The National Railroad Workers Union had its annual party in early December. Ian and I went - of course - and Ian was recognized as a "special guest." And this year he got the present just like the rest of the important people!
The Railroad Union party was held this year in the old Postal Palace. It was built in 1907 and restored recently. The building is beautiful with open ironwork and muted golds and pinks. This is looking down from the 2nd floor balcony at the floor below. Note the models all dressed alike and lining the stairs: there were probably 50 young women wearing make-up for the stage and identical black evening dresses. It was probably not above 50 degrees in the place, and the poor girls had to stand around and watch the rest of us have a party. They were probably all sick the next day.
There was a big Christmas tree right in the center of the foyer.
The musical portion of the evening opened with a semi-a capella group who began dressed in 17th (?) century gear, singing presumably 17th century music. They changed at a short intermission into Mexican garb from about 100 years ago (to honor the centennial of the Revolution) and changed their music to match.
This private concert, like last year's, featured a full orchestra with two - count 'em TWO - bassoons! The Millennium Symphony Orchestra played for about 90 minutes, and the conductor, though limited in space to really move around, put his whole body into the direction. The music showcased nearly all the sections at least once. It was spectacular.
The music continued through dinner (served at 11 PM) with electric violins and two ladies singing new-age style music.
And a chocolate mousse in a chocolate train car with chocolate "gold" for dessert!
