Since its foundation the Russian Club of Luxembourg has established a broad range of related non-profit organisations aimed at promoting Russian culture and strengthening ties with the Grand Duchy.
One of its main spin-offs, the Russian Charity Ball is an annual highlight. The sixth ball takes place on 14 January 2017, at the Cercle Cité.
“The first Russian ball took place in 2011,” says Nadejda Muller, president of the Russian Charity Ball in Luxembourg. Originally from Siberia, Muller speaks five languages, including Luxembourgish, and has lived in Luxembourg for 16 years. “I think it is so successful because it is a glamorous event, rich with Russian culture and warmth. People come back year after year for the experience.”
For many Russians living in Luxembourg the event coincides with the Russian Orthodox celebration of Christmas as well as the Christian Epiphany celebrations, making it accessible to all denominations. “Whilst many attendees are Russian,” adds Muller, “we also have Luxembourgers, Europeans and other nationalities attending. In fact, it was similar balls that take place in Vienna, London, Monaco and across the globe that inspired us. There is always something for everyone!”
The menu is typically Russian and includes specialties such as karavai (a sweet, aromatic bread traditionally served at festivities), caviar and gelée de vodka, as well as smoked trout and lobster. Alongside the opulent feast, there will be a variety of entertainment including a fashion show, performances from the Russian harpist Anastasia Sergeeva and Chic Planet Orchestra with Tatiana Reshetnikova.
Nadejda Muller of the Russian Charity Ball in a portrait taken at the Cercle Cité for Delano in November 2016 by Lala La Photo
“The dancing is always a highlight of the evening for me,” says Muller. “The atmosphere is very amicable as our guests have known each other for many years, they really enjoy the event.”
In addition to providing an evening of entertainment and cultural exchange, the ball also supports two important children’s charities, SOS Villages d’Enfants Monde and Podsolnuh. Through SOS Villages d’Enfants Monde, the ball supports a facility in Pskov, and a project in the Ukraine called Tomolino.
The Podsolnuh (Sunflower) Foundation purchases medicines for children suffering from primary immunodeficiency. This is a rare disease that causes the development of severe chronic infections and the inflammation of organs and tissues. “Without treatment, children with PI can become terminally ill particularly as a direct result of infectious complications,” explains Muller.
Over the last five years, €230,000 has been raised to support these charities.
Tickets to the ball are not freely available to the public but via the balls’ sponsors, partners and previous attendees. For details, contact [email protected].
This article was first published in the Winter 2017 issue of Delano magazine. Be the first to read Delano articles on paper before they’re posted online, plus read exclusive features and interviews that only appear in the print edition, by subscribing online.