NIDA ANNUAL FOUNDATION TRUST GALA DINNER 2012 | NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF DRAMATIC ART

The Saturday night before last, was quite a night!! I was invited to NIDA’s annual Foundation Trust fundraising Gala Dinner held at the National Institute of Dramatic Art. An array of almost 300 guests including familiar faces of our Australian stage and screen, prominent NIDA alumni, Sydney fashion identities and industry representatives attended. Here are some images I snapped on the night! (except for the one directly above and below by Patrick Riviere)

The night themed ‘Trip the Light Fantastic!’ was entertaining from beginning to end. Upon arriving, sharp dressed ushers welcomed guests to the NIDA courtyard lit up with a large crescent moon light and sparkle lights netted over trees. As guests mingled and filled, it was time to head inside for dinner. Before we did, there was a showcase of some incredibly constructed costumes created by NIDA students, whilst magical music and singing serenaded us into into the NIDA foyer where tables were beautifully set. It felt almost like a fantasy ball party with coloured lights. I was seated at a table with great company, including Vanessa Gray, Grace Huang, Sophie Lowe, Emma Lung, Morgan Griffen, Alyx Gorman and Jessica.

There was not a moment where us guests were not entertained, even in between a menu that sparkled our palettes, created by Matt Moran. With a witty and funny pair of hosts, to beautiful acoustic singing performances, to fencing acts, to acrobatic dancing, to a ruffle act by Tempus Two Wines waiters, to the hilarious auctioneer Justin Miller, every moment made for a fun night! It felt like I was in high school again. The fun, energy and talent on stage creating such entertainment was refreshing.

The night ended with NIDA students paying tribute to their favourite rockstars, performing, dressing up and lip sync singing as we danced. Some of the line up included Tina Turner, ACDC and Michael Jackson. If the night was not already amazing enough, I won a Bulgari gift from a draw (a lucky raffle winner won an amazing Bulgari ring! - pictured) and guests were delivered home by an Audi.

The night was not only a celebration of talent but also a reminder of the importance of support and how it can shape the future of their careers. Often creativity can be limited to support. Imagine musicians, artists, designers or even bloggers without their listeners, admirers, consumers or readers, it simply would not be possible for them to succeed. Writing a blog myself, I know the importance of readers and it keeps me motivated to keep creating content.

Can't wait for next year's gala!

I'm wearing G-Star Blazer, Obey Shirt (from Glue Store) & Vanguard Chinos.