It's not over until the fat lady sings… or so Yelper's thought before they experienced our Elite Event on Friday night. Given just an address and told that the night would be a feast for the senses, the crowd wasn't quite sure what to expect.
Waiting in the foyer of the magnificent heritage listed Horticultural Hall Yelpers asked one another what was in store…
Then the music started, singing could be heard, and the big double doors were opened to reveal a hall filled with food, drinks, costumes and floral display! At the centre of it all a grand piano and five opera singers welcomed the crowd with voices soaring.
Victorian Opera were our hosts for the evening. They set out to challenge some preconceived ideas about opera and if the look on Yelpers faces was anything to go by, I think they succeeded!
A large floral display, replete with terrariums and blooms of the edible kind came from Botanics and thrilled the noses of Yelpers who took the time to stop and smell the err… artichokes.
Tom from Red Cow educated Yelpers about Swiss cheese, perfectly complimented with a selection of Brasserie Bread. One of our favourites, Capi, kept us hydrated with mineral water, lemon fruit soda and spicy ginger beer.
Yelpers enjoyed locally made beer and cider from Coldstream Brewery, a variety on offer with the crowd favourite being the Czech Pilsner. Wine came from the Land Made Series of Yealands Estate Wine, a vineyard with a mission to put back to the land more than it takes out.
A drink or two consumed to boost confidence, then Yelpers had loads of fun trying on the Victorian Opera costumes for a laugh.
Markus Neilson was responsible for a never-ending supply of canapés including pulled pork sliders, and mini falafels. But the real star of the show? Ocean trout that had been cured in The West Winds Gin was available to sample with a huge array of condiments including crème fraîche, capers, rye bread and pickles.
Throughout the night members of the Victorian Opera performed beautiful musical pieces that commanded the attention of the entire room… yep, even those Yelpers who were busily stuffing Tivoli Road Bakery donuts (filled with salted caramel or lemon curd) into their mouths!
It's safe to say that all the senses were stimulated at this Elite event. After two hours Uber whisked Yelp Elites out and into the night to continue their Friday night shenanigans, with many wondering if they would be lucky enough to experience an encore performance in the future!
Thanks to all involved in making this an exceptional evening, including Rowan Murcott who captured all of the fun with his photographs!
To read what Yelper's have to say about the night, check out the reviews!
Want to get an invite to our next event? Check out how on the Elite page.
Until the next time…
SYOY (See You On Yelp!)
