Abel Ndooka
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Lifestyle Editor
“Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” — Oprah Winfrey.
This statement resonates deeply as we step into the new year, reflecting the hope and possibility that each fresh start brings.
As the clock strikes midnight, the air fills with excitement and hope, ushering in the promise of new beginnings. Indeed, new year.
A drone show ushered the invited guests into 2025, outside the grandeur of Rainbow Towers.
It displayed the face of President Mnanagwa, businessman Kuda Tagwireyi, the Seventh Day Adventist logo and wished everyone a Happy New Year!
Wow that was magic in the air!
The Celestial Chorus Volume 2, Soirée Party, a dazzling celebration in the heart of Harare, at the Rainbow Towers, perfectly embodied this spirit of renewal and gratitude.
Like they say, some said, ‘‘can anything good come out of Nazareth . . . ’’, the same with the famous Rainbow Towers hotel, who knew it could look like Harrods in the United Kingdom.
Magnificent, superb and extravagant plumage.
Designed to unite communities through the enchanting power of music and culture, this event transformed the night into a vibrant tapestry of connection and joy.
Running under the theme, “Bridging Gap”, guests gathered to celebrate and they were reminded that each new year offers an opportunity to reflect on the past, learn from it, and forge ahead with renewed purpose.
But wait a minute. There were those old men and women from the villages, eleganty dressed up in striking executive plumage booked in hotel rooms where they painted everything elegant.
With a theme steeped in thanksgiving, the soirée welcomed 3 000 attendees into a world of elegance and harmony, where laughter and melodies intertwined, creating an atmosphere destined to be both unforgettable and transformative.
In moments like these, we understand that the essence of celebration lies not just in the festivities, but in the connections, we foster and the memories we create.
The ‘‘Celestial Chorus Volume 2, Soirée’’ stood as a testament to the beauty of coming together, celebrating life’s moments, and embracing the promise of the year ahead, reminding us that every ending is a new beginning.
Well for those lost, a soirée is more than just a gathering; it embodies a celebration of life and connection, marked by elegance and charm.
Characterised by intimate settings, exquisite decor, and delightful music, soirées provide an opportunity for guests to mingle, share stories, and create lasting memories.
The essence of a soirée lies in its atmosphere — each detail meticulously curated to invite guests into a world of sophistication and joy.
One of the most extravagant soirées in recent history took place in the opulent halls of the Palace of Versailles, where a luxurious gala unveiled a high-end fashion line.
With a guest list that included celebrities, dignitaries, and influencers from across the globe, the event featured lavish dining, a live symphony performance, and decor that left attendees in awe.
The soirée reportedly cost several million dollars, showcasing the pinnacle of extravagance where creativity knows no bounds.
In a similar spirit, the Celestial Soirée, held in Harare, captured the very essence of what makes such gatherings unforgettable.
In an interview with the head planner Kevin Zhou affectionately known as ‘‘Kevin -The Wedding Planner,’’ he said this vibrant celebration, which took nearly a year to plan, was designed to unite communities through the power of music and gratitude.
“With its monochromatic black and white aesthetic, the event transported 2 500 guests into a realm of elegance and warmth, reminiscent of the grandeur seen in the most famous soirées around the world,” he said.
As the evening unfolded, the atmosphere was alive with laughter, music and the clinking of glasses.
The scent of fresh flowers mingled with the sounds of laughter, while soft melodies drifted through the air, creating an ambiance that feels both luxurious and intimate.
Each element — from the carefully curated menu featuring local and internationally sourced delicacies like Japanese Wagyu beef, to the dynamic stage design inspired by the iconic Zimbabwe Bird — was crafted to create a sensory feast.
“The Celestial Chorus Volume 2 Soirée wasn’t just an event; it was an experience, echoing the enchanting allure of the world’s most illustrious soirées while celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of Zimbabwe.”
As the evening unfolded, the air buzzed with anticipation, laughter, and the sweet melodies of talented artistes, creating an atmosphere that promised to be both unforgettable and transformative.
Kevin said; “The décor, meticulously arranged, featured cascading white drapes that framed the space, while soft candlelight flickered gently, casting a warm glow across elegantly set tables. Each table was adorned with exquisite floral arrangements, combining local blooms with imported exotic flowers, creating a stunning visual tapestry that mirrored the event’s theme.”
The culinary experience was nothing short of extraordinary.
Chef Dananai and her team had created a menu that celebrated both local flavours and international cuisine.
“Guests savoured dishes such as rolled beef infused with traditional spices, local Kudu game meat, and the exquisite Florentine T-bone, all while enjoying a selection of vegan and vegetarian options sourced from Zurich.
“Each bite was a testament to the dedication and creativity of the culinary team, designed to tantalise the taste buds and ignite conversations at each table.”
As the music began to swell, the atmosphere transformed. Adding to the production effect, show producer Rumbidzai Matinanga said that the event featured a mix of genres, from gospel to contemporary African music, showcasing the rich musical heritage of the region.
“The sounds of live performances by renowned artists filled the air, drawing guests to the dance floor. Our line up included Everton Mlalazi, Janet Manyowa, Xola Toto, Robert C Guy, Natasha Mlalazi, Fisani Masinga, Rudo Madindi, Canaan Nyathi, Mmatema and Khaya Mtethwa among others.
“The guests were carefully selected by the patrons of Bridging Gaps Foundation led by businessman Dr Kudakwashe Tagwireyi. We had guests from as far away as Zambia, US, Australia, Zambia and South Africa,” she said
Surprisingly musician Everton Mlalazi was the host of the concert, which saw the top notch artistes performing SDA hyminals, putting a scintillating show.
The dinner was hosted by Tafadzwa Rangarira and Ronald Mangena. As guests moved to the rhythm, smiles spread across their faces, and the spirit of unity that the soirée aimed to foster became palpable. The event’s organisers had crafted not just a gathering, but a narrative woven through every aspect of the evening.
Matinanga, understood that the magic of such events lies in the shared experiences they create.
“This isn’t just an event; it’s a celebration of our community, our culture, and our connections,” she noted.
She believes that a successful soirée is all about the details — each carefully chosen element contributes to an atmosphere that enchants and inspires.
“A soirée should feel like an embrace, welcoming each guest into a world crafted just for them,” she said.
With a guest list that included celebrities, dignitaries, and influencers from around the globe, the soirée featured exquisite dining, a live performance by a renowned symphony, and decor that left attendees in awe.
Closed sources revealed that the event reportedly cost several thousands of dollars, showcasing the heights of extravagance that can be reached when creativity knows no bounds.
“Every event is a story waiting to be told,” she explained.
“I want each guest to leave with a memory that lingers long after the last note has faded.”
It is this philosophy that drives Matinanga to continuously innovate, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of event planning.
Celestial patron, Dr Kudakwashe Tagwireyi, urged youths to dedicate themselves to the Lord’s work, taking the presence of the Minister of Youth, his Deputy, and the Permanent Secretary as a significant endorsement. He emphasised that in these challenging times, it was crucial for young people to stand up and make their presence felt, not just by being counted, but by becoming active advocates for democracy.
“I want to encourage you, because we are in a war, that you are going to stand up and be counted. Stand up, not only to be counted, but stand up and become a soldier, a soldier of democracy. That’s the other challenge,” he said.
He also encouraged people to always be a friend to all and enemy to none and strive to make positive history in whatever they touch.
“I hope with this New Year, you will be able to encourage yourself to see your enemy as your friend. That is what I want you to do, and that way you become a better person because of your faith. And that is what I pray for, and that is what I wish for. And I hope that all of what you do is going to make history in our country.”
However, the glitz and glam event saw top regional and local gospel musicians such as Janet Manyowa, Everton Mlalazi who doubled as host of the night and entertainer, Natasha Mlalazi, Blue and Tadiwa, Xola Toto, Fisani, Rudo Madindi, Khaya Mthethwa, Mmatema and Canaan Nyathi sharing the stage as they dished out SDA popular hyminal songs.
