Bright Lights 2021
It’s one more month ‘til the end of 2021 and we can all agree that it has been a difficult year. Lives lost, businesses closed, dreams dashed and lives that have been forever altered are just some of the disruptions that occurred this year. I can’t help but think of what lies ahead. Will there be an end to the pandemic? Will the coming elections bring about a change? For some, the questions get even closer to home. Where will my next meal come from? Where can I find a job and provide for my family? There are no answers yet to all this, but we remain hopeful. I have placed my faith in God that there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how long that tunnel will be.
Even today there are ‘bright lights’ that shine in this bleakness. Restaurants and business are re-opening, and as a proof that the pulse is back in the city, just check out the increase in road traffic. This month, we pay homage to these ‘bright lights’ starting with 22 individuals and six places that have brought inspiration as well as that much-needed joy in our heart.
Monique Lhuillier, a woman who has brought pride and honour to the country, celebrates her 25th anniversary this year as she turns 50 years old. She shares how she navigated through this pandemic and where she plans to take her much loved and in-demand fashion brand.
Someone you need to know is Tony award-winning set and costume designer Clint Ramos whose rise to the top of his game is truly encouraging. In this issue, he tells us about his challenges and how he rose to be amongst the giants in the theatre and movie world.
And then there’s our cover lady who needs no introduction, a great friend of Tatler, Sofia Zobel Elizalde. She has spent most of her life helping the arts, specifically in dance, giving talented children a better shot in life through her Steps Foundation. She is likewise the co-chair of Museo Pambata, a children’s museum in Manila as well as an advocate for animal welfare. She shares with us the importance of art, passion and purpose in this month’s issue: “Art is so important, especially in these difficult times ... It’s a form of expression whether it’s through painting, or dance and movement, or song. For the artist, it’s a way of release, of having a voice and making a statement. I do believe that great art is created during arduous times. ”
And we have more! The beautiful wedding of former Filipino newscaster, lifestyle host and now award-winning news anchor in the US Cher Calvin; an interview with photographer and world traveller Aline Coquelle on her new book, Polo Heritage; and travel notes of Jessica Kienle Maxwell who takes us to South Africa, sharing with us breath-taking photos and the travails and rewards of travelling in the pandemic.
As we begin to celebrate the holidays, let’s continue to pray for our country, for the season to give us faith, hope, peace, love and a respite from the sadness brought about by the health crisis. We hope you will truly be inspired by this issue and see you next month for the unveiling of our much-awaited 300 list.