On Saturday November 5th, the Mon Sheong Foundation marked its 25th Annual Cathay Ball enriching its guests and patrons with the charity and culture of their past endeavours in this year’s Peony Masquerade Ball. The Cathay Ball was a night of elegance through the portrayal of cultural performances and astonishing ambiance depicted in its portrayal of the foundation’s culture and history. Special guests at this sold out event included Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Hon. Elizabeth Dowdeswell and former Senator of Canada, Hon. Dr. Vivienne Poy.
The theme of “The Peony Masquerade,” as explained by this year’s co-chairs, Grace Chan and Amy Tam, was chosen to supplement the traditional masquerade ball with the unique symbolism portrayed by the peony. The vast allure of the peony was depicted in the masks as it resembles an exquisite blossom depicting the honour and prosperity of traditional Chinese culture. Over 1,300 guests with peony mask in hand gathered to celebrate this year’s festivities in hopes to provide care towards the less fortunate.
The night started off with a reception and a silent auction with over 200 specially selected items and collectibles. The most expensive silent auction item was sponsored by Air Canada for 2 business class tickets to anywhere in the world starting which was auctioned off at a price of $10,800. This event had received generous support from many individual donors and sponsors including CIBC, MediSystem Pharmacy and Air Canada.
The entertainment portion provided an enriching flare of diverse styles and genres including the classical singing, classical music by Laurel String Trio, ballroom dancing performances and latin dancing performances. Guests were also quite engaged and treated with the energetic and upbeat movements of a Samba piece performed by Rsdivas Creative.
The Cathay Ball charity gala will be providing the nights proceeds to create long-term care facilities and fund other charitable services. The Mon Sheong Foundation has established a wide range of programs since 1964 to help those in need in particular the elderly regarding long-term care facilities, community involvement initiatives, and multicultural awareness.
In commemoration of the 25th year anniversary of the Cathay Ball, CIBC has donated 25 Year of the Rooster silver coins produced by the Royal Canadian Mint, awarded to the lucky draw winners. A pair of premium economy Air Canada tickets from Toronto to Europe was also in a special raffle.
More information about the Cathay Ball or the Mon Sheong Foundation can be found at:
https://cathayball.monsheong.org
https://www.monsheong.org
Photos by James Shay
