For ICMSA's 60th anniversary, we weren't interested in simply hosting a Gala Dinner. We wanted to create a lasting memory. After all, many of our guests have attended countless events and have high expectations. Based on volumous feedback received, the evening delivered the surprise, delight and sense of occasion we had hoped for.
So, we thought we'd share some of the creative thinking behind the evening, while again thanking the incredible Sofitel Sydney Wentworth and Encore teams who helped bring it to life.
Led by the vision of CEO Emma Bowyer and Director of Event Strategy Lili Lin, the creative premise was simple: celebrate as people might have 60 years ago, when a black-tie Gala Dinner meant French champagne, glamour, elegant hospitality, thrilling entertainment and unapologetic decadence.
Arriving at our event, guests walked the white carpet to a floral-framed pressed metal media wall before being offered a glass of French bubbles from the adjacent champagne tower and hors d'oeuvres from a suite of formally attired wait staff. Those with a love of oysters and caviar were quick to see the nearby ice sculpture bar full-to-the-brim, alongside diamond margaritas specially created for the evening.
When doors opened, guests immediately reached for their phones as they entered the room which held three mirror-clad stages, generous dining sets, sculptural florals and twinkling candles. The concept was of walking into a memory, brought to life by the vintage white grand piano perched on centre stage and the floor-to-ceiling sheer curtains, through which black and white imagery celebrating the people and moments that have shaped ICMSA’s history.
On stage was our “show caller” performative-only of course, guiding guests through the experience and bringing the often invisible craft of event production into the spotlight. Interwoven throughout were words inspired by late Chairman Bryan Holliday, whose wisdom continues to resonate: ‘Only amateurs don’t rehearse’, ‘Class: Stamp it on everything you do’ and ‘With social events, always aim for thunderstorm moments, not constant drizzle’.
Acknowledgement to the company’s past – REFLECTION - including the work and achievements of past owners and directors by Emma in the only formalities of the night, gave way to the present day – REFRACTION – where colour started to seep into the visuals and entertainment grew more vibrant and theatrical.
Cue CJ Jones. The rising prodigy of the hit ABC Show The Piano who, at 17, showcased his raw talent, reminding us that a gift this pure is a treasure.
The transition to the future – RADIANCE – culminated in a burlesque inspired act whose energetic and engaging set saw guests revelling in the bright lights, with a touch of Diamond-inspired show tunes. More life, more colour, more feeling and more fun for all!
The evening concluded with a 60th birthday cake cutting, an audience choir of Happy Birthday and hand-made gifts containing a personalised thank you card with a mirror (as a reflection of the night) and a stunning oversized resin diamond filled with golden wattle – ICMSA’s official floral emblem.
Sixty years is a remarkable milestone. Rather than just looking back, the Diamond Soirée became a celebration of where ICMSA has been, where it stands today and the bright future still ahead. A night of reflection, refraction and radiance. 💎✨
