a first-ever collaboration with the Harris Theater. Mayor Rahm Emanuel will serve as Honorary Chair of the Opening Night Benefit Gala on 26 June, welcoming the company to Chicago for the first time. http://www. harristheaterchicago.org/

Customize your own Vintage Fashion Adventure with two of Chicago’s most savvy creators. Learn all about the history of the fashion industry with a Master Class; take a luxury tour of the North Shore suburbs and find out why F. Scott Fitzgerald compared it to the Hamptons. If you are interested in vintage jewelry, there is a tour for that. Or, go behind the scenes of a world-class museum to have an insider’s view of the costume collection. Perhaps a day of shopping at Chicago’s vintage shops and lunch. All lectures are given by lifestyle experts, including fashion, interiors, floral designers and more. Pricing is from US$ 300 per person, plus transportation costs, if applicable.

Launch of New ESPA Age-Rebel Treatment for Men

Roy Lichtenstein: A Retrospective

What’s on at The Peninsula Chicago Chicago Birthday-Themed Cookie Amenity for Kids

This exhibition, the first presentation of the full scope and breadth of Roy Lichtenstein’s career since his death in 1997, aims to offer a new, scholarly assessment of the work of this foremost Pop artist. Lichtenstein is an artist whose work is widely known, reproduced, copied and parodied. Presenting over 130 paintings and sculptures, as well as over thirty little- or never-before-seen drawings and collages, this exhibition gives full consideration to all periods of Lichtenstein’s career, including but not limited to, pre-Pop expressionist work, classic Pop Romance and

The city of Chicago celebrated its 175th birthday on 4 March, 2012 by launching "175 Days to Love Chicago," taking place 4 March through 26 August, 2012. This city-wide campaign highlights the vibrant cultural landscape that distinguishes Chicago as a premier tourism destination. One way The Peninsula Chicago is participating in the birthday celebration is by offering a Chicago Birthday Cookie as part of every child's amenity through 26 August.

Beginning in June 2012, men can prevent the signs of aging with this targeted new facial that includes intensive age-defying formulas to firm and restructure, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and treat dark circles found around the eyes. Containing the highest levels of completely natural fruit acids and AHA’s, the Age-Rebel Treatment dramatically aids the removal of dead skin cells and boosts cell regeneration. Using powerful moisture-quenching ingredients, a deep facial massage is followed by an application of an ESPA Professional Lifting and Smoothing Mask to leave skin toned. Two new products - the Age-Rebel Hydrator and the Age-Rebel Moisturizer - are being launched with this new men’s facial. This 90-minute treatment is priced at US$ 285.

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Beverly Hills What’s on in Beverly Hills Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance

The Grove Summer Concert Series (Caruso)

17 June 2012, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm The theme for this year's Rodeo Drive Concours d´Elegance is "The British Are Coming!” Aston Martin will be this year´s featured marque and Gearys Beverly Hills will be the presenting sponsor in celebration of their new Rolex store opening on Rodeo Drive in June 2012. The annual Father´s Day tradition features a wide variety of vintage and racing cars and motorcycles lining Rodeo Drive north from Wilshire Boulevard to Santa Monica Boulevard. As the 2012 featured marque, Aston Martin will be the centerpiece of the 200 block of Rodeo Drive with both new and classic cars. Combining iconic styling, thrilling performance, true craftsmanship and exclusivity, Aston Martin boasts unprecedented breadth and appeal. The marque´s iconic DB5 has been featured in five James Bond films. The 300 Block of Rodeo Drive will also feature British classic and racing autos including Austin Healy, Bentley, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lotus, MG, McLaren and Rolls Royce brands. Also, a special British motorcycle area will honor Triumph, Vincent, BSA and Norton. On the 400 block of Rodeo Drive, this year´s Concours will feature "The Best of the Best" with classic cars of any marque considered by the show´s curators. Also on the 400 block, the Rodeo Drive Concours will feature a special tribute to Cobra´s 50th Anniversary. The Rodeo Drive Concours d´Elegance has been named one of the "300 Unmissable Events & Festivals Around the World" by top travel publisher Frommer´s. The car show is free and open to the public. Rodeo Drive North from Wilshire Boulevard to Santa Monica Boulevard http://www.rodeodrive-bh.com/CNC/ CNC_2012.html

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4 July to 30 August 2012 In 2012, Caruso Affiliated will partner with the House of Blues to produce concerts at both The Grove and The Americana at Brand. On select weekdays throughout the entire summer, The Grove and The Americana at Brand will be transformed into open-air concert venues featuring free, live performances by some of the hottest musicians and rising stars in the business. Whether it’s a hot new artist or a lifelong favorite, Caruso Affiliated has featured some of the best summer entertainment to hit the stage. Over the past eight years, the annual concert series has included an all-star musical line up with performances by Natasha Bedingfield, Sergio Mendes, Richard Marx, Lonestar, Gavin Rossdale, Alanis Morissette, Jewel, Michelle Branch, Ashley Tisdale, Jada Pinkett-Smith and Will Smith, to name just a few. Crowds of up to 15,000 attend these free weekly concerts each night, spreading out on blankets in the park, catching the show over dinner from each center’s numerous restaurant patios and balconies, or simply enjoying the music while strolling under the stars through our property’s quaint internal streets. The Grove Northeast Corner of Fairfax Avenue and Third Street Los Angeles, California

Beverly Hills Farmer’s Market

Ongoing The Beverly Hills Farmes’ Market is a weekly outdoor certified market which provides the finest California-grown, fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables, juices, breads, specialty items and more in a festive outdoor setting. The market features special events such as Kid’s Zone, Cookin’ Kinds, City department showcases and hosts more than 60 farmers and vendors every week. Also, it offers specialty prepared foods that can be enjoyed at the market or taken home: gourmet tamales, french crepes, salads and much more! 9300 Block of Civic Center Drive Beverly Hills, California 90210 +1 (310) 285 6830 http://www.beverlyhills.org/attractions/market/

What’s on at The Peninsula Beverly Hills Next Stop to Neiman Marcus Shopping Experience

Until 30 August 2012 Located in the heart of a city famed for shopping, The Peninsula Beverly Hills takes retail therapy to a new level with the Next Stop Neiman Marcus experience. The overnight room package invites guests to enjoy a private luxury house car chauffeured shopping trip to Neiman Marcus – a true only-in-Beverly Hills experience – during their stay at The Peninsula.Highlights include: upgrade to next available room category upon booking; lunch for two at Neiman Marcus’ Mariposa Restaurant, excluding beverages and caviar; a private make-up session at Neiman Marcus; a consultation with a Personal Shopper at Neiman Marcus; complimentary private luxury house car transportation to and from Neiman Marcus and a signature Neiman Marcus chocolate chip cookie and recipe. Rates from US $595 for a Superior Room (not including tax and gratuity)

The Peninsula Academy: “Romancing the Stone” Ongoing The Peninsula Beverly Hills introduces the new Peninsula Academy, Romancing the Stone. This is to showcase the artistry of internationally renowned couture jewelry designer Henri J. Sillam. The World of Henri J. Sillam’s first U.S. Boutique is right at home of the Peninsula Beverly Hills. Hotel guests are invited to explore the Sillam collection with Mr. Sam Cole, co-owner of all US Operations for a private consultation, special pricing on signature creations and custom-designed pieces and enjoy the legendary Afternoon Tea in The Living Room. The fee for this exclusive Peninsula Academy Romancing the Stone experience is $495 per couple.

The Peninsula Beverly Hills’ Unique Amenity The 24-hour check-in/check-out experience at The Peninsula Beverly Hills, allow guests to arrive and depart at their leisure.

Bangkok What’s on in Bangkok Thai Khon Masked Dance Performance

1 June – 31 August 2012 Sala Chalermkrung Theatre Khon is Thailand’s classical masked dance that is regarded as one of the country’s most refined performing arts that was originally limited to the Royal Court. Performances are extremely expensive to produce, requiring lavish costumes, elaborate masks, headgear and stage accessories that require highly skilled craftsmen to create. The scenes performed in the traditional Khon are taken from the Ramakien, a series of significant episodes in Thai literature based on the Indian epic of classical mythology, the Ramayana, which greatly influenced the literature of almost all nations in Southeast Asia. For more information, please visit www. salachalermkrung.com

Mini Marathon Chalerm Phrakiart

12 August 2012 Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) The Thai peoples’ deep loyalty and love for H.M. the Queen is expressed in many ways and the N.C.C. – TTM Mini Marathon Chalerm Phrakiart 2012 is one of these. Taking place on the auspicious occasion of H.M. the Queen’s 80th birthday, The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), Thailand Tobacco Monopoly (TTM) and Ministry of Finance cordially invite everyone to join in the event, with a chance to win prestigious trophies. This is the 20th edition of the charity sports event organised by N.C.C. Management & Development Co., Ltd., and all proceeds after expenses will go to the Queen Sirikit Center for Breast Cancer, King Chulalongkorn Hospital, and the Thai Red Cross Society. All participants receive a complimentary T-shirt and souvenir coin. For more information, please visit www.qsncc.com or contact +66 2229 3000.

What's on at The Peninsula Bangkok The Peninsula Academy: Thai HomeStyle Cooking Class

Learn the art of cooking Thai cuisine, starting with an optional visit to the local fresh market to purchase the ingredients. With or without this visit, the class includes a step-by-step demonstration and explanation of the processes and techniques needed to prepare four wonderful Thai dishes. Classes begin at 9:30 am and the programme includes lunch at Thiptara, The Peninsula Bangkok’s Thai restaurant. It is available for a minimum of two people and one day’s advance notice is required.

“A Walk into Bangkok’s Past” In this new programme, guests will travel into the Bangkok of the past along a tranquil riverside setting where historic neighbourhoods that date back more than two centuries have maintained the diverse cultural heritage of three religions and four beliefs (Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism, Christianity and Islam). This melding of multi-ethnic cultures and religions formed the basis of the distinctive character of this riverside community, which surrounds Wat Kalayanamit (a Buddhist temple) and is known today as Kudee Chin, meaning “Chinese shrine” in Thai. “Siam’s Treasure” On this tour, guests can learn about Thai history at the National Museum and National Art Gallery, which house the largest collections of Thai art and artifacts in the country. The tour guide offers an insight into the history of Thailand from the Sukhothai to the Rattanakosin periods based on the art pieces and national collections in the museums. The Archaeological and Art History collections offer a glimpse into the ways of life seen in Thailand and Southeast Asia several hundred years ago.

The Peninsula Academy: “A Walk into Bangkok’s Past” and “Siam’s Treasure”

The Peninsula Bangkok is proud to offer “A Walk into Bangkok’s Past” and “Siam’s Treasure”, two new programmes from The Peninsula Academy.

9 Temple Tour by Chao Phraya Express Boat Service

1 June – 31 August 2012 This service runs only on Sundays and offers tourists access to the many attractions in the riverside area such as Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn), Wat Pho, Chinatown and The Grand Palace. The Chao Phraya Tourist Boat departs from BTS Saphan Taksin at 9:30 am. Guests will be accompanied by an onboard tourist guide who will navigate and answer questions. For more information, please visit www. chaophrayaexpressboat.com or contact +66 2623 6001-3 ext. 100/ 108

The Peninsula Academy Library

Enjoy a vast array of entertaining and interesting information to help make your stay even more memorable at The Peninsula Academy Library. Located in the hotel’s Business Centre on the second floor, The Peninsula Academy Library is the perfect place for guests to browse through books, listen to music and enjoy DVDs on Thailand’s rich heritage and culture, or borrow these items to enjoy during their visit. The Library provides a myriad of information and entertainment choices, along with detailed insights into the many attractions that Thailand has to offer.

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Manila

Woodsman and a Cowardly Lion who help her on her journey to avoid the clutches of the Wicked Witch Of The West. Ong Stage, 2nd Floor, Greenbelt 1, Makati City

Phantom of the Opera

What’s on in Manila

August 25 to 30 The Phantom of the Opera is a heart-wrenching story of the mysterious, hideously disfigured Phantom who lives beneath the Paris Opera House, and his obsession with the young singer Christine. Disguised as the "Angel of Music" he devotes himself to creating a new opera star, and winning her love from his rival Raoul, while exercising a reign of terror over the Opera House. CCP Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo) Pasay City

Meet the Biggest Fish in the World

June 1 to 30 Philippine waters are the richest in marine diversity. One of the wonders to be found is the biggest fish in the world - the Whale Shark or Butanding as it is locally known. The Mind Museum's Life Gallery will have a life-size and life-like model of the Whale Shark by the most creative Filipino artists. The Mind Museum, Taguig City

Rock of Ages

God of Carnage

July 13 to 22 God of Carnage (originally Lay Waste to England for Me) is a play by Yasmina Reza. It is about two pairs of parents, one of whose child has hurt the other at a public park, who meet to discuss the matter in a civilized manner. However, as the evening goes on, the parents become increasingly childish, resulting in the evening dissolving into chaos. Starring Tony Award- and Olivier Awardwinning actress, Lea Salonga, SingaporeanChinese actor Adrian Pang with Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo and Art Acuna. Carlos P. Romulo Theatre, RCBC Plaza Makati City

Cirque du Soleil: Saltimbanco June 15 to July 8 The Manila production will feature FilipinoAustralian MiG Ayesa in the role of Stacee Jaxx, the same role he portrayed recently on Broadway and in the first US national tour. MiG Ayesa was one of the three finalists in CBS' Rockstar INXS. He will be joined by Vina Morales, Nyoy Volante and Aiza Seguerra to name few. Carlos P. Romulo Theatre, RCBC Plaza Makati City

Virgin Labfest 8

July 1 to 8 This is a festival of new, unpublished and unstaged works by Philippine playwrights. It is an annual partnership project of the Writer’s Bloc, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and its resident artistic group Tanghalang Pilipino. The festival is an exciting showcase of the newest and most innovative short/one-act plays chosen from numerous submitted entries from all over the country. Tanghalang Huseng Batute (CCP Studio Theater) Pasay City

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August 9 to 19 Saltimbanco is a thrilling and kaleidoscopic celebration of awe-inspiring artistry and agility. With a cast of 50 high-caliber artists hailing from 20 different countries, Saltimbanco features breathtaking acrobatics and unbelievable athleticism doing solo spotlights and epic ensembles. From the seemingly impossible balancing, jumping, and spinning during the Chinese Poles or the Russian Swing to the gravity-defying bungees and trapeze, the crowd pleasing juggling and acrobatic bicycle, to the celebrated and very unique clowns. Full of colour, amusement and amazement, Saltimbanco is a fun show for the whole family. Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay City

The Wizard of Oz

August 18 to December 16 After a tornado whisks away a young Kansas farm girl Dorothy to the magical land of Oz she starts her quest to find the mighty Wizard of Oz who has the power to send her home. Along the way she teams up with a Scarecrow, a Tin

What’s on at The Peninsula Manila The Peninsula Manila Welcomes New Director of Food and Beverage, Gerhard Doll

Gerhard Doll comes back to The Peninsula Manila as the new Director of Food and Beverage. Mr. Doll brings with him a wealth of skill and familiarity with the Peninsula Hotels having been with the group for more than a decade. Before returning to The Peninsula Manila, German-born Mr. Doll was the Director of Operations at Number 1 Waitanyuan in Shanghai, a State Guest House managed by The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Ltd. In assuming his new role, Mr. Doll is expected to bring a new level of refinement to the hotel’s Food and Beverage operations thanks to his experience gained in the top dining establishments of Europe and Asia.

The Peninsula Academy: The Corregidor Spirit Helicopter Tour

The Peninsula Manila’s newest Peninsula Academy program provides a new perspective on history and the Philippines with stirring tales of World War II heroism and a heart-stopping aerial tour of the earth’s most active small volcano. Three hours, minimum of two and a maximum of five persons

Enhancement Program for The Peninsula Manila’s Lobby In a bid to offer guests the highest levels of comfort and experiential luxury during their stay, The Lobby of The Peninsula Manila is getting an upgrade scheduled to start in July 2012. The new Lobby décor combines carefully selected soft furnishings with floral arrangements and new plants giving essential bursts of color and highlighting the unique grandeur of The Lobby.