Paloma around town: LED Christmas trees, U2 in action and a calendar launch
We did some serious reminiscing this past weekend, as we watched U2 live in concert, in Mumbai; the final stop on their Joshua Tree tour. Truckloads of Chennai peeps made the trip to be there, and no surprises that it was the highlight of my week. So bear with me for spending a big chunk of this week’s column waxing on about the experience. The crowd comprised mostly of Gen X, and a smattering of millennials, with a good ‘hard core fan’ to ‘I know the popular faves’ ratio. Thankfully, they did play all our favourites not just from the album but from across the decades, right up to their most recent hits. As expected, the visuals were a real delight, from start to finish, and we sang along to our heart’s content.
Meanwhile, back in Chennai the launch of the Sahodaran Annual Calendar was underway at Kommune. As always, the fashion fraternity turned up in full strength, from designers and models, to stylists and make up artists, everyone was there to support and congratulate Sunil Menon and the team. For the first time, people got to see a behind the scenes video, and a sneak peak into the making of these fabulous images that we’re treated to, year on year. The 2020 Calendar titled ‘Sentience’ depicts 12 mythological stories featuring male, female and transgender models.
On the Christmas front, we experienced the last few tree lighting ceremonies starting off at the InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram, followed by ITC Grand Chola. Sustainabilty was the common factor, and while the former put up a coastal-themed tree made with 700 coconuts, the latter showed off a 16-foot tall LED creation. Across town, Local XO’s Christmas Market was in full swing at Novotel OMR, with guests enjoying loads of deliciousness at the outdoor picnic style market. Families enjoyed the beautiful set up and atmosphere, while doing their best to try out everything on offer. And while we’re on the subject of family fun, this week also saw people lining up to watch the Little Theatre’s pantomime Popaii in Hawaii at The Museum Theatre. They did not disappoint, with loads of amazing performances, along with fun for the audience.