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Теги: magazine magazine luxury trending
Год: 2024
Текст
,Z[tL3H\KLY0UJ
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San Francisco Ballet in Tomasson’s Nutcracker
// © Erik Tomasson
LUXURY TRENDING
THE
SAN FRANCISCO
BALLET
An Exciting Season under the Direction of Tamara Rojo
By Heide VanDoren Betz
The 2024 Repertory Season includes world
premiere commissions, a double bill of Latina
choreographers, reimaginations of Pandora’s Box and
Carmen, an exploration of Frida Kahlo’s life, and classics
rarely performed in the U.S.
• Three selections from 2023’s critically acclaimed next@90
festival: Yuri Possokhov’s Violin Concerto, Nicolas Blanc’s
Gateway to the Sun, and Danielle Rowe’s MADCAP.
• Swan Lake, the striking classical ballet set to
Tchaikovsky’s iconic score.
Curated by Tamara Rojo, the ƅłņŎ woman to
lead the trailblazing company and San Francisco Ballet’s
ƅłņŎ new łŎăņŎă× ăłá×ŎĦł in nearly four Ýá×¾Ýáņ͜ the
season centers on cross-disciplinary and cross-cultural
collaborations, celebrates the artists and histories of San
8ł¾ğ×ăņ×Ħ͜ and ņĿĦŎĘă÷ÿŎņ ŨĦĞáğΉņ ŧĦă×áņ on ņŎ¾÷á and ĦƂ͛
• Balanchine’s whimsical A Midsummer Night’s Dream,
which will triumphantly return to the stage—now
featuring Christian Lacroix’s design, never-before-seen
in the ͛͛ͽ¾öŎáł Öá×ĦĞăğ÷ the ƅłņŎ major ĿłĦÝœ×ŎăĦğ in
the country to shut down in March 2020.
Programs in the 2024 Repertory Season, taking
place at the War Memorial Opera House from January 26–
May 5, include:
The repertory season will be presented with the
Grammy Ũ¾łÝͺŨăğğăğ÷ San 8ł¾ğ×ăņ×Ħ Ballet dł×ÿáņŎł¾
under the Ýăłá×ŎăĦğ of ]œņă× ăłá×ŎĦł Martin West.
• A world ĿłáĞăáłá SF Ballet ×ĦĞĞăņņăĦğ for Ħł×ÿáņŎł¾
and áĘá×ŎłĦğă×ņ led by Ğœņă× ĿłĦÝœ×áłͨ R and ×ĦĞĿĦņáł
Floating Points and renowned choreographer Aszure
Barton, who will reimagine Pandora’s Box through an
immersive sensory experience melding dance, electronic
music, and design, brought to life by a global collective of
artists.
• A double bill of Latina ×ÿĦłĦ÷ł¾Ŀÿáłņ͜ öá¾Ŏœłăğ÷ a world
premiere retelling of Carmen from Olivier-awardwinning choreographer and rising star Arielle Smith, and
Annabelle Lopez Ochoa’s Broken Wings, a vibrant and
colorful exploration of Frida Kahlo’s life.
• Kenneth MacMillan’s Song of the Earth and Frederick
Ashton’s Marguerite and Armand, two iconic works from
the British canon that are rarely performed in the U.S.
Tamara Rojo as Marguerite and Sergei Polunin as Armand in the Royal Ballet
production of Frederick Ashton’s ‘Marguerite and Armand’ // Tristram Kenton
Photograph © 2011 The Royal Opera House/Tristram Kenton.
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 67
San Francisco Ballet in Tomasson’s Nutcracker
// © Erik Tomasson
SAN FRANCISCO BALLET 2024 SEASON:
Opening Night Gala
January 24, 2024
The 91st Season Opening Night Gala, where
guests will step into the immersive world of Pandora’s
Myth, is aptly called Pandora: Curiosity Unveiled. This
year’s theme draws inspiration from the forthcoming
world premiere of Mere Mortals. It will transport guests,
by conceptualizing the myths of Pandora, to an otherworldly dimension where innovation, creativity, and the
curious spirit of humanity ignite.
From a sumptuous dinner at City Hall, a
transformative performance at the War Memorial Opera
House, to an electrifying after-party evening, all senses
will be captivated for a truly unforgettable evening.
Gala Chair: Michelle C. Harris; Décor Chair: Maria
Hemphill; Dinner Chair: Pam Preston
Honorary Chairs: The Honorable Nancy Pelosi, Speaker
Emerita of the US House of Representatives and Mr. Paul
Pelosi
By attending and supporting the gala, guests
contribute to SF Ballet’s mission to share the joy of dance
with everyone. The creation of new works and preservation
of the classics, scholarships for aspiring SF Ballet School
students, and community education programs that serve
thousands of Bay Area youth, families, and seniors are
funded through this event.
68 • PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA •
San Francisco Ballet in Tomasson’s Nutcracker
// © Erik Tomasson
Sam Shepherd // © Dan Medhurst
FLOATING POINTS AND ASZURE BARTON’S MERE
MORTALS (WORLD PREMIERE)
January 26–February 1, 2024
A collective of boundary-pushing artists from
around the world and across disciplines, brought together
by Tamara Rojo, will recontextualize the classic parable
of Pandora’s Box for our modern world in Mere Mortals.
This new kind of ballet experience, which marks the
Ë©³·ƅy³À©H ey³eqyu©e
female choreographer, will take on the possibilities and
qy¨·yqy p©·³ p e©³Ëqe ³yyqyŭ My
team is spearheaded by composer Floating Points (aka
Sam Shepherd), a U.K.-based composer, producer, and
DJ known equally for his headlining appearances on the
electronic music festival circuit and his contributions to
contemporary classical and jazz; and Aszure Barton, the
Canadian-born, internationally celebrated choreographer
renowned for her innovative and interdisciplinary
approach to dance.
An immersive sensory experience will take over
the War Memorial Opera House, combining dance,
electronic music, visual design, and technology. Design
qep©e³©q·uy e©qyeƅpeyuuyË©"e
Industries, whose work emphasizes the visualization of
sound with computerized, robotic, and video techniques;
and Michelle Jank, one of Australia’s most talented and
versatile couture and costume designers who has been a
collaborator of Aszure Barton for over a decade.
San Francisco Ballet in Tomasson’s Nutcracker // © Erik Tomasson
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 69
Aszure Barton // © Graeme Mitchell
LUXURY TRENDING
BRITISH ICONS:
KENNETH MACMILLAN’S SONG OF THE EARTH AND
FREDERICK ASHTON’S MARGUERITE AND ARMAND
Tamara Rojo, Joseph Caley, and Fernando Carratalá Coloma in
English National Ballet’s Song of the Earth by Kenneth MacMillan
// © Laurent Liotardo
February 9–15, 2024
British Icons will bring together two of the most
important British ballet choreographers, Sir Kenneth
MacMillan and Sir Frederick Ashton, whose work is
rarely staged in the U.S. and has never been seen in San
©eqqŭeqpey³y©e³©©yÌyq³³y
power of love and loss.
MacMillan’s Song of the Earth weaves a story
of love, loss, and bittersweet death through poetic and
melancholic choreography, along with two live singers
accompanying the Mahler song cycle Das Lied von der
Erde. MacMillan, the leading choreographer of his time,
q©¦©e³y Ì·yqy © *e¦eyy 3 eu +ep·
³ye³y© e pye·³·Ũ ¦©·u ©yÌyq³ ©³e³Â
and loneliness.
Ashton’s deeply passionate and lushly designed
Marguerite & Armand, with highly coveted principal roles
originally created for ballet superstars Rudolf Nureyev
and Margot Fonteyn—who famously performed with SF
Ballet’s company during the “Summer of Love” in 1967—
will make a rare U.S. appearance in SF Ballet’s program
as only the second American company to perform this
work.
Tamara Rojo, Joseph Caley, and Fernando Carratalá Coloma in
English National Ballet’s Song of the Earth by Kenneth MacMillan
// © Laurent Liotardo
70 • PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA •
San Francisco Ballet in Tomasson’s Swan Lake
// © Erik Tomasson
Wona Park and Wei Wang in Tomasson’s Swan Lake
// © Erik Tomasson
Kamryn Baldwin in Tomasson’s Swan Lake
// © Erik Tomasson
SWAN LAKE
February 23–March 3, 2024
The quintessential classical ballet, Swan Lake,
made its U.S. premiere at SF Ballet in 1940, where it
has remained an integral part of the company’s history.
Created by former Artistic Director of SF Ballet, Helgi
Tomasson’s striking Swan Lake includes sleek set
and costume designs by Tony Award winner Jonathan
Fensom and is performed to Tchaikovsky’s iconic
and sweeping score. It offers a rich interpretive and
choreographic challenge in the dual roles of innocent
8uy³³yeuÌepÂe³Âey¿y³8uyŭ
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LUXURY TRENDING
San Francisco Ballet in Balanchine’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream
// Choreography by George Balanchine © The Balanchine Trust;
Photo © Erik Tomasson
NEXT@90 CURTAIN CALL
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM
Yuri Possokhov’s Piano Concerto | Nicolas Blanc’s
Gateway to the Sun | Danielle Rowes MADCAP
March 12–March 23, 2024
y©y eeqyƑ Ë©³ ©e ·ƅy³
ballet that was quickly hailed as a masterpiece, A
Midsummer Night’s Dream, was last performed by SF
Ballet in March 2020; its run was cut short after only one
¦y ³ ¦y©©eqyŨ pyq ³y Ë©³ e©
production in the country to shut down in advance of
the COVID-19 pandemic. This whimsical story ballet and
Shakespearean classic will make its triumphant return to
the San Francisco stage, now with opulent costumes and
stage design by French haute couture designer Christian
LaCroix, which has only been seen in the Paris Opera
Ballet’s production and will make an appearance on the
QŭHŭ³ey©³yË©³³yŭ
April 2–13, 2024 (in repertory with Program 6)
My yeƑ ˳ ¦©©e À p© peq
three highlights from 2022’s next@90 festival, which all
emulate excellence in choreography and have artistic ties
to the SF Ballet community:
Violin Concerto by SF Ballet’s Choreographer in
Residence Yuri Possokhov, a homage to George Balanchine
with a fresh interpretation of Igor Stravinsky’s 1931 score,
which captures Possokhov’s decidedly contemporary
perspective on classical dance vocabulary while showing
off the steely technique and emotional breadth of SF
Ballet’s dancers;
Gateway to the Sun by Nicolas Blanc, former SF
Ballet principal dancer and current choreographer at
My *©y ey³ŨÀq y© e ¦y³q Ë¿yƅ¿yy³
abstract ballet inspired by a Rumi poem and set to an
exquisite contemporary score by Anna Clyne; and
San Francisco Ballet in Possokhov’s Violin Concerto // © Lindsay Thomas
Misa Kuranaga and Angelo Greco in Balanchine’s A Midsummer Night’s
Dream // Choreography by George Balanchine © The Balanchine Trust;
Photo © Erik Tomasson
72 • PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA •
Max Cauthorn in Blanc’s Gateway to the Sun
// © Lindsay Thomas
San Francisco Ballet in Rowe’s MADCAP // © Lindsay Thomas
San Francisco Ballet in Rowe’s MADCAP // © Lindsay Thomas
MADCAP
MADCAP by Danielle Rowe, a frequent SF Ballet
collaborator whose theatrical and bombastic feat of
storytelling invites audiences into the sinister world of
clowns after the circus lights go dark, elevated by eerie,
carnival-inspired music and dancer vocalizations.
Dos Mujeres: Arielle Smith’s Carmen (World Premiere)
& Annabelle Lopez Ochoa’s Broken Wings
(North American Premiere)
April 4–14, 2024 (in repertory with Program 5)
SF Ballet will present Dos Mujeres, an exploration
-e³e Àeu ³e³ e© ³y q¦eÂƑ Ë©³
u·pyƅpyeyq©y©e¦y©eu³Ë©³¦©©e
dedicated to Latinx stories.
The program will begin with a world premiere
commission and reinterpretation of Carmen by rising
star Arielle Smith, a Havana-born, London-based
choreographer who was recently awarded an Olivier for
Outstanding Achievement in Dance and named “One to
Watch” by The Guardian in 2022. Revisiting the story’s
original themes, Carmen will restore agency to the iconic
heroine, accompanied by Smith’s boundary-pushing,
cinematic approach to choreography and the colors and
sounds of Cuba, brought to life by a newly commissioned
score by Grammy Award-winning jazz composer and
pianist Arturo O’Farrill that incorporates Cuban folk music.
Carmen will be complemented by Annabelle Lopez
Ochoa’s Broken Wings, a vibrant, colorful exploration of
the life and surrealist art of Frida Kahlo, who lived in San
Francisco in the early period of her career. Featuring an
original score interwoven with mariachi and Mexican folk
music and a chorus of skeletons, Broken Wings offers a
unique opportunity to enter the realms of Kahlo’s paintings
through the lens of her wildly creative spirit.
74 • PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA •
LUXURY TRENDING
Tamara Rojo as Marguerite and Sergei Polunin as
Armand in the Royal Ballet production of Frederick
Ashton’s ‘Marguerite and Armand’
Tristram Kenton Photograph © 2011
The Royal Opera House/Tristram Kenton
TAMARA ROJO
Tamara Rojo, Artistic Director of San Francisco
Ballet, said, “The warm welcome I’ve received from the
San Francisco community has been truly inspiring.
©  ˩³ ye e©³³q ©yq³©Ũ # e ¿³ e
cross-cultural group of exceptional artists to bring their
creativity and visions to my new home city.” She comments
further: “From engaging with technology in new and
intriguing ways to offering exciting interpretations of
two Latina heroines to the creation of new, contemporary
scores, this season we will showcase the broad talents of
our world-renowned company while expanding what the
War Memorial Opera House, its audiences, and ballet
itself can look like.”
SUBSCRIPTION AND SINGLE TICKETS
Six program subscription packages to SF
Ballet’s 2024 Season range in price from $132 to $2,514.
Individual tickets for SF Ballet’s 2024 Season, start at $29.
Visit sfballet.org or call Ticket Services, at 415865-2000.
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 75
LUXURY TRENDING
Exploring the Musical Frontier:
Mason Bates’ Unconventional Symphony
by Geraldine Zialcita
When Mason was nine years old, he
worked as a DJ and techno artist, performing
received a typewriter for Christmas which
under the alias Masonic in various San Francisco
ignited his dream of becoming a writer. “The
clubs and lounges.
typewriter was quite symbolic for me since
this became my portal to other worlds. I wrote
In the same year, Mason co-founded
¾ğÝΨ ăĘĘœņŎł¾ŎáÝΨ ņŎĦłăáņΨ ¾ÖĦœŎΨ ö¾łͺĦƂΨ ĿĘ¾×áņΨ ¾ğÝΨ
]áł×œłŮΨĦœĘ͜Ψ¾ΨğĦğĿłĦƅŎΨĦł÷¾ğăŶ¾ŎăĦğΨÖ¾ņáÝΨăğΨ
times. Although my childhood dream was to be
San Francisco, together with conductor Benjamin
a writer, I soon started composing music for
×ÿŨ¾łŎŶΨ ¾ğÝΨ ŧăņœ¾ĘΨ Ýáņă÷ğáłΨ ğğáΨ }¾ŎŎáłņĦğ͛Ψ
piano and then for my school choir. A conductor
ÿăņΨ ăğğĦŧ¾ŎăŧáΨ Ħł÷¾ğăŶ¾ŎăĦğΨ Ħł×ÿáņŎł¾ŎáņΨ ×ĘœÖΨ
commissioned me to write a symphony in tenth
shows that seamlessly blend classical music with
÷ł¾Ýá͜Ψ ¾ğÝΨ Ŏÿ¾ŎΨ Öá×¾ĞáΨ ĞŮΨ ƅłņŎΨ Ħł×ÿáņŎł¾ĘΨ
DJ sets.
composition,” he shares.
Mason
demonstrated
an
early
Mason spent his formative years in
inclination toward bridging electronic and
his family homestead in Newton, Virginia, and
traditional symphonic music, premiering his
studied at St. Christopher’s School, shaping
Ħğ×áłŎĦΨöĦłΨŮğŎÿáņăŶáłΨăğΨ̢̢̢̚ΨŨăŎÿΨŎÿáΨ}ÿĦáğăŭΨ
his interest in creative writing and music.
Symphony and subsequently presenting it with
“Growing up in a supportive but non-musical
the Atlanta Symphony. Renowned conductor
family showed me the value of creating art that
Robert Moody introduced this work along
communicates in a visceral and immediate way.
with Rusty Air in Carolina, garnering national
As much as I love the companionship of artists,
attention for Mason. In 2007, he gained further
I also love being around country people,” he
acclaim with Liquid Interface, a water symphony
relays.
commissioned
by
the
National
Symphony
Orchestra under Leonard Slatkin. Slatkin, a
Mason later enrolled in the joint
premier interpreter of Mason’s compositions,
program between Columbia University and
also debuted the Violin Concerto for Anne Akiko
Juilliard School, where he successfully obtained a
Meyers.
Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature and
a Master’s of Music degree in Music Composition.
Balancing traditional symphonic music
At the program, Mason received instruction in
with electronic dance music is unique, and
Ğœņă×Ψ×ĦĞĿĦņăŎăĦğΨöłĦĞΨğĦŎ¾ÖĘáΨƅ÷œłáņΨņœ×ÿΨ¾ņΨ
Mason manages to embrace the opportunities
John Corigliano, David Del Tredici, and Samuel
and challenges it presents. “Classical and club
Adler. He also explored playwriting under the
Ğœņă×Ψÿ¾ŧáΨŧ¾ņŎĘŮΨÝăƂáłáğŎΨלĘŎœłáņΨ¾ğÝΨŧáğœáņ͜Ψ
guidance of Arnold Weinstein.
but there’s an interesting similarity between
these music. Both explore astonishingly beautiful
In 2001, Mason moved to the Bay Area,
textures in a non-vocal manner, with the
where he pursued studies under the mentorship
intricate rhythms and harmonies taking center
of Edmund Campion at the Center for New
stage. While listeners are always piqued by my
Music and Audio Technologies at the University
integration of electronica within the orchestral,
of California, Berkeley. In 2008, Mason earned a
they often tell me how natural the combination
Ph.D. in composition. During this period, Mason
feels,” he informs.
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“It’s important to be as creative in how you
live your life and how you build your career
as you are in your art.”
Mason’s diverse experiences
also include a stint in Rome from 2003
to 2004, where he was honored with The
Rome Prize from the American Academy
in Rome. Mason also resided in Berlin in
2005 as a recipient of the Berlin Prize
from the American Academy in Berlin.
Mason opens up about how residing
ăğΨ ÖĦŎÿΨ ×ĦœğŎłăáņΨ ÿ¾ņΨ ăğƆœáğ×áÝΨ ÿăņΨ
composition style and overall artistic
approach. “Living in Rome for a full year
showed me how ancient and modern
cultures can coexist in a vibrant way. I’m
excited to return to Rome this spring to
hear my piano concerto performed by
the Rome Symphony.” A radiant glow
crosses through his face.
¦ăŎÿΨ Ğœņă×Ψ ƆĦŨăğ÷Ψ ŎÿłĦœ÷ÿΨ
his veins, Mason reveals the musical
ăğƆœáğ×áņΨŎÿ¾ŎΨÿ¾ŧáΨņÿ¾ĿáÝΨÿăņΨņŎŮĘáΨ¾ğÝΨ
approach to composition. “Jazz, techno,
psychedelic rock, and of course classical
music—they all mix in my music. Pink
Floyd’s ingenious integration of sound
design and concept-album narrative
informs my approach to symphonic
storytelling, while the harmonies and
łÿŮŎÿĞņΨ ĦöΨ đ¾ŶŶΨ ŎĦœ×ÿΨ đœņŎΨ ¾ÖĦœŎΨ áŧáłŮΨ
note I write. Techno’s mechanistic
pulsing
provides
a
provocative
complement to the warmth of the
orchestra, which I’ve been in love with
ņăğ×áΨƅłņŎΨÿá¾łăğ÷ΨŎÿáΨĞœņă×ΨĦöΨ9áĦł÷áΨ
Gershwin as a kid.”
Marking the beginning of a
longstanding partnership with the San
Francisco Symphony, Mason premiered
With
the Composition faculty at the San Francisco
Conservatory of Music.
collaborations
being
a
ņă÷ğăƅ×¾ğŎΨáĘáĞáğŎΨăğΨÿăņΨŨĦłĔ͜ΨöłĦĞΨöĦłĞăğ÷Ψ
partnerships with orchestras and joining
The B-Sides in 2009 under the baton
Mason’s association with the San
forces with electronic music artists, Mason
Francisco Symphony culminated in a Grammy
¾×ĔğĦŨĘáÝ÷áņΨŎÿ¾ŎΨŎÿăņΨÿ¾ņΨ¾ÝÝáÝΨƆ¾ŧĦłΨŎĦΨÿăņΨ
of
This
nomination for Best Orchestral Performance
work and creative expression. “Collaborating
collaboration continued with Tilson
in 2017, as the orchestra, led by Tilson Thomas,
elevates the creative experience for me,
Thomas conducting several of Mason’s
recorded three of his compositions during the
whether it is with musicians who are playing
works with the YouTube Symphony.
Beethoven & Bates Festival. Simultaneously,
my music, or creative partners such as a
The premier of Mothership at the
Mason received a nomination for Best
librettist.
Sydney Opera House in 2011, reaching
Contemporary Classical Composition for his
opera for The Metropolitan Opera based
an online audience of two million,
work, Alternative Energy, commissioned by
ĦğΨ ÿáΨ Ğ¾Ŷăğ÷Ψ ÝŧáğŎœłáņΨ ĦöΨ T¾ŧ¾ĘăáłΨ
ņĦĘăÝăƅáÝΨŎÿáΨŨĦłĔΨ¾ņΨĦğáΨĦöΨŎÿáΨĞĦņŎͺ
the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Mason
& Clay, a stunning novel about Jewish
performed
Michael
Tilson
orchestral
Thomas.
Currently,
I’m
composing
an
compositions
held the position of composer-in-residence
cartoonists in postwar New York.
by a living composer. In 2014, Mason
with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra from
opera has everything—love, war, immigrants
further expanded his impact by joining
2010 to 2015.
transforming American, and superheroes.”
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 83
This
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With every artist being unique in executing their
craft, Mason walks us through his creative process when
starting a new composition, unveiling his approach during
the initial stages. “Before any notes are written, I spend a lot
of time contemplating about the kind of piece that best suits
the orchestra, ensemble, or soloist. I’m drawn to narrative
forms, such as Alternative Energy (a symphony animating
moments of the history of energy) and Liquid Interface (a
water symphony). Once I have a concept in mind—kind of
like a ‘concept album’ of the psychedelic rockers—I get to
work.”
Mason
has
received
numerous
prestigious
awards, including:
2019 Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording
– The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs
2017 Musical America Composer of the Year
2012 18th Annual Heinz Award in the Arts and
Humanities
2008 Guggenheim Fellowship
2008 Van Cliburn American Composer Invitational First
Prize
2006 Creative Capital Award
2004 Rome Prize
2005 American Academy in Berlin Prize
Charles Ives Scholarship
American Academy of Arts and Letters Fellowship
Jacob Druckman Memorial Prize
from Aspen Music Festival
Tanglewood Music Center Fellowship
Looking back on his career, Mason opens up
¾ÖĦœŎΨŎÿáΨÿă÷ÿĘă÷ÿŎņΨĦłΨÝáƅğăğ÷ΨĞĦĞáğŎņΨŎÿ¾ŎΨÿ¾ŧáΨņÿ¾ĿáÝΨ
him as an artist. With all the accolades Mason has received,
he continues to remain humble, grounded, and grateful
for all the blessings. “A special highlight was composing
Mothership for the YouTube Symphony, which premiered
the piece at the Sydney Opera House to an online audience
of tens of millions. Another highlight was bringing my opera
The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs to San Francisco Opera this
fall, where it brought a huge number of new listeners. And
ƅğ¾ĘĘŮ͜Ψ ĿłĦÝœ×ăğ÷Ψ ¾ğΨ ¾ğăоŎáÝΨ ƅĘĞΨ ×¾ĘĘáÝΨ }ÿăĘÿ¾łĞĦğă¾Ψ
Fantastique: The Making of the Orchestra was a thrilling
way to bring my penchant for storytelling to the big screen.”
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As Mason forges ahead in his career,
he eagerly shares news of his ongoing projects
and forthcoming compositions that not only
bring him joy but also perpetuate his enduring
passion. “I’m thrilled about a recent project
öœņăğ÷Ψ¾ğăоŎáÝΨƅĘĞΨŨăŎÿΨ¾ΨĘăŧáΨĦł×ÿáņŎł¾Ψ×¾ĘĘáÝΨ
Philharmonia Fantastique: The Making of the
Orchestra, which composer John Williams
generously called ‘The greatest step forward
since Fantasia itself.’ This is a 25-minute
journey inside musical instruments featuring a
magical Sprite, and it was created with director
9¾łŮΨ ŮÝņŎłĦĞΨ ĦöΨ Wœ×¾ņƅĘĞΨ ¾ğÝΨ ¾ğăоŎĦłΨ RăĞΨ
Capobianco (Oscar-nominated for Ratatouille).
ÿáΨ ƅĘĞΨ ăņΨ ŎÿáΨ ÷¾ŎáŨ¾ŮΨ ŎĦΨ ¾ğΨ á×ĦņŮņŎáĞΨ ĦöΨ
educational
materials
at
SpritesWorld.org,
which brings the magic of the orchestra alive for
children across the country. Anyone interested
in supporting this hip educational endeavor
should check out SpritesWorld.org.”
Mason concludes his story with a
powerful message for individuals wishing to
follow in his footsteps. “It’s important to be
as creative in how you live your life and how
you build your career as you are in your art.
This has allowed me to open up new formats
in the ancient art form of symphonic music,
ăğŎá÷ł¾Ŏăğ÷ΨŎá×ÿğĦΨ¾ğÝΨƅĘĞΨăğŎĦΨŎÿáΨĦł×ÿáņŎł¾͛·
As Mason gears up for the next leg of
his musical journey, the symphonic scene is
ƅĘĘáÝΨŨăŎÿΨáŭ×ăŎáĞáğŎ͛Ψ¦ăŎÿΨÿăņΨ÷ăöŎΨöĦłΨĿœņÿăğ÷Ψ
boundaries and a keen understanding of how
tradition and modern vibes can blend together,
Mason’s upcoming musical adventures promise
to be a fresh and entertaining experience.
Each new tune carries a piece of his passion,
revealing his love and vulnerability. He not only
invites us to listen but challenges us to question,
evolve, and reimagine the epitome of orchestral
possibilities, hoping that his music resonates
with depth and authenticity for generations to
come.
Through his music, Mason Bates
has breathed life into his heart, explored the
profound depths of his soul, and cultivated
harmony with his audience.
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 91
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Strutting with Purpose:
The Sustainable Style of R’Bonney Gabriel
by 9áł¾ĘÝăğáΨ´ă¾Ę×ăŎ¾
culture
importance of time management to accomplish
enabled R’Bonney to have an open-minded
Surrounded
by a
diverse
ĞœĘŎăĿĘáΨŎÿăğ÷ņ͛ΨÿáΨĞĦņŎΨŧ¾Ęœ¾ÖĘáΨŎÿăğ÷ΨEΨĘá¾łğáÝΨ
perspective on life. Her school was a melting
outside of the classroom is that if you want to be
pot of diverse cultural backgrounds, and she
a designer, you have to merge your creative mind
established friendships with everyone. “My
ŨăŎÿΨ¾ΨÖœņăğáņņΨĞăğÝ͛ΨEŎΉņΨÝăƃלĘŎΨŎĦΨÖœăĘÝΨĦğΨđœņŎΨ
interests led me to diverse circles—playing
talent alone; it’s important to make connections
volleyball, rocking the clarinet and oboe in a
in the industry and learn from the ones who have
band, and contributing to a yearbook class.
áŭĿáłăáğ×á͛ΨEğΨĞŮΨŎÿłááΨÝáņă÷ğΨăğŎáłğņÿăĿņ͜ΨEΉŧáΨ
Growing up this way molded me into someone
ŨăŎğáņņáÝΨƅłņŎͺÿ¾ğÝΨÿĦŨΨŎĦΨłœğΨ¾ΨÖœņăğáņņ͛ΨöŎáłΨ
who embraces people for who they are, revealing
watching the fashion documentary, ƈáΨ łœáΨ
the beauty of diverse individuals and cultures,”
Cost͜ΨEΨĘá¾łğáÝΨ¾ΨĘĦŎΨ¾ÖĦœŎΨŎÿáΨăņņœáΨĦöΨĿĦĘĘœŎăĦğΨ
she shares.
and unethical clothing manufacturing and felt a
duty as a young designer to make an impact on
During her high school years, R’Bonney
the future of fashion,” she briefs.
œğ×ĦŧáłáÝΨ ÿáłΨ Ɔ¾ăłΨ öĦłΨ ö¾ņÿăĦğΨ Ýáņă÷ğ͛Ψ áņĿăŎáΨ
the relatively modest size of the local fashion
R’Bonney had the privilege of working
scene, it pulsed with vitality and there were
¾ņΨ ¾Ψ ņáŨăğ÷Ψ ăğņŎłœ×ŎĦłΨ öĦłΨ ¾Ψ ğĦğͺĿłĦƅŎΨ Ũÿă×ÿΨ
talented creatives bursting with character.
impacted her perspective on the fashion
R’Bonney was able to feature her designs at three
ăğÝœņŎłŮ͛Ψ ΆEΨ ÷ĦŎΨ ăğŧĦĘŧáÝΨ ăğΨ ¾Ψ ĘĦ×¾ĘΨ ğĦğͺĿłĦƅŎΨ
fashion shows which opened doors for her at the
Ýáņă÷ğΨ ÿĦœņáͽ]¾÷ĿăáņΨ ϛΨ }á¾×Ħ×Ĕņ͛Ψ EΨ ¾ĘŨ¾ŮņΨ
Houston Fashion Network. “This opportunity
wanted to use my passion for design for the
ÿáĘĿáÝΨĘ¾ğÝΨĞŮΨƅłņŎΨÝáņă÷ğΨăğŎáłğņÿăĿ͛ΨEΨņŎ¾łŎáÝΨ
÷łá¾ŎáłΨ÷ĦĦÝΨĦöΨŎÿáΨŨĦłĘÝ͛Ψ¦ÿáğΨEΨöĦœğÝΨ]¾÷Ŀăáņ͜Ψ
my senior year of high school with a local
ăŎΨöáĘŎΨĘăĔáΨŎÿáΨ¾ğņŨáłΨEΨŨ¾ņΨņá¾ł×ÿăğ÷ΨöĦł͜Ψ¾ğÝΨEΨ
ŨĦĞáğΉņΨ Ũá¾łΨ Ýáņă÷ğáł͛Ψ EΨ ĔğáŨΨ öłĦĞΨ ĞŮΨ ƅłņŎΨ
ăĞĞáÝă¾ŎáĘŮΨ÷ĦŎΨÿăłáÝΨĦğΨŎÿáΨņĿĦŎΨÝœłăğ÷ΨĞŮΨƅłņŎΨ
year of picking up sewing and designing that
ŧăņăŎΨ Ŏÿáłá͛Ψ EΨ Ũ¾ņΨ ÿ¾ĿĿŮΨ ŎĦΨ ÿ¾ŧáΨ öĦœğÝΨ ¾Ψ Ýáņă÷ğΨ
ăŎΨ Ũ¾ņΨ ŎÿáΨ ăğÝœņŎłŮΨ EΨ Ũ¾ğŎáÝΨ ŎĦΨ ŨĦłĔΨ ăğ͜Ψ ¾ğÝΨ EΨ
house committed to sustainability by designing
dreamed of somehow merging my passion with
collections from upcycled/donated material.
giving back to society in some way,” she relays.
EΨ ¾ĘņĦΨ Öá×¾ĞáΨ ŎÿáΨ Ęá¾ÝΨ ņáŨăğ÷Ψ ăğņŎłœ×ŎĦłΨ öĦłΨ
ŨĦĞáğΨ ŨÿĦΨ ÿ¾ŧáΨ ņœłŧăŧáÝΨ ÿœĞ¾ğΨ Ŏł¾ƃ×Ĕăğ÷Ψ
R’Bonney graduated from the University
¾ğÝΨ ÝĦĞáņŎă×Ψ ŧăĦĘáğ×á͛Ψ ÿăņΨ ĿĦņăŎăĦğΨ öœĘƅĘĘáÝΨ
of North Texas with a bachelor’s degree in
me much more than just designing beautiful
8¾ņÿăĦğΨ áņă÷ğ͜ΨĞăğĦłăğ÷ΨăğΨƅÖáłņ͛ΨΆÿáΨö¾ņÿăĦğΨ
×ĘĦŎÿăğ÷͜Ψ¾ğÝΨEΨÖáĘăáŧáΨĦœłΨŎ¾ĘáğŎņΨ¾ğÝΨÖĘáņņăğ÷ņΨ
Ýáņă÷ğΨĿłĦ÷ł¾ĞΨŨ¾ņΨŧáłŮΨăğŎáğņá͛ΨEΨŨĦœĘÝΨņĿáğÝΨ
ăğΨĘăöáΨ ¾łáΨ Ğá¾ğŎΨŎĦΨ ÖáΨ ņÿ¾łáÝΨŨăŎÿΨŎÿáΨŨĦłĘÝ͛Ψ EΨ
countless hours pouring myself into a design
learned about many women’s traumatic personal
ĿłĦđá×ŎΨ¾ğÝΨĿœĘĘáÝΨоğŮΨ¾ĘĘͺğă÷ÿŎáłņ͛ΨEΨ÷¾ŧáΨ¾Ũ¾ŮΨ
experiences, which taught me the importance
a lot of my free time and social life to complete
of helping others, being an open ear, and how
my projects. School taught me dedication on a
ŨáΨ ĞœņŎΨ ×ĦğŎăğœáΨ ŎÿáΨ ƅ÷ÿŎΨ ¾÷¾ăğņŎΨ ÿœĞ¾ğΨ
deeper level, and the deadlines showed me the
Ŏł¾ƃ×Ĕăğ÷͜·ΨņÿáΨáŭĿłáņņáņ͛
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 97
LUXURY TRENDING
“Failures are wins too,
if you learn from them.”
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 99
LUXURY TRENDING
100 • PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA •
Embracing her true calling,
she launched her brand, R’Bonney Nola,
and used her platform to encourage the
industry to be more environmentally
conscious and ethical by making clothing
from
recycled/sustainable
materials.
“This allows me to raise awareness on
the issue of mass pollution in the textile
industry and also provide people with
options to wear sustainable and quality
clothing from my brand,” she informs.
As she hustled to build her
brand, R’Bonney found herself drawn
to the allure of the beauty pageant
ŨĦłĘÝ͛Ψ Ά¦ÿáğΨ EΨ ƅłņŎΨ ņŎ¾łŎáÝ͜Ψ ŎÿáΨ ÷Ħ¾ĘΨ
was to challenge myself and become
better at communicating and speaking
Öá×¾œņáΨEΨŨ¾ņΨŧáłŮΨņÿŮ͛ΨöŎáłΨÖá×ĦĞăğ÷Ψ
ŎÿáΨ ƅłņŎΨ łœğğáłͺœĿΨ öĦłΨ ]ăņņΨ áŭ¾ņΨ
̛̛̙̚͜Ψ EΨ ÝáŧáĘĦĿáÝΨ ŎÿáΨ ΈĿ¾÷á¾ğŎΨ Öœ÷ΉΨ
which urged me to compete again. Miss
Universe was always the big dream goal,
¾ğÝΨŎÿáΨņŎłĦğ÷áłΨEΨöáĘŎΨ¾ÖĦœŎΨăŎ͜ΨŎÿáΨĞĦłáΨ
EΨ Ŏł¾ăğáÝ͛ΨöŎáłΨ ĿĘ¾×ăğ÷Ψ ̚ņŎΨ łœğğáłΨ œĿΨ ̜Ψ
ŎăĞáņΨ ăğΨ ¾Ψ łĦŨ͜Ψ EΨ ƅğ¾ĘĘŮΨ ŨĦğΨ ĞŮΨ ņŎ¾ŎáΨ
ŎăŎĘá͜Ψ ]ăņņΨ áŭ¾ņ͜Ψ ŎÿáğΨ ̜Ψ ĞĦğŎÿņΨ Ę¾Ŏáł͜Ψ
]ăņņΨ ͜Ψ ŎÿáğΨ ̜Ψ ĞĦğŎÿņΨ Ę¾Ŏáł͜Ψ ]ăņņΨ
Universe,” she reveals.
ņΨŎÿáΨŨăğğáłΨĦöΨ]ăņņΨğăŧáłņáΨ
2022,
R’Bonney
shares
her
initial
reaction and the emotions she felt after
ÿáłΨğ¾ĞáΨŨ¾ņΨ¾ğğĦœğ×áÝ͛ΨΆEΨłáĞáĞÖáłΨ
the crowd being so loud in the arena
Ŏÿ¾ŎΨ EΨ ×ĦœĘÝΨ Ö¾łáĘŮΨ ÿá¾łΨ ŎÿáΨ ÿĦņŎΨ
ĿłĦ×Ę¾ăĞăğ÷Ψ ĞŮΨ ğ¾ĞáΨ ¾ņΨ ŎÿáΨ Ũăğğáł͛Ψ EΨ
was in complete shock that my dreams
ŨáłáΨ ×ĦĞăğ÷Ψ Ŏłœá͛Ψ EŎΨ Ũ¾ņΨ ŎÿáΨ ĞĦņŎΨ
áœĿÿĦłă×ΨöááĘăğ÷ΨEΉŧáΨáŧáłΨöáĘŎΨăğΨĞŮΨĘăöá͛Ψ
EŎΨŨ¾ņΨņĦΨáĞĦŎăĦğ¾ĘΨöĦłΨĞá͜Ψ¾ğÝΨEΨŨăņÿΨEΨ
×ĦœĘÝΨ÷ĦΨÖ¾×ĔΨ¾ğÝΨöááĘΨăŎΨ¾÷¾ăğ͛ΨEΨŨ¾ğŎáÝΨ
ņΨŎÿáΨņăŭŎÿΨĞăŭáÝͺÿáłăŎ¾÷áΨŨĦоğΨ
]ăņņΨ ğăŧáłņáΨ ăņΨ ¾Ψ ÿœ÷áΨ ÿĦğĦł͜Ψ ¾ğÝΨ EΨ ÿĦĿáΨ
that feeling to linger, but everything
to win the Miss Universe title, she hopes to
this inspires others to embrace their unique
ÿ¾ĿĿáğáÝΨ ņĦΨ ö¾ņŎ͜Ψ ¾ğÝΨ EΨ Ũ¾ņΨ ŨÿăņĔáÝΨ
inspire individuals with diverse backgrounds
לĘŎœłá͛ΨEΨÿĦĿáΨŎÿăņΨĦĿáğņΨŎÿáΨÝĦĦłΨöĦłΨĞĦłáΨ
¾Ũ¾ŮΨŎĦΨ¾ğΨĦƃ×ă¾ĘΨƅłņŎΨĿÿĦŎĦņÿĦĦŎ͜ΨĦğͺ
ŎĦΨ ĿœłņœáΨ ŎÿáăłΨ Ýłá¾Ğņ͛Ψ ΆEΨ ÖáĘăáŧáΨ Öáăğ÷Ψ
representation in pageantry and shows
stage photos with sponsors, family, and
Öăł¾×ă¾ĘΨăņΨŨÿ¾ŎΨоĔáņΨĞáΨœğăŁœá͜Ψ¾ğÝΨEΨŨ¾ņΨ
others that just because you may not have
friends, a press conference, and then an
taught to always embrace and champion what
seen someone who looks like you achieve
after-party. What an incredible memory
оĔáņΨ ĞáΨ ÝăƂáłáğŎ͛Ψ áăğ÷Ψ ŎÿáΨ ƅłņŎΨ 8ăĘăĿăğ¾Ψ
what you want doesn’t mean you can’t be the
EΨŨăĘĘΨÿĦĘÝΨĦğΨŎĦΨöĦłáŧáł͛·
Ğáłă×¾ğΨ ŎĦΨ ŨăğΨ ]ăņņΨ áŭ¾ņ͜Ψ ]ăņņΨ ͜Ψ ¾ğÝΨ
ƅłņŎΨĦğáΨŎĦΨÝĦΨņĦ͛·
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 103
ΆƈáΨĞĦņŎΨŧ¾Ęœ¾ÖĘáΨŎÿăğ÷Ψ
EΨĘá¾łğáÝΨĦœŎņăÝáΨĦöΨŎÿáΨ
×Ę¾ņņłĦĦĞΨăņΨŎÿ¾ŎΨăöΨŮĦœΨ
Ũ¾ğŎΨŎĦΨÖáΨ¾ΨÝáņă÷ğáł͜Ψ
ŮĦœΨÿ¾ŧáΨŎĦΨĞáł÷áΨŮĦœłΨ
׳á¾ŎăŧáΨĞăğÝΨŨăŎÿΨ¾Ψ
ÖœņăğáņņΨĞăğÝ͛·
LUXURY TRENDING
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 105
LUXURY TRENDING
ņΨ ŎÿáΨ ƅłņŎΨ ]ăņņΨ Ψ ĦöΨ 8ăĘăĿăğĦΨ Ýáņ×áğŎ͜Ψ ΉĦğğáŮΨ ņÿ¾łáņΨ ÿáłΨ ņáğŎăĞáğŎņΨ
łá÷¾łÝăğ÷Ψ ŎÿáΨ ĿłĦöĦœğÝΨ ×œĘŎœł¾ĘΨ ņă÷ğăƅ×¾ğ×áΨ ĦöΨ ÿáłΨ ŧă×ŎĦłŮΨ ¾ğÝΨ ŎÿáΨ ăğņĿăł¾ŎăĦğΨ
ņÿáΨ ŨăņÿáņΨ ŎĦΨ ăĞĿ¾łŎ͛Ψ ΆEΨ öááĘΨ ¾ğΨ ăĞĞáğņáΨ ņáğņáΨ ĦöΨ ĿłăÝáΨ ¾ğÝΨ ĿłĦöĦœğÝΨ ÿĦğĦłΨ ăğΨ
łáĿłáņáğŎăğ÷ΨĞŮΨÖăłŎÿĿĘ¾×á͜ΨAĦœņŎĦğ͜Ψáŭ¾ņ͛Ψ]ŮΨÿá¾łŎΨņŨáĘĘņΨŨăŎÿΨđĦŮΨ¾ņΨEΨ×¾łłŮΨĦğΨĞŮΨ
ö¾ŎÿáłΉņΨĘá÷¾×ŮΨ ĦöΨ Ğă÷ł¾Ŏăğ÷Ψ ŎĦΨĞáłă×¾Ψ ¾ğÝΨ Ŀœłņœăğ÷Ψ ŎÿáΨĞáłă×¾ğΨ Ýłá¾Ğ͜Ψ ¾ĘĘΨŨÿăĘáΨ
proudly showcasing my father’s Filipino heritage and my mother’s Texan roots. My
Ŀ¾łáğŎņΨÿ¾ŧáΨ ¾ĘŨ¾ŮņΨ ÖááğΨ ĞŮΨ Öă÷÷áņŎΨ ăğņĿăł¾ŎăĦğ͛Ψ EΨ ŨĦłĔΨÿ¾łÝΨ ŎĦΨ Ğ¾ĔáΨ ŎÿáĞΨ ĿłĦœÝ͜Ψ
¾ğÝΨăŎΉņΨĞŮΨŨ¾ŮΨĦöΨņÿĦŨăğ÷ΨŎÿáĞΨ÷ł¾ŎăŎœÝáΨöĦłΨŎÿáΨĘăöáΨŎÿáŮΨÿ¾ŧáΨĿłĦŧăÝáÝΨöĦłΨĞá͛ΨEΨ¾ĞΨ
motivated to continue their legacy of small, humble beginnings and hard work. Winning
Miss Universe 2022 wasn’t just a personal triumph; it symbolized a joint victory for
ĞŮΨ ö¾ĞăĘŮ͜Ψ ĞŮΨÿĦĞáŎĦŨğ͜Ψ ¾ğÝΨŎÿáΨ łă×ÿΨ 8ăĘăĿăğĦΨĞáłă×¾ğΨ ×œĘŎœłá͛Ψ EΨÿĦĿáΨ ĞŮΨŧă×ŎĦłŮΨ
encourages individuals to embrace their true selves and serves as a catalyst for greater
ĦĿĿĦłŎœğăŎăáņΨöĦłΨņă¾ğΨĞáłă×¾ğņΨăğΨĦœłΨ×ĦœğŎłŮ͛·ΨÿáΨÖá¾ĞņΨŨăŎÿΨĿłăÝá͛
ł¾×ăğ÷Ψ Ö¾×ĔΨ ŎĦΨ ÿáłΨ łĦĦŎņ͜Ψ ΉĦğğáŮΨ ƅğÝņΨ ăğņĿăł¾ŎăĦğΨ ăğΨ ÿáłΨ }ÿăĘăĿĿăğáΨ
ÿáłăŎ¾÷á͛ΨΆEΨ÷łáŨΨœĿΨŧăņăŎăğ÷ΨŎÿáΨ}ÿăĘăĿĿăğáņΨŨăŎÿΨĞŮΨö¾ĞăĘŮ͛ΨEŎΨ÷¾ŧáΨĞáΨŎÿáΨĦœŎĘĦĦĔΨĦğΨĘăöáΨ
ŎĦΨ¾ĘŨ¾ŮņΨŨĦłĔΨÿ¾łÝ͜ΨоĔáΨņĦĞáŎÿăğ÷ΨĦœŎΨĦöΨğĦŎÿăğ÷͜Ψ¾ğÝΨÖáΨöĦłŎœğ¾ŎáΨöĦłΨáŧáłŮŎÿăğ÷ΨEΨ
ÿ¾ŧá͛ΨÿáņáΨáŭĿáłăáğ×áņΨÿ¾ŧáΨņÿ¾ĿáÝΨŨÿĦΨEΨ¾ĞΨŎĦݾŮ͜Ψ¾ğÝΨEΨöááĘΨăŎΉņΨņĦΨăĞĿĦłŎ¾ğŎΨŎĦΨĿ¾ŮΨ
homage to my roots and always carry on the traditions of my ancestors and family, who
ÿ¾ŧáΨĿ¾ŧáÝΨŎÿáΨŨ¾ŮΨöĦłΨŎÿáΨÖᾜŎăöœĘΨĘăöáΨEΨĘăŧáΨŎĦݾŮ͛ΨÿăņΨăņΨŨÿ¾ŎΨ÷ăŧáņΨĞáΨĞĦŎăŧ¾ŎăĦğΨŎĦΨ
keep going,” she conveys.
öŎáłΨŨăğğăğ÷Ψ]ăņņΨğăŧáłņáΨ̛̛̛̙͜ΨΉĦğğáŮΨÿ¾ÝΨŎÿáΨŨĦğÝáłöœĘΨĦĿĿĦłŎœğăŎŮΨĦöΨ
visiting the Philippines to celebrate her milestones with her father’s homeland, which
brought pure joy to her heart. “We were able to hand out meals and provide school
ņœĿĿĘăáņΨöĦłΨ¾ĘĘΨŎÿáΨ×ÿăĘÝłáğΨŎÿ¾ŎΨĘăŧáÝΨĦğΨŎÿáΨņ¾ĞáΨņŎłááŎΨŨÿáłáΨĞŮΨö¾ŎÿáłΨĘăŧáÝ͛ΨEΨĘĦŧáÝΨ
ņááăğ÷Ψö¾ĞăĘă¾łΨö¾×áņ͛ΨEΨņĿáğŎΨоğŮΨņœĞĞáłΨݾŮņΨĿĘ¾Ůăğ÷ΨĦğΨŎÿăņΨņŎłááŎΨ¾ņΨ¾Ψ×ÿăĘÝ͛Ψ8łĦĞΨ
walking to buy pandesalΨăğΨŎÿáΨĞĦłğăğ÷͜ΨĿĘ¾Ůăğ÷ΨăğΨŎÿáΨł¾ăğΨŨÿáğΨăŎΨƆĦĦÝáÝ͜ΨŨ¾Ŏ×ÿăğ÷ΨŎÿáΨ
ƅáņŎ¾ΨĿ¾ł¾Ýá͜Ψ¾ğÝΨņŨá¾Ŏăğ÷ΨăğΨŎÿáΨÿá¾ŎΨĿĘ¾Ůăğ÷ΨtongitsΨĦğΨŎÿáΨĿĘ¾ņŎă×ΨŎ¾ÖĘáņ͛ΨEΨłáĞáĞÖáłΨ
ŎÿáΨŨ¾łĞŎÿΨ¾ğÝΨĔăğÝğáņņΨĦöΨŎÿáΨğáă÷ÿÖĦłņ͛ΨÿăņΨņŎłááŎΨņÿĦŨáÝΨĞáΨÿĦŨΨÝăƂáłáğŎΨĞŮΨĘăöáΨ
Ũ¾ņΨăğΨĞáłă×¾Ψ¾ğÝΨŎ¾œ÷ÿŎΨĞáΨÿĦŨΨŎĦΨÖáΨ÷ł¾ŎáöœĘΨöĦłΨáŧáłŮŎÿăğ÷ΨEΨÿ¾ŧá͛ΨĦΨÖáΨ¾ÖĘáΨŎĦΨ
visit again after everything and give back to a place so close to my heart was one of the
biggest blessings as Miss Universe.” She smiles.
One of the memorable moments from R’Bonney’s time as Miss Universe that
ĘáöŎΨ¾ΨĘ¾ņŎăğ÷ΨăĞĿ¾×ŎΨĦğΨÿáłΨŨ¾ņΨŨÿáğΨņÿáΨŧăņăŎáÝΨ¾ΨŧĦ×¾ŎăĦğ¾ĘΨņ×ÿĦĦĘΨăğΨĦœŎÿΨöłă×¾͛Ψ
She had the opportunity to collaborate with students in the sewing classroom, actively
participating in sewing sessions alongside them. They shared their distinct sewing
Ŏá×ÿğăŁœáņΨŨăŎÿΨÿáł͜ΨŨÿăĘáΨņÿáΨ¾ņņăņŎáÝΨŎÿáĞΨăğΨ×ĦĞĿĘáŎăğ÷ΨŎÿáăłΨĿłĦđá×Ŏņ͛ΨΆEŎΨÖá×¾ĞáΨ
¾Ψłá×ăĿłĦ×¾ĘΨĘá¾łğăğ÷ΨáŭĿáłăáğ×áΨŨÿáłáΨŎÿáŮΨăĞĿ¾łŎáÝΨŎÿáăłΨĔğĦŨĘáÝ÷á͜Ψ¾ğÝΨE͜ΨăğΨŎœłğ͜Ψ
ņÿ¾łáÝΨŨÿ¾ŎΨEΨĔğáŨ͛ΨÿăņΨáŭ×ÿ¾ğ÷áΨĦöΨăğöĦłĞ¾ŎăĦğΨŨ¾ņΨŎłœĘŮΨо÷ă×¾ĘΨ¾ğÝΨĞá¾ğăğ÷öœĘ͛Ψ
ÿáΨ×ÿăĘÝłáğΨŨáłáΨăğ׳áÝăÖĘŮΨ×ÿ¾łĞăğ÷͜ΨÖłă÷ÿŎ͜Ψ¾ğÝΨņŨááŎ͜Ψ¾ğÝΨEΨŨăĘĘΨöĦłáŧáłΨ×ÿáłăņÿΨ
the memories of our time together. Given my deep passion for fostering educational
opportunities in the arts, this experience was an absolute dream come true,” she
mentions.
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 107
LUXURY TRENDING
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 109
LUXURY TRENDING
110 • PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA •
“Don’t let other
people’s opinions
ÝáƄğáΨŨÿĦΨŮĦœΨ¾łá͛·
LUXURY TRENDING
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 113
LUXURY TRENDING
Being in the limelight invites
1. Always trust your gut. I’ve made design decisions
public scrutiny, yet R’Bonney remained
where I decided to listen to or trust others, and the
humble and grounded so she could manage
product didn’t do or sell well. I’ve learned to trust my
the expectations and responsibilities that
own creative instincts.
came with being a titleholder. “During my
time as Miss Universe, I always reminded
2. ĦğΉŎΨĘáŎΨĦŎÿáłΨĿáĦĿĘáΉņΨĦĿăğăĦğņΨÝáƅğáΨŨÿĦΨŮĦœΨ¾łá͛Ψ
myself that I only have one short year to do
This is something I learned throughout my pageant
the best I can do at this job. Each time I felt
đĦœłğáŮ͛Ψ EΨ ŎłăáÝΨ ŎĦΨ ¾×ŎΨ Ŀáłöá×ŎĘŮ͜Ψ ņĿá¾ĔΨ ÝăƂáłáğŎĘŮ͜Ψ ¾ğÝΨ
tired or overwhelmed, this thought kept me
áŧáğΨÝłáņņΨăğΨ¾ΨÝăƂáłáğŎΨņŎŮĘá͜ΨÖœŎΨŎÿăņΨĘĦŨáłáÝΨĞŮΨņáĘöͺ
going. Being Miss Universe was my highest
esteem.
honor, and I felt responsible for giving my
very best and proudly representing my
3. Surround yourself with positive and like-minded
family, friends, culture, fans, and everyone
people. I wouldn’t be where I am without my inner
with goals and dreams who looked up to
×ăł×Ęá͛ΨEΉŧáΨĘá¾łğáÝΨÿĦŨΨăğƆœáğŎă¾ĘΨŎÿáŮΨ×¾ğΨÖáΨăğΨŮĦœłΨ
me. As for public scrutiny, the cyberbullying
everyday life. My coaches and mentors have reframed
and hate comments I receive online can be
my mindset to believe we should never put a limit on
pretty harsh and get me down sometimes,
ourselves, and learning that has opened up a world of
yet I try my best to ignore it. I’ve realized
opportunities that has changed my life.
that no matter what I do, I just can’t please
everyone. There will always be people who
4. Not every opportunity is a good one. I used to think
support me and others who don’t want to
that everything that came my way should be pursued
see me succeed. I just remind myself that
or chased. Now, I’ve learned to think thoroughly before
my self-worth does not come from other
moving forward or making decisions—I try to be
people’s opinions about me,” she discloses.
intentional in my actions.
imparts
5. Failures are wins too, if you learn from them. I was
ƅŧáΨ ăğŧ¾Ęœ¾ÖĘáΨ ĘáņņĦğņΨ ņÿáΨ ÷¾łğáłáÝΨ ăğΨ
rejected from my dream scholarship to Paris in college
the aftermath of winning Miss Universe,
when I thought I’d win it, but in the end I learned that
shedding light on the transformative path
it redirected me to not only work harder but that I also
she undertook. These insights not only
needed to elevate my designs even more. I remember
łáƆá×ŎΨÿáłΨĿáłņĦğ¾ĘΨ÷łĦŨŎÿΨÖœŎΨ¾ĘņĦΨņáłŧáΨ¾ņΨ
having a weak interview for the scholarship, and it
universal takeaways for aspiring individuals
taught me that I need to be able to walk into a room and
navigating a similar path.
communicate and know who I am.
R’Bonney
graciously
As a model, beauty queen, and designer, R’Bonney balances her creative pursuits with her
responsibilities as Miss Universe 2022. “Pageantry has a powerful way of making an impact and using your
voice to help solve problems we see in the world. In the same way, sustainable fashion can impact our
world as well, and it addresses the problems of pollution and unethical practices in the fashion industry.
Even though it’s a balancing act, they’ve gone hand in hand during my reign. The Miss Universe team was
aware of my personal and career goals, and worked hard to give me opportunities that were related to my
ăğŎáłáņŎņ͛ΨÿăņΨ¾ĘĘĦŨáÝΨĞáΨŎĦΨÝĦΨоğŮΨÝăƂáłáğŎΨŎÿăğ÷ņΨăğΨŎÿáΨŨĦłĘÝΨĦöΨĞĦÝáĘăğ÷͜Ψö¾ņÿăĦğΨÝáņă÷ğ͜Ψ¾ğÝΨ]ăņņΨ
Universe.” She smiles.
114 • PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA •
“Hate comments I
receive online can be
pretty harsh and get me
down sometimes, yet I
try my best to ignore it. I
just remind myself that
my self-worth does not
come from other people’s
opinions about me.”
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 117
LUXURY TRENDING
R’Bonney continues to leverage her platform by raising
awareness and promoting sustainability in the fashion industry.
Her recent launch of ƈáΨĦņņΨĘ¾ŶáłΨĦĘĘá×ŎăĦğΨunder her brand was
spearheaded during her stint at Miss Universe 2022. “This collection
consists of 100 one-of-a-kind blazers for women made from 100%
recycled/pre-loved garments. I designed them with the intention
öĦłΨŨĦĞáğΨŎĦΨöááĘΨœğăŁœá͜Ψ×ĦğƅÝáğŎ͜Ψ¾ğÝΨöááĘΨĘăĔáΨ¾ΨÖĦņņΨŎÿ¾ŎΨ×¾ğΨ
ÿ¾ğÝĘáΨ¾ğŮŎÿăğ÷ΨăğΨĘăöá͛ΨEΨÝłá¾ĞΨĦöΨá×ĦͺöłăáğÝĘŮΨö¾ņÿăĦğΨÖáăğ÷ΨŎÿáΨ
ğáŨΨ ğĦłĞ¾ĘΨ in fashion. This represents my life’s mission, and it
doesn’t conclude with relinquishing the crown. I am committed to
persistently developing my fashion brand to emerge as a prominent
advocate for sustainability within the fashion industry.”
R’Bonney enthusiastically divulges the aspects of being
a fashion designer that resonate most profoundly with her.
$ĞÖł¾×ăğ÷Ψ ŎÿáΨ ×łá¾ŎăŧáΨ đĦœłğáŮ͜Ψ ņÿáΨ ƅğÝņΨ đĦŮΨ ăğΨ Öłăğ÷ăğ÷Ψ ÿáłΨ
visions to life through innovative designs and craftsmanship. The
process of translating inspiration into tangible garments allows her
to weave stories and express herself in a unique and organic way.
ΆEΨĘĦŧáΨŎÿáΨÝáņă÷ğΨĿłĦ×áņņΨ¾ğÝΨđœņŎΨņáŨăğ÷ΨăğΨĞŮΨÿĦĞáΨņŎœÝăĦ͞ΨăŎΉņΨ
ŧáłŮΨĞáÝăŎ¾ŎăŧáΨöĦłΨĞá͛ΨEΨœņœ¾ĘĘŮΨÖá÷ăğΨŨăŎÿΨŎÿáΨö¾Öłă×ΨĦöΨ¾Ψ÷¾łĞáğŎΨEΨ
want to upcycle and derive ideas from there. The material/garment
¾ĘŨ¾ŮņΨņĿ¾łĔņΨĞŮΨăо÷ăğ¾ŎăĦğΨĦöΨŨÿ¾ŎΨEΨŨ¾ğŎΨŎĦΨ׳á¾ŎáΨöłĦĞΨăŎ͛ΨEΨ¾ĘņĦΨ
draw inspiration from vintage clothing and textures in nature, and
áğŧăņăĦğΨÝăƂáłáğŎΨņÿ¾ĿáņΨ¾ğÝΨ¾ğ÷ĘáņΨĦğΨŎÿáΨÖĦÝŮ͛Ψ8ăğÝăğ÷ΨŎăĞáΨŎĦΨ
do this with my hectic schedule is always refreshing.”
The constant interplay of trends, styles, and cultural
ăğƆœáğ×áņΨ×ÿ¾ĘĘáğ÷áņΨΉĦğğáŮΨŎĦΨņŎ¾ŮΨ¾ŎΨŎÿáΨöĦłáöłĦğŎΨĦöΨ׳á¾ŎăŧăŎŮΨ
and originality. The evolving industry fuels her passion and drives
her to explore new avenues, pushing the boundaries of conventional
fashion.
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 119
LUXURY TRENDING
Beyond expressing her creativity, R’Bonney cherishes
the opportunity to make a positive impact through her work,
promoting sustainability and inclusivity within the industry. This
commitment to social responsibility adds depth and purpose to
her creative pursuits, reinforcing her belief in the transformative
power of fashion beyond its aesthetic appeal.
R’Bonney concludes her story with a powerful message.
“My favorite quote and advice is ‘If not now, then when?’ It is the
saying I grew up hearing from my father, and I sell t-shirts with
the saying in my sustainable fashion line, R’Bonney Nola. This is
to inspire every single person who wears them and to not wait on
their dreams. It has also taught me to always take action with goals
ăĞĞáÝă¾ŎáĘŮΨ¾ğÝΨğáŧáłΨĿœŎΨăŎΨĦƂΨœğŎăĘΨŎĦĞĦłłĦŨ͛Ψá×¾œņáΨŎĦĞĦłłĦŨΨ
can turn into the next day, and then the next day, and then maybe
never happen. I hope this is a constant reminder for others to never
procrastinate on the things we want in life. We should always hold
ourselves accountable to take action now.”
Leading the way, R’Bonney is set on forging ahead
with the growth of her sustainable fashion brand, advancing her
modeling career, and dedicating herself to the education and
inspiration of young girls and women through sewing workshops
and motivational speeches. This pursuit means juggling her time
between the bustling streets of New York and the vibrant setting of
Manila, Philippines.
Whether she’s gracefully strutting down the pageant
catwalk or passionately immersed in designing sustainable
clothing, R’Bonney Gabriel spells life with creativity, style, and
purpose. Through her initiatives, she not only showcases her
creative mastery but also champions a vision of fashion that aligns
with environmental responsibility.
120 • PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA •
LUXURY TRENDING
Style is Confidence
by Heide VanDoren Betz
Jad recalls a carefree and easy childhood
EΨ łá×¾ĘĘΨ ĦğáΨ áŧáğŎΨ ŨÿáğΨ ņÿáΨ ÖłĦœ÷ÿŎΨ ĞáΨ ŨăŎÿΨ
with many positive, joyful moments: “Living in two
ÿáł͞Ψ ŎÿăņΨ ăо÷áΨ ņŎ¾ŮáÝΨ ăğΨ ĞŮΨ ĞăğÝ͛Ψ 8ăłņŎΨ EΨ ņ¾ŨΨ
ÝăƂáłáğŎΨĿĘ¾×áņΨ¾ŎΨ¾ΨŮĦœğ÷Ψ¾÷áΨоÝáΨĞáΨŨÿĦΨEΨ¾ĞΨ
ŎÿáņáΨ ÖĘ¾×ĔΨ ƅ÷œłăğáΨ ņăĘÿĦœáŎŎáņͽĘĦŎņΨ ĦöΨ ŎÿáĞ͜Ψ ¾ĘĘΨ
today.” When he was 13 (1996), the family moved to
Atlanta, Georgia. The parents believed this would
be best for the brothers education. Jad later moved
to San Francisco to study fashion design, where
he received a degree from the Academy of Art
University in San Francisco. Both during and after
ŎÿáΨ ņ¾Ğáͽ¾ĿĿá¾łΨ ĦğáΨ ¾öŎáłΨ ŎÿáΨ ĦŎÿáł͛Ψ ÿáğ͜Ψ ¾ĘĘΨ
ĦöΨ ¾Ψ ņœÝÝáğ͜Ψ ŎÿáΨ ¾Ö¾Ů¾ņΨ ×¾ĞáΨ ĦƂ͜Ψ ¾ğÝΨ ŎÿáΨ ĞĦņŎΨ
gorgeous gowns, stilettos, jewels, hair, and makeœĿΨ¾ĿĿá¾łáÝΨáŧáłŮŨÿáłá͛ΨEΨŨ¾ņΨĞáņĞáłăŶáÝ͛ΨEΨŎÿáğΨ
ĔğáŨΨEΨŨ¾ğŎáÝΨŎĦΨÖá×ĦĞáΨ¾Ψö¾ņÿăĦğΨÝáņă÷ğáł͛
his studies, he worked for several luxury fashion
houses in New York, San Francisco, and Los
HB: Did your family support this career choice?
Angeles. Within this period, he was not only sent
JR: To be honest, not at the beginning, but it didn’t
on collaborative global assignments but also able
take long for both my parents to help me set my
to approach the heart of his profession and master
the artistry of bridal and evening wear.
Today, Jad Racha is a highly sought-after
couture designer whose creations appear at Gala
education and career goals.
HB: You had some formal training at the Academy
of Art University; how much did formal training
Openings throughout the year.
ăğƆœáğ×áΨŮĦœłΨÝáņă÷ğņ͢
Heide VanDoren Betz: When did you come to San
concept of design and get a better understanding
Francisco?
of the execution of my vision. Formal training also
Jad Racha: EΨ ĞĦŧáÝΨ ŎĦΨ ¾ğΨ 8ł¾ğ×ăņ×ĦΨ ăğΨ ̛̙̙̝Ψ
allowed me to excel in my creative instincts.
JR: My formal training helped me perfect my
to study fashion design at the Academy of Art
University.
A͝Ψ ğŮΨ ö¾ņÿăĦğΨ ÿĦœņáņΨ ŮĦœΨ ŨĦłĔáÝΨ öĦłΨ ÖáöĦłáΨ
Öá×ĦĞăğ÷ΨăğÝáĿáğÝáğŎ͢
HB: And you stayed?
JR: ¬áņ͜ΨEΨ×¾ĞáΨŎĦΨņŎœÝŮΨöĦłΨ¾ΨŮá¾łΨÖœŎΨöáĘĘΨăğΨĘĦŧáΨ
with the city, the freedom, the values, and the
JR: Yes, Monique Lhuillier, Zac Posen, Herve Leger,
¾ğÝΨ]¾ŭΨŶłă¾͛
ÖᾜŎŮ͠ΨĦΨEΨņŎ¾ŮáÝ͛
A͝Ψ¦ÿă×ÿΨŎăĞáΨĿáłăĦÝΨăğΨÿăņŎĦłŮΨăğƆœáğ×áÝΨŮĦœłΨ
A͝Ψ ¦ÿáğΨ ÝăÝΨ ŮĦœΨ ƅłņŎΨ Öá×ĦĞáΨ ăğŎáłáņŎáÝΨ ăğΨ
creations the most? Where would you place your
fashion?
work now?
JR: łĦœğÝΨŎÿáΨ¾÷áΨĦöΨ̙̚͜ΨăğΨRáÝݾÿ͜ŨÿăĘáΨŨ¾Ŏ×ÿăğ÷Ψ
my mom get ready to attend events. My mother
really shaped my identity as a designer and as
¾Ψ ÿœĞ¾ğΨ Öáăğ÷͛Ψ dÖņáłŧăğ÷Ψ ÿáł͜Ψ EΨ ņ¾ŨΨ ¾Ψ ŨĦоğΨ
transform from daily routine household activities
into a stunning, glamorous individual with gowns,
JR:Ψ áƅğăŎáĘŮΨŎÿáΨ̞̙ņ͞ΨEΨÝĦğΉŎΨłá¾ĘĘŮΨĿĘ¾×áΨĞŮΨŨĦłĔΨ
ăğΨ¾ΨņĿá×ăƅ×ΨĿĘ¾×á͛ΨEΨöĦלņΨĦğΨÝáņă÷ğăğ÷Ψ÷ĦŨğņΨŎÿ¾ŎΨ
stand the test of time in this fast-turning industry.
A͝Ψ áņ׳ăÖáΨŮĦœłΨņŎŮĘáΨöĦłΨœņ͛
jewels, make-up, and perfume. Watching these
JR: Timeless elegance, yet modern. Clean, modern,
transformations made me want to become a
¾ğÝΨŎăĞáĘáņņ͛Ψ]ŮΨŨĦłĔΨłáƆá×ŎņΨ×Ę¾ņņă×ΨáĘá÷¾ğ×áΨ¾ğÝΨ
fashion designer.
detailed craftsmanship.
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 127
“Anyone can design something, but style is
who you are. Style is within you.”
LUXURY TRENDING
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 129
LUXURY TRENDING
HB: Tell us the process you adhere to
in designing a gown for a client.
JR: Initially, we speak on the phone.
This way, I get a sense of what the
client wants. My challenge here is how
to push the envelope to get great and
creative results in the end. I start by
creating illustrations that the client
and I collaborate on. Then there are
more sketches, fabric swatches, and
color considerations. Once a design
is agreed upon, there are typically
̝ͺ̞Ψ ƅŎŎăğ÷ņ͞Ψ áŧáłŮŎÿăğ÷Ψ ăņΨ Ğ¾ÝáΨ ŎĦΨ
Ğá¾ņœłáΨ ¾ğÝΨ ×łá¾ŎáÝΨ ņĿá×ăƅ×¾ĘĘŮΨ öĦłΨ
Ŏÿ¾ŎΨņĿá×ăƅ×Ψ×ĘăáğŎ͛
HB: What is the most important
aspect of creating a gown?
JR: 8ăŎΨăņΨĔáŮ͞ΨăŎΉņΨ¾ĘĘΨ¾ÖĦœŎΨŎÿáΨƅŎ͠
HB: Do you allow the press or
magazines to see your design concept
Michelle Box
for a client?
JR: No, never. My designs are never
ĦœŎΨ ÖáöĦłáΨ ŎÿáΨ ƅğăņÿáÝΨ ×łá¾ŎăĦğ͛Ψ ^ĦΨ
leaks, not even sketches. Nothing
Ęá¾ŧáņΨŎÿáΨŎáĘăáł͞ΨEΨ¾ņĔΨ¾ĘĘΨŎĦΨÖáΨĔáĿŎΨ
Ŀłăŧ¾Ŏá͜Ψ Ýăņ׳ááŎ͜Ψ ¾ğÝΨ ×ĦğƅÝáğŎă¾Ę͛Ψ
Nothing should take away from the
ƅğ¾ĘΨΆ¦d¦·Ψö¾×ŎĦł͛
HB: Who in the fashion world do you
admire?
JR: Ralph Rucci, his work and unique
take on fashion have always been
ņĦœł×áņΨ ĦöΨ áŭ×áĘĘáğ×á͜Ψ ¾ğÝΨ EΨ ¾ÝĞăłáΨ
that.
Hubert de Givenchy and Christian
ăĦłΨŨáłáΨăğƆœáğŎă¾ĘΨ¾ņΨŨáĘĘ͛
HB: And in the art world, who
inspired you?
JR:Ψ^ĦΨĦğáΨăğΨĿ¾łŎă×œĘ¾ł͜ΨÖœŎΨEΨÝĦΨĘĦŧáΨ
Ö¾łĦŁœáΨ¾łŎ͛ΨEΨƅğÝΨăŎΨáŭŎłáĞáĘŮΨĞĦŧăğ÷Ψ
and full of elements of darkness,
texture, and raw emotion.
130 • PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA •
LUXURY TRENDING
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 131
LUXURY TRENDING
HB: What is the major source of your
free of rules, physics, and gravity—vs.
ideas and inspirations?
the reality of creating designs that must
JR: My ideas come from all over
my
surroundings:
fabric,
sketching, music, and vintage shops.
I don’t think about what I’m
designing;
follow sets of rules.
draping,
instead,
I
HB: So, you create works on paper
purely as art?
just
JR: I do, all the time. I sketch and
let it happen and see what
Ŀ¾ăğŎΨ ÝăƂáłáğŎΨ ŎŮĿáņΨ ĦöΨ ¾łŎΨ đœņŎΨ ŎĦΨ ÷áŎΨ
comes out. I don’t think of my
inspiration or what it should
be. Instead, I allow myself
for it to come naturally from
¾Ψ ĿĘ¾×áΨ ĦöΨ ğĦΨ ņĿá×ăƅ×Ψ ĞăğÝΨ
set or emotion. Inspiration
can
be
found
anywhere,
really anywhere—not just in
art, music, or nature, but in
mundane daily life.
HB: Might there be one area
that speaks to you the most?
JR: Yes, mostly music. If I’m
home, I put on my headphones
or have music all over the
house, and often a melody will
catch my creative thoughts.
Suddenly, I’m in the zone. I
don’t think about creating
¾ğŮŎÿăğ÷Ψ ņĿá×ăƅ×͞Ψ EΨ đœņŎΨ ņŎ¾łŎΨ
ņĔáŎ×ÿăğ÷Ψ ŨăŎÿΨ ğĦΨ ņĿá×ăƅ×Ψ
direction. I disconnect the
technical
thought
process
because you cannot be creative
with technical thinking. Being
creative is an experience of the
soul.
HB: Your illustrations have
been published in fashion
books, and your drawings are
exhibited by Saatchi Art. How do you
ĞŮΨ ×łá¾ŎăŧáΨ đœă×áņΨ ƆĦŨăğ÷͛Ψ EΨ đœņŎΨ ņŎ¾łŎΨ
sketching and allow myself to be free.
Almost childlike—no rules, no concept;
I just try to have fun with it. Working on
paper is extremely therapeutic for me,
and I try not to put any boundaries on it.
I barely throw any art away; you never
know when something could emerge
from it.
HB: What are some high points of your
career?
JR: I think my illustrations being
published in a fashion illustration
book
was
Assisting
and
is
Monique
a
high
Lhuillier
point.
on
a
design for Michelle Obama is, of
course, memorable. Having my bridal
collection in one of the most exclusive
boutiques in San Francisco, Jin Wang,
is always a highlight. I recall with great
ĿłăÝáΨ ŎÿáΨ ƅłņŎΨ Ýáņă÷ğΨ EΨ ×łá¾ŎáÝΨ œğÝáłΨ
my own label, which will always have
¾Ψ ņĿá×ă¾ĘΨ ņă÷ğăƅ×¾ğ×áΨ ŎĦΨ Ğá͛Ψ EŎΨ Ũ¾ņΨ ¾Ψ
ÖłĦŨğΨņŎł¾ĿĘáņņΨ÷ĦŨğΨŨăŎÿΨоņņăŧáΨĦƂͺ
shoulder sleeves. It was at that moment
that I realized what my vision for my
own label would be.
HB: Any disappointments or low
points?
JR: Of course! But those low points and
ÝăƂáłáğŎă¾ŎáΨÖáŎŨááğΨ¾Ý͜ΨŎÿáΨ×ĦœŎœłáΨ
disappointments are the moments that
designer (an art in itself), and Rad, the
I look back on and am actually grateful
artist?
for. If it wasn’t for those moments, I
JR:ΨÿáŮΨ¾łáΨğĦŎΨğá×áņņ¾łăĘŮΨņĦΨÝăƂáłáğŎ͛Ψ
wouldn’t be where I am today.
My approach to illustration is similar to
my approach when designing a gown.
A͝Ψ}łĦƅĘáΨĦöΨ¾Ψö¾ŧĦłăŎáΨ×ĘăáğŎ͢Ψ
ÿáΨĦğĘŮΨÝăƂáłáğ×áΨăņΨŎÿ¾ŎΨđœņŎΨÝł¾Ũăğ÷Ψ
JR: The key is personality. When a
allows me to be more expressive and
client trusts my creative instincts and
dive deeper into a fantasy realm—a place
abilities, I create the best results.
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 133
LUXURY TRENDING
HB: Is all of your work done in your
HB: Describe a woman of style.
private atelier, or do you contract with
JR:Ψ $¾ņŮ͛Ψ ĦğƅÝáğ×á͜Ψ ÝáĞá¾ğĦł͜Ψ ¾ğÝΨ đœņŎΨ
various professionals?
her presence. And Kindness
JR: I’m fortunate to have a great team. We
all understand each other’s talents and
HB: Your formula for life:
areas of expertise. My appointments and
JR: Don’t take yourself too seriously.
ƅŎŎăğ÷ņΨ ÿ¾ĿĿáğΨ ¾ŎΨ ĞŮΨ ¾ŎáĘăáł͛Ψ $ŧáłŮŎÿăğ÷Ψ
else is with my team in Los Angeles;
HB: Share some of your passions and
ŎÿáΨ ƅğ¾ĘΨ ŎĦœ×ÿáņΨ ¾łáΨ ÝĦğáΨ ÿáłáΨ ăğΨ ¾ğΨ
favorites with us.
Francisco.
•What do you do to relax?
HB: Talent vs. creativity: Talent can be
EΨÝĦğΉŎΨŎ¾ĘĔΨ¾ÖĦœŎΨŨĦłĔΨŨÿáğΨEΉĞΨĦœŎΨŨăŎÿΨ
learned, creativity cannot. Would you
öłăáğÝņΨ ¾ğÝΨ áŧáğΨ ×ĘăáğŎņ͛Ψ EΨ ĘĦŧáΨ ŎĦΨ ÿ¾ŧáΨ ¾Ψ
agree?
drink or two (tequila, please) and just hang
JB:Ψ¬áņ͜ΨEΨÝĦ͛Ψ¬ĦœΨ×¾ğΉŎΨÖáΨ׳á¾ŎăŧáΨŨÿáğΨŮĦœΨ
ĦœŎΨ¾ŎΨ¾ΨĘĦ×¾ĘΨÖ¾ł͛ΨğÝΨĦöΨ×Ħœłņá͜Ψݾğ×ăğ÷ͽ
are thinking technically!
dancing all night long.
EΨĘá¾łğáÝΨĞœ×ÿΨ¾ÖĦœŎΨŎÿáΨņœÖđá×ŎΨăğΨ×ĦĘĘá÷áΨ
•¬ĦœłΨö¾ŧĦłăŎáΨŧ¾×¾ŎăĦğΨņĿĦŎ͢
łá¾Ýăğ÷Ψ $×Ĕÿ¾łŎΨ ĦĘĘáΉņΨ ΆƈáΨ }ĦŨáłΨ ĦöΨ
New York.
Now,” which talks about inner peace and
separating yourself from your mind so
•Your favorite meals?
you can be in the present and be creative.
ÿ¾Ũ¾łĞ¾Ψņ¾ğÝŨă×ÿáņ͛ΨEΨ¾ĘņĦΨĘĦŧáΨ÷Ħăğ÷ΨŎĦΨ
Creativity comes from who you are as a
¾Ψ ĘĦ×¾ĘΨ ×¾öáΨ ğá¾łΨ ĞŮΨ ÿĦœņá͜Ψ ŨÿáłáΨ EΨ łáĘ¾ŭΨ
being, not from what you are thinking.
ÖáöĦłáΨEΨņŎ¾łŎΨĞŮΨݾŮ͛ΨEΨ¾×Ŏœ¾ĘĘŮΨĘăĔáΨ¾ĘĘΨĔăğÝņΨ
of food; the simpler, the better.
ĦĞáΨ ĿáĦĿĘáΨ ÿ¾ŧáΨ ¾Ψ ņĿá×ăƅ×Ψ Ŏ¾ĘáğŎ͞Ψ
ŎÿăņΨ Ŏ¾ĘáğŎΨ ×¾ğΨ ÖáΨ ÝáŧáĘĦĿáÝ͛Ψ EŎΨ ăņΨ ÷ĦĦÝΨ
•¬ĦœłΨ×ĦĞöĦłŎΨŶĦğá͝ΨöĦłĞ¾ĘΨĦłΨ×¾ņœ¾ĘΨŨá¾ł͢
to
Black jeans, black light crew neck sweater.
understand
your
strengths
and
weaknesses; then you will understand who
OK, an occasional tuxedo for a gala.
you are as an artist (and a person).
•ƈáΨ¾łŎņͽĞœņă×͜ΨÖ¾ĘĘáŎ͜Ψ÷¾ĘĘáłăáņ͜ΨĞœņáœĞņ͢
HB: Design vs. Style?
]ĦņŎĘŮΨ Ğœņă×͛Ψ EΨ ĘĦŧáΨ ĘăņŎáğăğ÷Ψ ŎĦΨ Ğœņă×͛Ψ EŎΨ
JR: Anyone can design something, but style
inspires me.
is who you are. Style is within you. You
can look like a million wearing a rag if you
HB: How would you like to be remembered?
have style, and you can make a hundred
JR:Ψ EΉÝΨ ĘăĔáΨ ŎĦΨ ÖáΨ łáĞáĞÖáłáÝΨ öĦłΨ Öáăğ÷Ψ
thousand-dollar gown look cheap if there
a kind person and having the ability to
is no style.
empower others.
134 • PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA •
ΆEğņĿăł¾ŎăĦğΨ×¾ğΨÖáΨöĦœğÝΨ¾ğŮŨÿáłá͜Ψłá¾ĘĘŮΨ
¾ğŮŨÿáłáͽğĦŎΨđœņŎΨăğΨ¾łŎ͜ΨĞœņă×͜ΨĦłΨğ¾Ŏœłá͜Ψ
ÖœŎΨăğΨĞœğݾğáΨݾăĘŮΨĘăöá͛·
LUXURY TRENDING
Dazzling Beauty
Reveals Her Journey and Passion in This Exclusive Cover Feature
CREDITS
Muse:
VERONICA MONTES - @_veronicamontes
Photographer: @theoscarvalle
Stylist: @manueldelgado.moda
Wardrobe: @juanworleymx
Make up: @ilceporrasmakeup
Hairstyle: @_dian.zb_
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 137
In the vast world of Latin entertainment,
stars emerge who capture attention with
their innate talent and unique charisma.
Among these luminaries, Peruvian actress Verónica Montes stands out, whose
presence on screen has not only left an indelible mark on the industry but has also
won hearts with her authentic charm and
unwavering dedication.
From her early steps in acting to becoming a prominent figure in the Latin scene, Montes has proven to be much more
than a talented performer; she is a force
that represents the diversity and vigor of
Peruvian culture. In this journey of discovery, we will explore Verónica Montes’
fascinating trajectory, from her roots
in Peru to her accomplishments on the
screen, and discover how her Latina attitude redefines standards in the entertainment industry.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Verónica Montes, where a passion for acting blends with the
authenticity of her Peruvian heritage,
bringing to life a star with unparalleled
Latina attitude.
LUXURY TRENDING
I believe that Latino America is one of
the emergent “talents market” that is
stepping up to be at the highest level.
Career Beginnings: Tell us about your journey
into acting. What motivated you to pursue this
career?
When I was 3 years old in Peru, I participated
in a brand commercial, were they ask several
children what they wanted to be when they
grew up. Without nobody told me what to say,
my answer was straight forward: “I want to be
an actress and a mother”. So I did not have a
particular motivation, it was more a calling that
I had since I was little.
Highlight Projects: You’ve been involved in
various projects. Is there one in particular that
has been especially meaningful for you?
The project that was a turning point in my
career was “El Señor de Los Cielos”, my character “La Condesa”, become very known. This
series lunch me to a new level of actress, so it
will always have a special place in my heart.
Challenges and Achievements: Can you share
a challenge you’ve faced in your career and
how you overcame it? Any achievement you’re
particularly proud of?
One of my biggest challenges was to venture in comedy. I never felt that I could make
people laugh with my acting, so I was reluctant
to participate in a comedy series that it was
offered to me. Thanks to the people close to
me that pushed me to accept the roll, I took it,
worked really hard to overcome my fears, and
became an all-terrain performer.
Latina Representation: As a Latina actress, how do you
perceive the evolution of Latina representation in the
entertainment industry?
Over the last years I have seen a huge growth of
the Latin talent, that has positioned it as a principal
resource in this industry. In the globalized world that
we live in, you need to use talent of all around the
world, in order to make better sales. I believe that Latino America is one of the emergent “talents market”
that is stepping up to be at the highest level.
Favorite Characters: Of all the characters you’ve portrayed, is there a favorite? Why?
“La Condesa” will always be y favorite character, regardless that I have done other roles that have higher
complexity, and that have make me growth more as
an actress, this is the one that was my trampoline to
get to where I am now.
Artistic Influences: Do you have any artistic influences that have significantly impacted your approach to
acting?
Adriana Barraza was the person that teach me the
fundamentals in which I have based my entire development as an actress.
Advice for New Talent: What advice would you give to
those just starting in acting, especially young Latinos
aspiring to enter the industry?
To search inside of them if they really want to pursue
this career, if they are willing to make all the big sacrifices that brings with it. And if they are, then to use
the highest level of discipline to prepare themselves
and tons of patience to wait for the correct
140 • PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA •
LUXURY TRENDING
I always look for challenging roles, the ones whit
the most nuances that allows me to show the biggest
quantity of facets of the character.
ching for an opportunity in the entertainment
industry.
opportunity.
Role Diversification: You’ve worked in a variety
of genres. How do you choose your roles and
seek to diversify your career?
I always look for challenging roles, the ones
whit the most nuances that allows me to show
the biggest quantity of facets of the character. There is not black and white in the real
life, you need to show all the grays that the
role has to create the best perception for the
audience.
Social Media and Fans: You’re very active on
social media. How do you manage interaction
with your followers, and how important is that
connection to you?
The connection with my followers is the most
important think for me. They are the ones that
makes me, without them, I am nothing, so I
personally manage all my social media, and I
try to answer as much as possible to each one
of them.
Industry Changes: How have you seen the
entertainment industry change throughout your
career? What do you think are the emerging
trends?
When I started, the options for working were
limited, the big companies held all the control
of the industry. Now days, the fan of possibilities is much bigger, there are a lot of productions of small companies that can have a great
exposure if they make things right. I am very
happy with this change, because there are a lot
of opportunities for the people that is sear-
Current Projects: Can you give us a sneak peek
into the projects you’re currently working on?
Right now, I am finishing the shooting of “El
Maleficio” in Mexico. In 2024 I will start several projects in which I had worked for a very
long time, and that they will finally fulfilled!!! I
cannot say nothing yet, but your expectations
can be pretty high.
Balancing Personal and Professional Life: Being
a public figure can be demanding. How do you
find the balance between your personal and
professional life?
To keep this balance is very hard and is a dayto-day work. I have a weekly personal time
target that I always try to accomplish. But to
be honest, the are times that I cannot get it.
Dream Collaborations: If you could choose to
collaborate with any actor or director in the
future, who would it be and why?
I would love to work with Charlize Teron, I
am a big fan of her. She is one of the most
complete actresses of the world, a complete
chameleon; she can go from the most gorgeous
women to an ugly monster.
Future Goals: What are your goals and aspirations for the future in terms of your artistic
career?
My dream is to work with Hollywood productions, so I am setting now my aspirations in
achieve this dream.
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 143
LUXURY TRENDING
Muse: RACHEL LUNA
Glam: DIEGO AGUILAR
Hair: CARLA ORDONEZ
Production: BURGERROCK MEDIA - IRMA PENUNURI
Photographer: HAROL BAEZ
Styling: ARNOLD MILFORT
Production Assistant: ROMINA OLIVIA
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 145
LUXURY TRENDING
THE EPITOME OF
THE MODERN LATINA
On the topic of success
and the responsibility
that comes with it, this
New York City themed
photoshoot and
interview is only one
marker on her
career journey.
R
achel Luna is the epitome of the modern
Latina -- a humble self-made woman living a lifestyle
she dreamed and strived for since her youth. Before
earning the well-earned label of the “Title Queen,”
Luna grew up in a lower-income household and faced
adversity throughout her childhood. Nevertheless, her
upbringing allowed her to establish a strong foundation of Latin values – prioritizing family, maintaining a powerful work ethic, and having the drive to
succeed no matter what.
With her success comes a responsibility of advocating
for other women. While a leader for other women
within her industry, Luna has a passion for uplifting
other Latina business women, continuously making
efforts within her own company and industry to make
opportunities more accessible. However, Luna is very
candid when discussing the lack of sisterhood her fellow Latinas have, holding onto a competitive nature
over sisterhood in both their personal and professional lives.
On the topic of success and the responsibility that
comes with it, this New York City themed photoshoot
and interview is only one marker on her career
journey. An experience that was truly magical, it
all represents Luna’s dreams that have come true
and the next stages of her career that are yet to
come.
If someone were to ask you who is the Texas
Title Queen, what would you say?
She is a self-made Latina who is leading the
industry and leading women to glory!
What does your Latina identity mean to you?
It means everything. If it wasn’t for my Latin
roots, [I wouldn’t have] the work ethic that comes with working hard, the value of family, and
the value of the American dream. Obviously, my
story is that I come from a very poor Mexican-American family. Being Latina is everything
to me. It’s given me the basis of who I am with
the strong family values, hard work ethic, and
the will and the drive to do whatever it takes
to prevail. There’s no task beneath me, believe
that!
What would you say are some of the issues the
modern Latina faces today?
Even though we have come a long way, there’s
still a strong racial undertone in our society, especially with strong Latin women in business.
Latinas are still considered lesser than the white women within business because we are still
seen as homemakers and wives. Because of that
perception of Latinas, we have a higher bar set
on us.
As an ethnic group, we also go against each
other at times. I’d like to disclose that Latinas
are probably one of the prime ethnic groups
who don’t support each other in business and
in growth, as compared to other ethnic groups.
In business, it has been very difficult. With my
personality, it’s easy for people to warm up to
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 147
LUXURY TRENDING
me, but it has been proven time and time again to be harder to
create a rapport with other successful Latin women. I get messages
from all kinds of people, but it’s very minimal that I am reached out
to by a Latina for a collaboration. We’re not supporting each other.
We’re not leveling each other up. It’s almost like we’re competing
against each other.
I try to hire Latin women within my company. All the VP’s are Latinas, and I always try to promote them. I also support other Latina
business women by helping with event collaborations or speaking
arrangements. I always make time for other business women to
share what makes me successful, to elevate them and myself. I do
whatever I can to help other Latina business women shine, and to
help them build their business or fundraising.
To support one another, we can give each other shoutouts on social
media. Let them know that you’re someone who’s successful and
you’re acknowledging another woman’s success. People want to
be acknowledged. Whatever I can do to support another Latinas,
I’m all game for it.
That’s been the basis of my brand, and I know that that’s why I’ve
been so successful, but that success comes with responsibility.
Tell us more about your upbringing and your childhood. What are
some lessons you learned growing up that still stick with you?
As a Latina, one of the biggest lessons that have stuck with me is
that family is the most important. At the end of the day, who are we
working so hard for? We work hard to create a legacy and a life
for our families that is better than the life we had before. That’s a
big undertone in the Latin community, especially with families who
are immigrants and come here for a better future. Family is first,
and that is a big basis of everything that I do. My family is very
close, and they are a part of my company as well. As long as I have
their support on this journey, we’re going to keep going.
In reference to business, it’s important to work hard, stay humble,
remember where you come from, and look where you’re going.
Being a business woman, Latina, and having come from a poor
family, I have created a work ethic where I don’t mind doing whatever it takes to be successful. I have come from nothing.
148 • PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA •
LUXURY TRENDING
Who were some of the powerful Latina women from
your upbringing who shaped you into who you are
today?
I come from a family where the women were the
leads in the house. My grandmother ran the show,
and now I’m the matriarch of the family.
My grandmother barely spoke English, but she instilled very strong values in me such as never settling
for less. We only have one life to live. She also told
me to not worry about how long it’s going to get
there, you’re going to get there. She taught me how
to take care of myself, value myself, and love myself
as a young Latina. My grandmother really shaped
the person I am today.
I have always been a firecracker, but she gave me
the power and the confidence early on that I could
do anything. Today, I am empowered and confident,
knowing that not everything is going to go my way,
but if I want it that bad, it’s going to happen.
As Latinas, we worry so much about what others
think about us — our shape, size, looks, and our levels of success. We need to worry about what we
think about ourselves.
You have previously discussed how you’re modernizing your industry with your personal style and
personality. How do you manage to stay authentic
to yourself and your identity, being a powerful force
within real estate?
It goes back to my Latina roots and keeping my
feet on the ground. I stay humble and I’m not done
with where I need to go. There’s still a lot of people
I need to meet and circle myself around with. I feel
that I am on a journey, but I’m no better than anyone
else. I just happen to know what I want and where
I’m going, which is what keeps me authentic to myself. There’s no fake it til you make it here! You have
to be who you are and be true to yourself.
This shoot took place in New York City. Can
you tell me more about the experience of
shooting in some of the famous landmarks
in the city?
It was absolutely amazing! It was everything
and more. It was a magical life memory to
me, being able to do this photoshoot in New
York and visit these beautiful landmarks. To
be able to have this experience in my life
was absolutely amazing! The day couldn’t
have been more beautiful. The whole trip
was divine.
The shoot represents a huge pivot in the direction of where I’m going and how fast I’m
going to get there now. You either go big or
go home, and there is no better place to do a
huge photoshoot than the Big Apple.
New York City is often referred to as the “City
of Dreams,” despite it being a very cutthroat
city. What is some advice you can give to
other women on achieving their dreams?
You’re going to get beat up. You’re going to
get beat down. You’re going to get kicked
around. But, if you believe in yourself and
your destiny, rest assured that your dreams
will come true. You have to be willing to do
whatever it takes to get there. To everyone
out there reading this, it’s your own journey.
“ If you believe in yourself and your
destiny, rest assured that your dreams
will come true.”
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 151
LUXURY TRENDING
2024
M
aria Grazia Chiuri, Creative
Director of Dior women’s lines, dreamed up this spring-summer 2024 readyto-wear collection starting from a reflection on the meaning of the present. A
present in which past and future must
coexist simultaneously.
In this convergency, open to many interpretations, she continues to explore
the relationship between femininity and
feminism, driven by the conviction that
fashion has, more than ever, a responsibility to help women realize their worth and express their differences. She
is therefore interested in all the rebels
who have asserted their independence
in the face of a masculine world and
challenged its system.
These include witches, custodians of
the knowledge of the mother-goddess,
who pass on the science of plants and
respect the time of nature. Maria Grazia
Chiuri’s creations for Dior reveal a medieval style, an architectural silhouette,
where the jacket is of masculine mode.
Certain fabrics bear witness to a materiality, a memory of time and an in-depth knowledge of the work of Italian artist Alberto Burri; tears, lacerations and
combustions become a constitutive, performative element of the garment. The
colors are those of ash, chamomile and
love potions. The Mille-fleurs, emblematic of Dior, is transformed into a dark
motif, a contrasting floral X-ray. Phases
of the moon, suns announcing the seasons, medicinal herbs and fantastical
animals are all part of this iconic design,
and of the embroidery also at times.
Knitwear plays a tremendous role: it accompanies and caresses the curves of
the body, enveloping without constric-
156 • PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA •
ting, it is warm, sexy. A very light, metallic sweater alludes to chainmail.
The monumental, immersive NOT HER
art piece, by Elena Bellantoni, perpetuates this refusal of all the clichés that
confine women to predefined categories. The video installation, occupying
all the walls of the show’s scenography,
uses the analog split-flap device: we
see a succession of female figures (including the artist herself) reworked by
Elena Bellantoni, in a pop spirit, using
imagery from sexist adverts and counterpoint phrases to respond to the dominant stereotype: “it’s not her, she’s no
longer all that”.
This new collection thus restores the
idea that the body/clothing relationship
is set in the context of the times and not
in the time of one day or nostalgia.
LUXURY TRENDING
158 • PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA •
LUXURY TRENDING
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 159
LUXURY TRENDING
160 • PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA •
LUXURY TRENDING
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 161
LUXURY TRENDING
• PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA • 163
LUXURY TRENDING
164 • PLPG GLOBAL MEDIA •
REDCARPET EVENTS
San Francisco Opera Guild Presents
AN EVENING ON THE STAGE
Heide VanDoren Betz | Photography: Drew Altizer
The beginning of the Holiday
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presented by the San Francisco Opera Guild,
celebrating its tenth anniversary. 250 guests
dined on the historic War Memorial Opera
House stage, where, since 1932, operatic
legends like Luciano Pavarotti, Leontyne
Price, and Renée Fleming have performed. The
evening’s décor was by none other than the
master of magic and over-the-top gorgeous
décor, J. Riccardo Benavides, included the
set from Donizetti’s The Elixir of Love, the
delightful new production of the romantic
comedy set on the Italian Rivera, which began
a six-performance run in November. McCalls
Catering and Events created a sumptuous
dinner complete with an astonishing dessert
׳á¾ŎăĦğΨ ĦöΨ ¾Ψ ĿœłáΨ ×ÿĦ×ĦĘ¾ŎáΨ Ŀă¾ğĦΨ ƅĘĘáÝΨ ŨăŎÿΨ
silky chocolate mousse and berries. It was too
beautiful to eat, but guests savored it none the
less.
Co-chaired by Jane Mudge
and áĘáņŎáΨ WááͺĦÖłĦƂ, An Evening on the
Stage included a cocktail reception in the War
Memorial Opera House foyer, followed by
dinner on stage with musical performances,
the presentation of the 2023 Crescendo
Awards, and dancing on the Opera House
stage. Musical guests included Adler Fellows
tenor Moisés Salazar, soprano Olivia Smith,
and pianist Marika Yasuda; the San Francisco
Opera Guild’s Opera Scouts; and pianist Ronny
Michael Greenberg. The Cheeseballs provided
ŎÿáΨ Ğœņă×Ψ öĦłΨ ŎÿáΨ Ý¾ğ×áΨ ƆĦĦł͛Ψ }łĦ×ááÝņΨ öłĦĞΨ
this event support the San Francisco Opera
Guild’s award-winning music education
programs, which reach thousands of students
in the greater Bay Area each year.
The
Crescendo
Award
is presented to individuals who have
demonstrated extraordinary support to the
Guild and San Francisco Opera.
Karen J. Kubin, who created
this event ten years ago, served as president
of the San Francisco Opera Guild from 2012
to 2014. Presently, she is a member of the
Board of Directors of the San Francisco Opera
Association. Kubin is a tireless supporter
of today’s youth, mentoring them both
professionally and personally, and a passionate
advocate of music education, blending this
interest with her philanthropic activities
through her board service. She supports the
San Francisco Opera Adler Fellowship Program
and the Merola Opera Program, where many
young artists have launched brilliant operatic
careers, including several she has proudly
sponsored. Karen: “The power of support for
the education of young performers can change
their lives forever.”
Mary
Poland
has
served
on the San Francisco Opera Guild Board
since 1983, where she held the position of
president from 2018 to 2020. She is an active
philanthropist and leader who believes in
equitable access to arts, higher education, and
public lands. Her charitable support is both
generous and strategic. To ensure the Guild’s
education programs’ longevity, she regularly
mentors Guild directors on fundraising and
development. Mary: “I support children,
education, and music. I believe that music
education is the springboard for children to be
successful in the world.”
Bill Poland graduated from
Georgia Tech with a Bachelor of Science in
Mechanical Engineering. He received an MBA
from Stanford Graduate School of Business
and worked at The Rouse Company, Coldwell
Banker, and Cabot, Cabot & Forbes before
founding the Bay West Group in 1979. Of his
support of the opera Bill: “The power of the
voice is like standing at the ocean and having
the waves rush over you!”
Co-Chair Jane Mudge remarked:
“áĘáņŎáΨ WááͺĦÖłĦƂΨ and I are thrilled to cochair the event’s 10th anniversary celebration.
The concept of an intimate evening on the
stage of the Opera House has evolved into an
extraordinarily successful annual event for the
San Francisco Opera Guild. We are grateful that
each year our guests respond to the event with
generous enthusiasm as we gather to honor
important supporters of the Guild, promote
our mission of youth education in music,
celebrate the close of a successful fall opera
ņá¾ņĦğ͜Ψ¾ğÝΨĔă×ĔΨĦƂΨŎÿáΨÿĦĘăݾŮņ͛Ψ¾ğΨ8ł¾ğ×ăņ×ĦΨ
Opera Guild President Courtney Labe said: “An
Evening on the Stage is the Guild’s signature
holiday event and key fundraiser, helping
to sustain our nationally recognized arts
education programs. Our commitment to
accessible music education enriches the lives
of greater Bay Area youth, building life skills
and developing broader perspectives.”
For more information about
the San Francisco Opera Guild and its
programming, please visit sfopera.com/OperaGuild.
Marika Yasuda, Moises Salazar and Olivia Smith
Celeste Lee-Bobroff, Susan Malott, Karen Kubin and Jane Mudge
Bill Poland and Mary Poland
Courtney Labe and Matthew Shilvoc
Virginia Leen and Courtney Labe
Mary Poland
Mark Kroll, Susan Kroll and Matthew Shilvock
Christopher Wiseman and Cynthia Schreuder
Daru Kawalkowski
Julie Park and Alexandre Bezborodko
Sherene Melania, Gary Garabedian and Lily Samii
David Laudon and Randy Laroche
Bill Poland, Mary Poland, Kristin Maggi and Deno Maggi
Heide Betz and Robert Beadle
Moises Salazar
Kristy Bruehl and Zac Bloom
Julie Park and Alexandre Bezborodko
Teresa Rodriguez, Mark Sullivan and Olivia Decker
John Carrara and Jacob Langfelder
Susan Kirk and Jim Kirk
Skip Paul and Karen Kubin
Celeste Lee-Bobroff, Nick Bobroff and Jane Mudge
Elisa Stephens and John Ramsbacher
Burt Inch and Jane Inch
Elizabeth Birka-White and David Birka-White
Farah Makras and Victor Makras
Josh Fiedler and Jennifer Bienaime
Lisa Grotts and Shannon Cronan
Kristin Sorensen and Danny Tran
Barbara Brown
Toni Wolfson and Joanna Sachs
Janet Cluff, Julie Coplon and Robert Beadle
Mary Beth Shimmon and Barbara Brown
David Shimmon and Mary Beth Shimmon
Jack Calhoun and Maryam Muduroglu
Dede Wilsey
Carolyn Fung, Christine Suppes and Gloria Zhu
Jorge Maumer and Jennifer Walske
Christine Suppes and Barbara Brown
Dede Wilsey and Jack Calhoun
Jinnie Simonsen, France Szeto, Mary Poland and Nazan Orr
David Birka-White, Karen Kubin and Elizabeth Birka-White
Maryam Muduroglu and Courtney Labe
Carolyn Fung, Un Pak, Chong Pak, Julie Park and Gloria Zhu
REDCARPET EVENTS
GORDON
GETTY
Celebrates His 90th Birthday
Photography: Drew Altizer
Paul Pelosi Sr., Gordon Getty, Nancy Pelosi and Billy Getty
Composer and arts patron Gordon Getty, who turned 90 on December 20, celebrated
on the Saturday prior and enjoyed a lively salute by family and friends including Speaker Emerita
Nancy Pelosi and Paul Pelosi, and California Governor Gavin Newsom.
with his spouse designer Rosetta Getty, and many more. As the night progressed, Ivy Getty, Gordon’s
For the occasion, Gordon’s family traveled from Europe, the United Kingdom, and
from across the US. Among the guests were family members Aileen Getty, Mark Getty, Baltazar Getty
WĦłăΨ}ĦłÝł¾Ŷ¾͜Ψ9ĦłÝĦğΉņΨ×ÿáöΨáŭŎł¾ĦłÝăğ¾ăłá͜ΨĿłĦŧăÝáÝΨŎÿáΨ×¾Ŏáłăğ÷͛ΨÿáΨÿá¾łŎöáĘŎΨáŧáğăğ÷ΨŨ¾ņΨŎÿáΨ
granddaughter who shares the same birthday (her 29th) was also celebrated. Décor was provided by
Ŏ¾ğĘááΨ9¾ŎŎă͜ΨŨÿĦΨĦƂáłáÝΨ¾ΨğĦÝΨŎĦΨdł¾ΨáŎÿΨ]ăĔ¾ΉņΨņĿá×Ŏ¾×œĘ¾łΨłááΨĦöΨWăöáΨŨăŎÿΨŎÿáΨÖăłŎÿݾŮΨ×¾Ĕá͛Ψ
centerpiece of a weekend-long tribute to the family’s patriarch, last remaining son of J.P. Getty.
Carl Katerndahl, Elizabeth Mackler, Gordon Getty, Farnoosh Hariri and Austin Hills
Gordon Getty and Gavin Newsom
Gordon Getty
Gordon Getty, Paula Gambs, Daniel Hogue and John Gambs
Gordon Getty and Mimi Haas
Trevor Haigh, Vanessa Waibel, Hannah Schrank and Nicholas Getty
Trevor Haigh and Vanessa Waibel
Alexander Getty
Wilson Sherman, Dunham McBride, Yvette Robbins, Lachlan McBride and Charlotte Cobb
Tom Huntington, Alyssa Huntington, Gavin Newsom and Shelly Guyer
Barbara George and Ronald George
Eva Zanetti and Maria Manetti Shrem
Ivy Getty and Gordon Getty
Michelle Hanna and Michael Hanna
Sabine Getty and Joseph Getty
Trevor Haigh and Vanessa Waibel
Henry Gilbert, Rico Gilbert, Socorro Gilbert and Cora Gilbert
Mary Noel Pepys and Elwood Haynes
Susie Buell and Mark Buell
Ivy Getty
Joseph Getty, Sabine Getty and Gordon Getty
Gavin Newsom, Nancy Pelosi and Gordon Getty
Sabine Getty, Kendalle Getty and Hannah Schrank
Gordon Getty and Nancy Pelosi
Russell Notides and Ellanor Notides
Dede Gelis and Peter Getty
Nancy Pelosi and Paul Pelosi Sr.
Gavin Newsom and Paul Pelosi Sr.
Bob Lieberman, Thomas Murphy and Conrad Getty Christina Getty
Gordon Getty and Monika Cheney
Veronica Getty, Billy Getty and Vanessa Getty
Vandy Boudreau and Shannon Getty
Jackie Speier and Gavin Newsom
Billy Getty and Vanessa Getty
Maria Manetti Shrem and Vanessa Getty
Trevor Traina, Allison Speer, Denise Hale and Furio Rinaldi
Veronica Getty and Vanessa Getty
Summer Tompkins Walker, Leslie Podell, Vanessa Getty and Vandy Boudreau
Christina Getty and Alexander Getty
Danny Price and Allison Townsend
Denise Hale and Furio Rinaldi
Ivy Getty and Vanessa Getty
Tobias Engel and Ivy Getty
Katie Traina and Todd Traina
Leslie Podell and Katie Traina
Kevin Walker, Julia Walker, Rick Walker and Karen Walker
Susie Buell and Eileen Getty
Nats Getty, Kendalle Getty, Ivy Getty, Alexandra Getty
and Vanessa Waibel
Aileen Getty and Gordon Getty
Summer Tompkins Walker and Greg Lopez
REDCARPET EVENTS
2023 SF Film Awards Night
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts | 701 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA 94103
Photography: Drew Altizer
Jessie Fairbanks, Lisa Kleiner Chanoff and Anne Lai
The celebratory event honors exemplary achievement
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Jessie Fairbanks, Nicolas Cage and Anne Lai
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H #-2©yq³©A©©eJessie Fairbanks
q³© Ryan Gosling (Presenter)
©yq³©Greta Gerwig (Honoree)
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q³©John Ortiz (Presente)
q³© Raúl Castillo (Presenter)
©yq³©Roger Ross Williams (Honoree)
q³©Nicolas Cage (Honoree)
Jessie Fairbanks, Ryan Gosling, Greta Gerwig and Anne Lai
Jan Shrem & Maria Manetti Shrem
Katie & Todd Traina
Nicolas Cage and Anne Lai
Jessie Fairbanks, Anne Lai, Lisa Kleiner Chanoff and Nicolas Cage
Emily Cohen and Jessie Cohen
Ryan Gosling and Greta Gerwig
Eva Zanetti, Mauro Aprile Zanetti, Maria Manetti Shrem and Anne Lai
Howard Roffman and Lisa Kleiner Chanoff
Jason Fish, Roger Ross Williams and Courtney Benoist
Raul Castillo and Roger Ross Williams
Roger Ross Williams
John Ortiz
Todd Traina and Katie Traina
Katie Traina, Todd Traina and Anne Lai
Nicolas Cage
Ryan Gosling
John Ortiz and Cord Jefferson
Ryan Gosling
Maria Manetti Shrem
Ryan Gosling and Greta Gerwig
REDCARPET EVENTS
JOEL
GOODRICH
Hosts A Sparkling Evening
by Heide VanDoren Betz
Joel Goodrich
Arriving at Joel Goodrich’s annual Holiday Cocktail Party a few split-second double
takes could be felt by some guests wondering if perhaps… just perhaps… they had awakened with
jet-lag at Versailles, or maybe a secret room at the Ritz Hotel in Paris, or an over-the-Olympus
÷ł¾ğÝΨÖăĘĘăĦğ¾ăłáΨáŧáğŎΨăğΨ¾Ψö¾łΨĦƂΨö¾ğŎ¾ņŮΨăņĘ¾ğÝ͛Ψ^Ħ͜ΨăŎΨŨ¾ņΨăğÝááÝΨRĦáĘΉņΨÿĦĞáΨņáŎΨăğΨ¾ΨĿáğŎÿĦœņáΨăğΨ
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ÿáΨ œğŧáăĘăğ÷Ψ ĦöΨ ¾Ψ œğăŁœáΨ ğáŨΨ Ýáņă÷ğΨ ĿłĦđá×ŎΨ ÝĦğáΨ ăğΨ ×Ħğđœğ×ŎăĦğΨ ŨăŎÿΨ ĦĿÿăáΨ
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in the shape of inverted pyramids, hang from the ornate ceiling in the living and adjacent dining
łĦĦĞņ͛ΨœłłĦœğÝáÝΨÖŮΨ×Ę¾ņņă×Ψ8łáğ×ÿΨ×áăĘăğ÷ΨĞĦĘÝăğ÷ņ͜ΨğáŨĘŮΨ÷ăĘÝáÝΨÖŮΨ¾łŎăņŎΨÿ¾łĦğΨĦņŎáĘĘĦ͜ΨŎÿáņáΨ
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]ĦłáΨ Ŏÿ¾ğΨ ̙̙̚Ψ ÷œáņŎņ͜Ψ ăğ×ĘœÝăğ÷Ψ ĦĘÝΨ öłăáğÝņΨ ¾ğÝΨ ¾ğΨ 8ł¾ğ×ăņ×ĦΉņΨ łá×áğŎΨ ÷ĘăŎŎáł¾ŎăΨ
öłĦĞΨŎÿáΨņĦ×ă¾Ę͜ΨĿÿăĘ¾ğŎÿłĦĿă×͜ΨלĘŎœł¾Ę͜ΨŎá×ÿΨ¾ğÝΨ¾łŎΨŨĦłĘÝņ͜ΨłáĿłáņáğŎăğ÷ΨΨоğŮΨĦöΨŎÿáΨăŎŮΉņΨáņŎͺ
Dressed list, enjoyed sumptuous hors d’oeuvres and Veuve Clicquot champagne from Aaron Jonas
¾Ŏáłăğ÷͛Ψ
At least one guest, Mark Calvano, commented: “This is the highest-energy, most
÷Ę¾ĞĦłĦœņΨ×Ħ×ĔŎ¾ăĘΨĿ¾łŎŮΨEΨÿ¾ŧáΨáŧáłΨÖááğΨŎĦΨăğΨ¾ΨĘĦğ÷ΨŎăĞá͛·Ψ]¾ğŮΨ¾÷łááÝ͛Ψ
Joel Goodrich and Sophie Azouaou
John Newmeyer, Joel Goodrich and Clara Shayevich
Christopher Wiseman, Roberta Sherman, Joel Goodrich and John Newmeyer
Bip Apollo, Adam Balaam and Joel Goodrich
Jacqueline Pio Roda and Ryan Pio Roda
$ÀH5R\R-RHO*RRGULFKDQG2OLYLD'HFNHU
Holly Baxter and Joel Goodrich
Charles Baker III, Robert Richards, Teresa Rodriguez, Cassandra
Rose and Pernella Sommerville
Steve Seto, David Seto and Sharon Seto
Mark Calvano and Joel Goodrich
Mark Calvano, Jacqueline Pio Roda, Ryan Pio Roda, Navid Armstrong, Anne Laury, Antonio Contreras, Pernella Sommerville, Claudia Juestel,
Joel Goodrich and Daru Kawalkowski
$PDUD2NROL-RHO*RRGULFK3HUQHOOD6RPPHUYLOOHDQG$OH[DQGUD/LVV
Carol Liu, Nancy Lam, Joel Goodrich, Human Abaj and Alan Fox
Sydney Espinosa and Joel Goodrich
Robbie Ranan, Joel Goodrich and Tim Banderi
Eric Floyd, Elaine Mellis and Joel Goodrich
Sydney Espinosa, Claudia Juestel, Joel Goodrich and Kelly Menendez
Kari Coomans and Joel Goodrich
Matt Grademan, Po Nguyen and Joel Goodrich
Mark Calvano and Joel Goodrich
Pernella Sommerville and Elisa Stephen
Heide Betz and Joel Goodrich
Antonio Contreras and Joel Goodrich
Ivan Bekichev and Stephanie Ng
Dakota Hileman, Joel Goodrich, Jason West and Sydney Espinosa
Joel Goodrich, Melodie Pacheco and Chase Johnson
$PDUD2NROL-RHO*RRGULFK3HUQHOOD6RPPHUYLOOHDQG$OH[DQGUD/LVV
Heide Betz, Goio Tran, Charles Baker III and Teresa Rodriguez
Goio Tran, Heide Betz and Joel Goodrich
Roman Gronkowski, Sandra Farris, Barbara Brown, Joel Goodrich and Athena Blackburn
Roberta Sherman, Timothy Blackburn and Athena Blackburn
Sophie Azouaou, Joel Goodrich and Bip Apollo
Roberta Sherman, Sophie Azouaou and Clara Shayevich
Ed Winger, Charles Baker III, Aubrey Brewster and Sophie Azouaou
Rosalyn Chen and Joel Goodrich
Joel Goodrich and Navid Armstrong
Pernella Sommerville and Antonio Contreras
REDCARPET EVENTS
THE ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY EVENT
Celebrating Holly Baxter’s Birthday at the Pyramids of Giza
Friendship, Love, Laughter, Art and History
by Heide VanDoren Betz
Holly Baxter
Imagine stepping into an opulent tent set in the
heart of the Egyptian desert, overlooking the pyramids of
Giza. A celebration is about to unfold - a celebration of Holly
Baxter’s Birthday! Friends traveled from the Bay Area, Seattle,
Toronto, New York, Paris and Amsterdam to the Egyptian desert,
áŧáłŮĦğáΨ ƅĘĘáÝΨ ŨăŎÿΨ ¾ğŎă×ăĿ¾ŎăĦğΨ ¾ğÝΨ áŭ×ăŎáĞáğŎΨ ŎĦΨ ņ¾ŧĦłΨ ŎÿăņΨ
lavish event in an oasis under the starlit desert sky .
Ornate, orientalized arches led to the tent, a
׳á¾ŎăĦğΨ ĦöΨ Ýă¾Ŀÿ¾ğĦœņΨ ƆĦŨăğ÷ΨĘăğáğņΨ ¾ğÝΨ ņăĘĔņΨ ÖĘĦŨăğ÷Ψ ăğΨ ŎÿáΨ
nights breezes with richly colored fabrics creating illusions of
walls - a sense of intimacy and luxury at once.
As if this were not enough – suddenly the Pyramids
of Giza came alive (a nightly light display), a truly breathtaking
sight emerging on the horizon of the desert scape. OH MY!
The soft glow of the base lights enhanced the majestic beauty
of arguably the most famous ancient structures in the world,
casting dramatic shadows that highlighted their impressive
architecture. As the desert breezes continued to sweep across
the landscape, ( yes! hair and gowns were blowing in the wind)
there was a sense of excitement and mystery in the air, where
one could not help but to marvel at the wonders of the past and
contemplate the rich history surrounding us that very moment.
As the evening progressed, low lights glowed
over the elegantly decorated tables. Chefs had prepared a
öá¾ņŎΨ ͺΨ ĿłáņáğŎăğ÷Ψ ¾Ψ öœņăĦğΨ ĦöΨ Ɔ¾ŧĦłņΨ ăğņĿăłáÝΨ ÖŮΨ ŎÿáΨ łá÷ăĦğ͛Ψ
As plates adorned with delectable dishes were served, each a
work of culinary art showcasing the vibrant colors and aromas
ĦöΨŎÿáΨ ÝáņáłŎΉņΨ ÖĦœğŎŮ͜Ψ Ψ Ğœņă×Ψ ƅĘĘáÝΨŎÿáΨŎáğŎ͜Ψ Ψ Ŀáłöá×ŎΨ öĦłΨĘăŧáĘŮΨ
conversations, joyous laughter and dancing of course.
This combination of the cool desert breezes, the
artistry of the tent, the excitement of the guests, delectable
gourmet dining, music, and the ethereal glow of the pyramids
created a mystical and unforgettable experience. “ Egyptian
Chic” was the requested attire and guest did not disappoint with
designers Cavalli, Versace, Indian Sherwanis, Egyptian Caftans,
Armani.
The star of the evening ,Holly Baxter in the most
stunning gold Jenny Packham gown (worn by Princess of Wales a
few months ago) outshone the pyramids. Time stood still.
It was a celebration that embraced the richness of
the desert and the joy of coming together, creating memories
that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Holly Baxter: “We don’t know what the future
holds for any of us; what lifts us up is celebrating life, love and
friendship”.
Happy Birthday, Holly.
Heide Betz
Eussel Martinelli, Rosalyn Chen, Nancy Lam, Jennifer Carrenard and Jason Gan
Holly Baxter
Claudia Juestel and Holly Baxter
Holly Baxter and Dr. Zahi Hawass
Nancy Lam
Holly Baxter
Kellie Menendez and Kenneth Birdwell
Kellie Menendez
Holly Baxter and Dr. Zahi Hawass
Russel Martinelli and Nancy Lam
Tonny Baars abd Mark Calvano
Kellie Menendez
Anjan Mitra
Russel Martinelli
Kellie Menendez, Holly Baxter and Sara Goulder
Heide Betz and Joel Goodrich
Joel Goodrich