The Peninsula Manila does it again!

The usually-understated elegance of The Peninsula Manila lobby was ablaze with gigantic heraldic angels with trumpets, yards and yards of lighted garlands crowned with verdant wreaths. And at the center of it all — a desired background to capture in pictures of cherished moments of the holiday season — was their iconic Christmas Tree.

Suffice to say, the beautifully-bedecked area was magically transformed in time for A Season of Joy Christmas Concert, their 39th annual celebration.

Round tables had extended families of several generations, while square ones were surrounded by close and dear friends. Tabletops were covered in gilded cloth and centerpieces of gold and silver balls in the spirit of the season.

The grand evening extravaganza starred Philippine musical theater star Bituin Escalante and actor-singer David Ezra. The Manila Symphony Orchestra, under the helm of none other than National Artist for Music, Maestro Ryan Cayabyab, serenaded the attendees with the overtures of “Beauty and the Beast,” “Superman,” “Magnificent 7” and “They’re Playing Our Song.” Joining them were the internationally-lauded Ateneo Chamber Singers.

Bituin and David belted our familiar tunes in an 80s medley of “Gold” by the Spandau Ballet, “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears and “Total Eclipse of the Heart” by Bonnie Tyler. Meanwhile, the Ateneo Chamber Singers delivered a rendition of “A Christmas Festival,” “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” and “Kampana ng Simbahan”

But the highlight of the show was George Frederick Handel’s “Hallelujah” from his oratorio, Messiah — a trademark of the holidays! The response? A clear clamor for an encore, with cheers and applause to no end.

The Company obliged. They all came together to present crowd favorite songs such as “Kumukutikutitap” by Maestro Cayabyab himself, the classic “A Christmas Carol” and the beloved “O Come All Ye Faithful.”

It was a definite feast for the senses!

Speaking of another feast, the accompanying dinner defied expectations. The curated menu began with Green Asparagus Veloute, followed by Foie Gras Mousse, Gluhwein Jelly, Seared Norwegian Salmon Verrine, and Shepherd Pie — all in gastronomic fashion. The culinary scene stealer for the evening was the Slow Roasted Wagyu Rib-eye, with Caramelized Onion, Gruyere Cheese, Serrano Ham, Focaccia Toast, Ahi Tuna, and Tartare Mille-Feuille. Guests likewise enjoyed a cheese and charcuterie board, which included Sour Cherry jam, Palawan Honey, Crackers and Lavosh Bread.

The sweet ending was a special Christmas-themed dessert, plus options of Buche De Noel with Passion Fruit and Soft Caramel, Fruit Rouge Tartlet with Raspberry jam and Cremeux, or Christmas Ball with Honey Mousse, Almond Glaze.

What a way wrap up their 39th! I can only dream of an even more spectacular 40th celebration.