Hong Kong Ballet is delighted to announce that the Hong Kong Ballet Ball, one of the most prestigious charity events of Hong Kong social calendar, will be held on Saturday, 19th January 2008 at the Grand Ballroom of InterContinental Hotel. With the theme of "Jewels" this year, the Gala is most privileged to have Julius Baer, Switzerland's leading dedicated wealth manager, as Title Sponsor, as well as
Van Cleef & Arpels, a long-term supporter of the Hong Kong Ballet Ball, as Luxury Sponsor.
Inspired by the jewellery of Van Cleef & Arpels, the world's renowned choreographer George Balanchine created the ballet Jewels which debuted in New York in 1967. The ballet is comprised of three acts, each named after a different gemstone (Emeralds, Rubies and Diamonds). In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the triptych ballet Jewels, Van Cleef & Arpels pays tribute to the creator by launching the new "Ballet Précieux" High Jewellery collection, which will be showcased for the first time in Asia Pacific at the Gala.
To celebrate the partnership with the Hong Kong Ballet and Julius Baer, Van Cleef & Arpels will host a cocktail reception on Tuesday, 11th December 2007 at 7pm, Van Cleef & Arpels Prince's Building Boutique. All invited guests will have an exclusive chance to preview the "Pulcinella" Ballerina Clip, a one-of-a-kind jewel from the exquisite "Ballet Précieux" collection, offered by the House to be auctioned off at the forthcoming Ballet Ball.
This is the first time Julius Baer will sponsor the Ballet Ball. They have a strong connection to the arts. Andrea Benenati, CEO North Asia for Julius Baer comments, "Since we opened our Hong Kong office, we have been looking for great opportunities to support the development of culture in Hong Kong in a manner which relevant to our ultra high net worth clientele. The Hong Kong Ballet Ball sponsorship provides a perfect stage to achieve this goal".
In addition to their involvement with the Hong Kong Ballet, Julius Baer will present two achievement awards of the Company's selected stars at the Gala. The exclusive wealth manager is a keen supporter of ballet development around the world and has recently confirmed its sponsorship of the Prix de Lausanne, the internationally renowned ballet competition for talented young dancers. In 2008, competitors from Asian countries including China, Japan, the Philippines and Korea will compete with ballerinas from other regions for scholarships to leading ballet schools.
Enquiries: Ms Meiyee Wong at +852 2105 9712 or meiyee_wong@hkballet.com.
Notes to Editors:
About Julius Baer Group
Julius Baer Group is the leading dedicated wealth manager in Switzerland. The Group, which has roots dating to the nineteenth century, concentrates exclusively on asset management for discerning private and institutional clients as well as on the management and distribution of investment funds. The Private Banking business and the Investment Products unit comprise Bank Julius Baer, which has an Aa3 rating from Moody's. Other core companies of the Group are GAM, a global leader in active asset management, and the specialised fund and institutional asset management company Julius Baer Investment Management (USA).
Julius Baer Holding Ltd., whose shares are listed at the SWX Swiss Exchange, is the parent company of the Julius Baer Group. The Julius Baer Group's global presence comprises more than 30 locations in Europe, North America, Latin America and Asia, including Zurich (head office), Buenos Aires, Dubai, Frankfurt, Geneva, Hong Kong, London, Lugano, New York, Singapore and Tokyo. With more than 3 800 employees worldwide, the Group managed assets in excess of CHF 400 billion at the end of June 2007.
For more information: www.juliusbaer.com or phone +852 2899 4839
About Van Cleef & Arpels
Founded in 1906, Van Cleef & Arpels began with a love story between Alfred Van Cleef and Estelle Arpels. Both from a family well-versed in the realm of jewellery, they turned a union into a legend of glamour and excellence.
With the first boutique opened in the most prominent square in Paris, Place Vendôme, a family saga began with a lifelong obsession for beauty and quality that passed through the 20th century and continues through the 21st century.
Van Cleef & Arpels' international fame spread rapidly ever since its inception and retains their reputation as leader of fine jewellery with over 65 boutiques worldwide. The use of the highest quality of gemstones, exceptional craftsmanship and aesthetically adventurous spirit in their creations ultimately catapults the House into International recognition.
For more information: www.vancleef-arpels.com or phone +852 2522 9677