Lovely debutante Joanna dela Paz Robles, daughter of Sta. Lucia Realty Development president Exequiel and wife Matilde “Diding” Robles, could not have chosen a better venue for her coming of age party—Metropolitan Park’s Le Pavilion on Roxas Boulevard. The huge tent was converted into a simulated rainforest, which was indeed a sight to behold.

Throughout the party, Joanna had a total of four costume changes wearing gowns by top designers Rajo Laurel for the grand entrance, Larry Espinosa for the cotillion de honor, Francis Libran for the program, and a fabulous party dress by Michael Leyba.

Thespian Menchu Lauchengco was the host for the evening, and also sang beautiful songs for the debutante and her guests. Not to be outdone though were musical performances by Joanna’s dad and mom; sister, Michelle; brother, Mike and his fiancée Ivy; and sister-in-law Kit. Wow! What a talented family.

The highlight of the program was of course Joanna, who sang “I’m the World’s Greatest,” in which she was joined by classmates and friends from school, where she is in her senior year.

Other guests were top business associates and close friends of her parents.

To Joanna, we wish you more birthdays to come and welcome to the Manila’s Society Circle!

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Meanwhile, The Dusit Thani Manila is once again the official home of another international hit musical show, Mamma Mia! Other Broadway that made the hotel its official residence, include Cats, Cinderella, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Sweet Charity.

Mamma Mia is a story of a villa owner’s daughter who is about to get married. Not knowing who her real father is, she invites three men in her mother’s life to figure out who should walk her down the aisle. Featured music are the songs of the group ABBA like “I have a dream;” “Chiquitita;” “Dancing Queen;” “Money, Money, Money;” “The winner takes it all;” “Take a chance on me;” and more.

The hotel is currently offering “The Mamma Mia Room Package” until February 18, which includes an overnight Stay, buffet breakfast for two persons at Basix All-Day Dining Restaurant; two tickets to the Mamma Mia Show, plus complimentary round trip car transfer to and from Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Main Theater. A limited edition original cast recording CD will also be given away as a special commemorative gift to Club and Grand Room guests.