Marquees make magic come alive
LAVISH, extravagant, plush and posh.
These were some of the words you could use to describe the marquees at the Vodacom Durban July held yesterday at Greyville racecourse.
Nothing beats having an entry into one of the high-end marquees, where just about every whim is catered for, while still enjoying the excitement of the races.
Tent town was abuzz and organisers went all out to cater for their guests, with no costs spared.
Black and red seemed to have been “The Colour of Magic” which was the theme of this year’s event, when it came to decor. They were accessorised with white and gold.
Durban businessman Vivian Reddy hosted guests at his double-deck SVR marquee.
Reddy is known for spoiling his friends and business partners with first class hospitality.
His marquee was inspired by a classic Hollywood theme. A black runway was the focal point, gold champagne glasses were stacked in pyramids, and vases with fresh red roses used as centrepieces.
Red and black leather Lighting at DJ Tira’s Afrotainment marquee. couches filled the glass marquee, which was also air-conditioned.
White couches with plump cushions decorated with comic characters added a touch of fun and comfort.
There was a separate “chilling” area where guests could watch and listen to live performances, and a Fashion TV lounge with a photo booth.
Durban-based commercial radio station, Gagasi FM made its debut this year with the Gagasi Red Star Experience marquee which accommodated more than 1 000 guests.
Phinda Magwaza, Gagasi’s head of brand, said the set up was able to accommodate people who wanted to enjoy music and performances.
“Red complements our corporate colour, we have a mixture of red and white elegance but it’s not too serious.
“This signifies the magical growth we have achieved as Gagasi FM in the past 11 years.
It is the first time we have hosted an entire hospitality marquee with few partners. Guests can relax while entertained by our DJS and artists,” said Magwaza.
DJ Tira’s Afrotainment marquee, which included a VIP area, had 300 guests.
Draped in gold and black, and dotted with chandeliers, the marquee created a nightclub effect.
Durban businessman Mabheleni Ntuli’s marquee, which was arguably one of the biggest at Greyville, also used white and red as its main colour theme.
His marquee also hosted celebrities and politicians.