Le Canard’s “Titanic” Valentine event

Event Date: Tuesday 14 February 2012

Published by Business and Arts South Africa

The artists chosen for Gauteng’s most sought-after Valentines banquet are musicians Daline Wilson on violin and Kevin Kraak on piano. One of The South African Ballet Theatre’s principal dancers, Anya Carstens, will feature in a special pas-de-deux performance choreographed for the evening by Iain MacDonald.

Daline is a young and dynamic musician, currently second violin co-principal of the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra. She also performs with SA’s other major orchestras locally and abroad. A recipient of numerous awards and accolades, Daline has appeared on UNISA’s Honorary Roll for several of her exams. As violin teacher she is involved in numerous outreach programmes and since 2009 she has been actively involved with the JPO Academy Orchestra.

Kevin is no stranger to Le Canard’s piano, having performed under the baton of Tim Roberts at the recent successful fundraiser, Non-Guy Fawkes Dinner, for the Sandton SPCA. Originally from the mother city, Kevin studied organ at the University Of Cape Town under Prof Shirley Gie. As chorister Kevin has recorded for the BBC and SABC on numerous occasions, and lists performances for Queen Elizabeth and Nelson Mandela as some career highlights. He currently plays piano, organ and harpsichord for the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra.

Anya Carstens has been dancing since the age of 5, eventually completing her first training at the National School of the Arts. Progressing from PACT Ballet days, and enjoying a wealth of experience, Anya joined The South African Ballet Theatre. Her performances with SABT have included title roles of “Giselle”, “Romeo and Juliet” and “Carmen”, where she appeared opposite Dirk Weyershausen of the Royal Norway Ballet in 2010. Anya has also performed at the special SABT fundraiser dinners at Le Canard Restaurant, whose partnership has earned a prestigious BASA Award.

A legend on the South African professional ballet scene, Iain MacDonald is one of the founder members of The South African Ballet Theatre, which has recently celebrated their tenth birthday. He has enjoyed numerous international guest artist accolades, as well as scooping the local FNB Vita Award for Ballet. Appointed as Artistic Director in 2009, Iain has choreographed works for many seasons, including the “West Side Story” ballet suite. And as Senior Principal Dancer he has performed major lead roles, including Siegfried in 'Swan Lake' and Albrecht in 'Giselle'. Iain has also been instrumental in compiling and producing the special edition commemorative book and photographic journal celebrating the ballet company’s 10-year history. This publication will be made available for purchase at the dinner.

Notes on the dinner:

One hundred years ago, on the evening of April 14, 1912, the well-heeled passengers settled into the First Class Dining Salon to enjoy a sumptuous multi-course dinner, accompanied by an array of the finest wines and liqueurs. Little did they know that this glorious feast served in Edwardian elegance, complete with music from the string orchestra, was to be their last.

Le Canard Restaurant in Sandton will again recreate this impressive 11-course menu, based on the original salvaged from the wreckage, and featuring cuisine inspired by the king of chefs, Auguste Escoffier; and this year with a few new twists.

This fine dining will be accompanied by some fine "wining" with local and imported wine and liqueurs partnered to the dishes being served. From research and to keep with the theme, Le Canard will transform itself to resemble the splendour of the Titanic, complete with candelabra and an array of pink and white flowers.

Between the fun interactive iceberg warnings, this year's live music will be provided by members of the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra, namely Daline Wilson, violin, and Kevin Kraak on piano. The classical, yet slightly "jazzed up" music, will set the opulent mood for this black-tie gourmet banquet. Another highlight will be a special guest artist pas-de-deux performance by stars of The South African Ballet Theatre to create the ultimate evening of romance (weather dependent). Of course, "survival gifts" will again be handed out at the end of the evening.

And in the Titanic’s centenary year, every signed guest at Le Canard will be entered into a draw, with one lucky couple winning a trip to Ireland to visit the Titanic Belfast Museum, opening in March 2012, courtesy of Development Promotions.

Drop anchor at: Le Canard Restaurant, 163 Rivonia Road, Morningside, Sandton
Time: 19:00 for 19:15
Dress: Strictly Formal/Black Tie (Period costume is optional fun. Encouraged... but not mandatory)
Cost: R780 per person (all inclusive of menu, entertainment, wines, gratuities and gifts)

To get your "Boarding Pass" call us on 011 884 4597 or e-mail on lecanard@icon.co.za

Whether you are an Iceberg, Goldberg or Van den Berg... this is an event not to be missed!

lecanard@icon.co.za
www.lecanard.co.za
www.devprom.co.za
www.saballettheatre.co.za

Web site: http://www.lecanard.co.za
Related Venue:
Le Canard Restaurant, 163 Rivonia Road Morningside Sandton Johannesburg Gauteng South Africa