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Traditional - that was the operative word for ushering in the New Year. And
the Bellbirds Club delivered yet again. As the band KOPYKATZ started up
somewhat tentenativly for the first few numbers, the club's dynamic Roger
Foenander whispered his personal perceptions in Gordon Rebeira's ears that
the guests were in a swinging mood which called for 'upping the tempo'.
And didn't the Kopykatz oblige with gusto. From then on, one
couldn't find room for one foot on the floor, let alone the obligatory four,
lead-footed or otherwise. These 'katz' - Gordon Rebeira, Gehan Gunasekera,
Darrel de Silva, Cliff Willenberg and vocalist Nihara Loos- know how best to
let those rhythm hungry revellers, all 230 something of them, on the loose.
That was not all. The ambiance. What about the ambiance? The red
and silver accented decor was impeccable. The table arrangements were done
with a precision that made it so guest-friendly, needing little or no
direction from helpful ushers. Hotel service was beyond par. Three-course
dinner was delightful. After those palate-pleasing hors de ores, a bottle
of scotch, two bottles of wine and plenty of soft drinks per table of 10 was
a splendid touch. And the much-looked forward to raffle draw proved most
worthwhile with that fine array of valuable prizes, much to the delight of
the winners.
A perfect recipe for blending the nostalgia of farewell with the
welcome to renewal, hope and prosperity.
By 11.30 PM hats, bells, hooters and whistles were donned and
revellers thronged on to the ever-diminishing dance floor space. Soon after,
Nihara Loos started the countdown to midnight. Then came the traditional
kisses and hugs to partners and loved ones and everyone wishing each other
tidings of a new and better times ahead.
From Auld Lang Syne to all those traditional New Year perennials,
the band played on. And would have played on and on if not for the
inevitable constraints of time and space. All good things must...
Undoubtedly the kudos go to the hardworking Bellbirds committee for
their now renowned dedication and tireless efforts in keeping a good show
on the road. Even though a depleted committee of Brian Mack, Cindy Hesse,
Dorothy MacIntyre, Hyacinth Jones and Roger Foenander was available on the
night - others being away on pre-planned and well-deserved holidays overseas
and still others honouring unavoidable family commitments - on all accounts
the New Year's Eve Ball was a grand success. We doff our hats to the
fabulous five and their partners who made our New Year celebration such an
unforgettable one.
Hip, hip, hooray to the Bellbirds!
Click here to view an album of photos by Doug Jones |
