A Night for the Oscars: The 2014 Academy Ball

Cultura’s secretary, Melvin Lauron, shares his insights on his organization’s Annual Academy Ball held at Solaire, Manila.

The Cotillion Dancers
L-R: Mady Villanueva, Manny Sia, Dominique Beato, Karen Lim, Dave Villarosa, Belle Litton, Mikki Bunag, Andrea Zaidem, Bonn Acidera, Justin Baradas, Jan Cerazo (Choreographer), KC Dejos, Natalie Sze, Dan Amahan, Patricia Lopez & Mano Ramos

If I could but sum up the night in a phrase it would be one spoken by my good friend, Sabrina. “This feels so much like prom!” In many aspects it was indeed like prom; but one could not help but also feel a certain air of maturity to the event – this is what defined the Graduation Ball, as something unlike a prom. Those who attended were not just students there for a good time, but ladies and gentlemen ready to be regaled by the grandeur of the night.

To narrate all the events of the night would be quite a daunting task. Something that should be done not only by myself, but by all those who attended. Each person saw the night from a different perspective, but in each of those perspectives there was a commonality. The one thing that people could not fail to see was the fact that the night was full of smiles and laughter. The good food and service that was given to all was uplifting. People cheered and applauded left and right. That was the essence of the night’s commonality.

There was also an air of finality to the night as it was the last event the current Cultura ExeCom would orchestrate. It was also the final hurrah for many of the graduating students who were there. There was a passing of the torch in my eyes; the old guard leaving a legacy for the new to further enhance. This was prevalent in another partnering organization, Soundcast; where the graduating members gave life to their performances as though it was their last.

Being themed after the Oscars: Old Hollywood, there were a number of awards given out. There was a best-dressed competition, which was won by Mady Villanueva and Ash Eduarte, as well as the best couple of the night awarded to Mikki Buñag and Belle Litton. Other awards that were also given were the head-turner awards, the Tresseme award, and recognition to the Dean’s Listers. Awards were also handed over to many of the people that supported Cultura for the year.

The Awardees:
“Brad Pitt Award” – Ash Eduarte
“Angelina Jolie Award” – Mady Villanueva

In addition to the awards, the night would not have been complete without a raffle from Cultura’s various sponsors. The festivities did not seem to cease that night and it also would not be left without a cause. The Tzu Chi foundation was given a donation by Cultura for their charitable efforts, especially in their dealings and assistance given to the victims of typhoon Yolanda. Supporting charitable organizations has been a tradition well maintained by the organization; another legacy for the future.

L-R: Justin Baradas, Paolo Reyes & Mikki Bunag
Justin & Mikki were given recognition for winning gold in the culinary competition.

There is not much left to say about the Ball. As mentioned, all who were present at the event saw the Ball in a different light. In the search for objectivity, one’s research must begin with the guests and their experiences; but if curiosity truly conquers you, why not attend the next Academy Ball, and experience it yourself?