The event, which will take place at YogaSutra Studio next Friday (June 2) from 10am to 8pm, will be led by a varied ensemble of 20 of Thailand’s leading yoga teachers including Satit Kingwongsa, Aom Moobantalay, and Sorawit “Eak” Chotsiripongsakorn from “Thailand’s Got Talent”.

The highlight of the day will be 108 rounds of the original version of Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutations) with live Mantra chanting by Kru Pond, a famous yoga teacher, who will also lead the Japayatri Kirtan band.

Established in 2003, YogaSutra is one of the pioneering Yoga studios in Thailand and boasts a spacious open-air practice room on the 32nd floor with breathtaking city views. It offers yoga classes suitable for and beneficial to all ages and fitness levels, for first timers as well as yogis who have already made yoga a part of their lives and would like to further their journey. On a clear day, you can even see the Cardamom mountains of Chanthaburi 200km away!

The all-day charity event will entirely benefit two School Development Projects for disadvantaged hilltribes: The Baan Sapun School in Nan and the Baan MaeLer Learning Centre in Mae Hong Son. Every single baht donated will go to these projects without any deduction for expenses.

The event is free. To register or to find out more, call (098) 670 6758. Join the conversation at Facebook.com/YogaSutraStudio.

IN ITS 19th year, Bangkok’s International Festival of Dance and Music again brings an eclectic collection of performances, from classical ballet to Broadway musicals, spread over five and a half weeks in September and October and with more than a thousand artists taking part.

Ballet – to be presented at the Thailand Cultural Centre – this year comes in for a great deal of attention. Giving audiences their fix of this art form will be the Ekaterinburg Ballet & Opera Theatre and Bashkir State Opera and Ballet Theatre from Russia, the Malandain Ballet Biarritz from France and the Stuttgart Ballet from Germany.

The Ekaterinburg Opera and Ballet Theatre is one of the oldest opera and ballet theatres in Russia. In April it won the Golden Mask in Moscow, recognising it as its home country’s best ballet company.

The company is presenting two classical works – the two-act “Katya & the Prince of Siam” on September 11 and a three-act “Cinderella” on September 13.

The new production of the romantic “Katya & the Prince of Siam” will see its world premiere in Bangkok. With a libretto by Yana Temiz and music by Pavel Ovsyannikov, this is the tale of Prince Chakrabongse and his romance with a beautiful Russian girl, Katya.

The young prince has been sent by his father the King of Siam, to the elite Page Corps in Russia, a move meant to cement diplomatic ties between the countries. Once there, the handsome prince is invited to social balls, and at one he meets Katya. They fall in love and the rest is history.

The ballet incorporates elements of Thai classical dance and is choreographed by Vasily Medvedev of the Bolshoi Theatre, an Honoured Artist of Estonia. Conducting the orchestra will be Mikhail Granovski, also of the Bolshoi.

Sergei Prokofiev’s “Cinderella” is one of his most popular compositions. Created between 1940 and 1944, it has inspired choreographers from the very first performance.

The full-scale production coming to Bangkok is choreographed by Vladimir Vasiliev, former principal dancer of the Bolshoi Theatre Ballet. It is the most magical and impressive staging of the ballet ever, with dazzling costumes, spectacular sets and a stage designed by award-winning Vyacheslav Okunev from St Petersburg, an honoured People’s Artist of Russia.

Also from Russia comes the Bashkir State Opera and Ballet Theatre, the original home company of the great Rudolf Nureyev. The theatre’s creative principles and traditions found reflection in Nureyev’s art – and the same principles and traditions guide the theatre even today, finding reflection in all their productions.

In Bangkok, the troupe will present the three-act “Spartacus” on September 15 and a three-act “Le Corsaire” on September 17. Both are choreographed and staged by the esteemed Yuri Grigorovich, who’s been the |recipient of numerous awards and titles.

Designed by award-winning Simon Virsaladze, a People’s Artist of the USSR and laureate of the Lenin Prize and the State Awards of the USSR, the ballet is based on the novel “Spartacus” by Raffaello Giovagnoli. The dramatic and volatile score by Aram Khachaturian is one of the best-known works of the Russian ballet tradition.

The story follows the exploits of the leader of Thracian king, Spartacus, enslaved by the Roman consul Crassus. Spartacus leads a slave uprising against the Romans to rescue his wife Phrygia and other Thracian women.

“Le Corsaire” is based on the poem by Lord Byron. With music by Adolphe Adam, it was first performed at the Paris Grand Opera in 1856. The Bangkok production is choreographed and staged by Grigorovich.

The story follows Conrad, chief of the pirates, and Medora, the young Greek woman he loves. The action moves from the town of Andrianople, where he buys her, to the pirates’ lair and a pasha’s palace on the island of Cos. Medora is sold on to the pasha by Conrad’s right-hand-man. Conrad rescues her but is captured and sentenced to death.

These four Russian productions also mark the 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Russia.

The next ballet offering comes from France – “Beauty and the Beast” by Malandain Ballet Biarritz, set for October 2.

One of the most important companies on the French choreographic landscape, Malandain Ballet Biarritz, under the direction of Thierry Malandain, is recognised for its take on contemporary ballet.

Malandain looks at “Beauty and the Beast” not as the stereotypical fairytale romance but as dark coming-of-age story, an allegorical tale focusing on the portrayal of the artist’s inner demons through the Beast’s duality.

“Belle embodies the human soul and the Beast is its life force and instincts,” Malandain explains. Portraying the “lost” unity of human nature, accompanied by Tchaikovsky’s symphonic works, this version of the Beast, freed from his inner demons, marries Belle under a blazing sun.

The sets by Jorge Gallardo are inventive and the Louis XIV-era costumes with bell-skirted dresses and frock coats in muted gold are truly fantastic.

“Taming of the Shrew” by the Stuttgart Ballet on October 18 and 19, one of its hallmark productions, rounds off the ballet offerings this year.

John Cranko’s ballet, in two acts, is based on the classic William Shakespeare tale. Set to the music of Kurt-Heinz Stolze (after Domenico Scarlatti), this is one of the greatest ballet comedies of the 20th century. George Balanchine declared it “just as amusing to see in dance form as it is in the spoken theatre”.

A determined Petruchio is out to subdue the quick-tempered Katherine and make her an obedient wife. The comedy unfolds as Katherine lets her defences down and realises that Petruchio loves her for herself.

The cheerful music by Domenico Scarlatti, orchestrated by Kurt-Heinz Stolze, and the colourful costumes and sets by Elisabeth Dalton, evoke the sunlit streets of Padua, Italy, making it a delightful ballet perfect for the entire family.

The programme is not easy to pull off but for the support and sponsorship of the Crown Property Bureau, Bangkok Bank, Bangkok Dusit Medical Services, BMW Thailand, B Grimm Group, Dusit Thani Bangkok, Indorama Ventures, Ministry of Culture, Nation Group, PTT, Singha Corp, Thai Airways International and Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Classics on Top

– Seats are on sale at http://www.ThaiTicketMajor.com |and (02) 262 3191.

– Find out more at http://www.BangkokFestivals.com.

UK-based organic skincare brand, Neal’s Yard Remedies has a few simple solutions.

Heat–induces rashes

Heat takes a toll on the skin, and the skin has to release sweat to cool down. Sometimes, dirt and other build-ups clog the pores, so the skin cannot sweat properly, leading to rashes. Abrasive clothing can also makes things worse. So make sure your skin is clean. When you are sweaty, take a shower with anti-bacterial shower gel. Put an ice cube on your troubled area to relieve the symptom. If it persists, seek professional help from a dermatologist or a physician.

Sunburn

UV rays can be harsh on the skin, but sometimes we can’t avoid being in the sun, and we end up getting sunburnt. The best solution is trying to stay away from direct sun exposure as much as possible, and always put on enough sunscreen. Make sure you apply sunscreen on your face, neck, arms and legs 20-30 minutes before going out, and remember to reapply every 2-3 hours. If you have sensitive skin, wear protective clothing during the day. After a hot day, use a facial mask to restore the skin’s moisture and minimise the effects of the sun.

Acne

Heat, dirt and pollution can cause acne, because they clog the pores. Bacteria also spread faster in hot weather. Make sure your skin is clean all the time. Carry a face wash with you so you can cleanse your skin when needed. Wash your face three times a day, especially with the right cleanser at the end of your day for a thorough clean.

Bacteria

Bacteria, most of which are small and not visible to the naked eye, are present everywhere. Higher temperatures allow bacteria to spread faster. When you go to crowded places, you can pick up bacteria from other people without knowing it. Therefore, always keep your hands clean. Wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser. And break the face-touching habit!

Dry skin

Hot weather makes you thirsty, and your skin is thirsty too. When you sweat, your skin loses its natural moisture, leading to dryness and irritation. Dry skin is also more prone to sunburn. Being in an air-conditioned room can also dry your skin. It is not something to be taken lightly – when the skin gets dry, it produces oil to protect itself. Too much oil can lead to acne. The best way to hydrate yourself is to drink a lot of water. In this weather, drink some water every 30 minutes, or eat juicy fruits like watermelon and orange. Look for products that help control oil production and use a serum like Neal’s Yard Remedies’ Oil-Free Hydrating Serum (Bt2,080) to hydrate the skin.

Neal’s Yard Remedies Oil Free Hydrating Serum adds a layer of mattifying hydration, and is perfect for oily skin. It is a non-greasy formula that does not make the skin oily, while Willow Herb and Organic Rose work together to rehydrate for a smooth, plump and luminous complexion. It can be used alone to hydrate the skin and also works great as a make-up primer. This formula is suitable for all skin types, including men’s skin. Four key properties include the calming willow herb soothes and helps minimise the appearance of pores and restore the skin’s natural balance. Hydrolysed Rocket Leaf is packed with antioxidants to protect the skin naturally. Hyaluronic acid and rice extract rehydrate for a smooth, plump and luminous complexion. Shiitake mushroom extract is a rich source of kojic acid, which can be used to help brighten and promote healthy skin. It is believed to speed up the skin cell turnover rate.

Infusing microscopic water particles into foundation allows for unprecedented texture that melts into the skin.

This veil-like texture delivers a naturally translucent finish, as if skin is imbued with a dewy light. Cle de Peau Beaute’s Transmission Technology gives skin a luminous look and Advanced-Focus Powder energises the complexion. It’s available in four shades: Ivory, Ochre, Mocha and Beige.

Radiant foundations with a variety of distinctive textures spotlight beautiful skin with light-reflecting technology. Cle de Peau Beaute radiant stick foundation claims to show off your skin in the most beautiful light and delivers a radiance more stunning than naked skin could ever realise.

The brand, which comes under the Kose Corporation’s umbrella, has been well received by Thai women since its introduction here 11 years. Famous for its multi-liposome technology to retain moisture deep in the skin, Decorte’s best-sellers are “Moisture Liposome”, “AQ Meliority” a luxurious night cream, and “AQMW” a new line of prestigious products focusing on delivering nutrients to the skin to help with skin renewal. |Find out more at Facebook.com/cosmedecortethailand and http://www.Kose-th.com.

Pandora shows its appreciation

Jewellery brand Pandora says thanks this week to its customers by offering them a bracelet valued at Bt3,000 for every Bt8,000 spent. The campaign runs from today until Sunday at branches nationwide. Pandora is also introducing it summer collection that highlights rose-tinted glass, which includes the sparkling duo of the Rose Love Knots |pendant and stud earrings adorned with cubic zirconia stones that’s great for both office and evening wear.

Clothes to save a child’s life

Diesel was once again in full support mode at supermodel Naomi Campbell’s “Fashion For Relief” show held last Sunday in Cannes. The event helped raise much-needed funds for Save The Children’s vital work with children affected by refugee crises, wars and natural disasters around the world. For the show’s finale Campbell was joined by fellow models Heidi Klum, Kendall Jenner, Bella Hadid, Chris Lee, Natasha Poly, Jasmine Sanders and Isabeli Fontana on the catwalk in wearing the Child at Heart t-shirt. Diesel creative director Nicola Formichetti, created two exclusive looks for the fashion show.

Help for underprivileged kids

Kids21 invites the public to join its “Pankan” campaign, which collects good quality used kids products such as clothes, bags, shoes and accessories in sizes ranging from infant to 12 year-old. All benefits from the sale will be used to fund scholarships for the underprivileged children supported by the Yuwapat Foundation. The collecting point is at Kids21, |M Floor, The EmQuartier and donors will receive a gift in return until stocks last. |Find out more at http://www.PankanSociety.com. Facebook.com/pankansociety, call (02) 301 1096, (081) 903 6639 or (02) 254 2121.

All that glitters

Organised by the Thai Gem and Jewellery Traders Association (TGJTA), the inaugural Thailand Gems and Jewellery Fair is set to take place at Impact Muang Thong Thani from June 15-18 and is expected to attract more than 600 exhibitors from 30 gems |and jewellery-exporting countries as well |as Thailand’s own gem and jewellery |manufacturers and exporters.

The “Four Districts of Gems and Jewellery” exhibition will showcase interesting areas in Bangkok which are well-known shopping destinations for different types of gemstones. They include Mahesak Road (gems), Yaowarat Road (gold), Charoen Krung Road (silver), and Khao San, Silom and Surawong roads and the Baan Mor (gems). The fair will also feature an “Innovation Pavilion” as well as seminars and workshops.

Pandora is also introducing it summer collection that highlights rose-tinted glass. The sparkling duo of the Rose Love Knots pendant and stud earrings adorned with cubic zirconia stones looks great whether worn with an outfit for the office or for after-dark cocktails.

The Linked Love Ring comprises a series of connected hearts with beaded details that wraps itself around the finger, while the delicate shapes and shimmering cubic zirconia stones of the Dazzling Daisy Band and Dazzling Daisy Ring are guaranteed to catch the eye. Capturing the innocent beauty of the unassuming flower, these pieces are must-have additions to any ring stack.

For details, call the Call Centre at (02) 264 5080.

The event raised money for Save the Children’s efforts to assist young refugee and others affected by war and natural disaster.

Among the celebrities in attendance at the gala dinner were Arianna Alessi, Jeremy Renner, Anna Cleveland, Paris Hilton and Chris Zylka.

In the evening’s finale, Campbell – wearing a “Child at Heart” T-shirt – led a parade of famous models including Heidi Klum, Kendall Jenner, Bella Hadid, Chris Lee, Natasha Poly, Jasmine Sanders and Isabeli Fontana.

In April the clothing brand Diesel joined Campbell in launching “a collection that cares”, a line of T-shirts and hoodies featuring children’s artwork. It’s available at Diesel stores around the world.

Campbell pitched the idea to Diesel founder Renzo Rosso, who spearheads philanthropic initiatives through his Only the Brave Foundation, which aims to “rebalance social inequality and contribute to the sustainable development of less-advantaged people”.

The Fashion for Relief Show in Cannes was the second chapter in a successful collaboration to support children caught in humanitarian crises, such as the Syrian conflict.

Diesel creative director Nicola Formichetti created looks for men and women for the fashion show, disassembling popular Diesel items to add fresh appeal.

Nicole Kidman wore an Armani Privee flounced dress skirt embroidered with an arabesque design.

Marion Cotillard had her Privee custom-made, a bustier gown covered in midnight-blue crystal netting, with a plunging neckline and an organza-edged slit.

Jessica Chastain’s Armani Privee was a mermaid-cut gown in curry-coloured silk satin with a halter neck and broad train featuring a bow.

Juliette Binoche’s was ice blue in silk crepe with a plunging neckline and tubular details in black silk velvet.

Claudia Cardinale, one of the honourees at this year’s anniversary celebration, wore a Giorgio Armani embroidered with sky blue and white opal crystals and a ton-sur-ton chiffon stole.

Director Pedro Almodovar, president of the festival jury this year, wore a classic Armani tuxedo, as did Paolo Sorrentino, a jury member, and Sergio Castellitto.

Valeria Bruni Tedeschi wore a long Armani dress in embroidered tulle with layer of printed silk.

Margareth Mazzantini was in Armani midnight blue gown with embroidery.

Barbara Palvin’s Privee silk velvet bustier dress featured a heart-shaped plunge.

The fair will allow visitors to enjoy organic-related activities through a “Well-Being Passport” that will take them into four unique organic farms. At the “Organic Vegetable Farm”, for example, you can check out whether you have consumed the recommended 400 grams of vegetables, and get an additional 400g of nutritious produces.

Check blood sugar and mental acumen at the “Clinic Farm” and benefit from a host of medical advisory services. At the “Lemon Farm Organic PGS” you’ll meet organic farmers and discover their local dishes, which include moji rice wrapped in red beans, biscuits made from rice, rice ice cream, and gooseberry frappuccino known for the high anti-oxidant properties. The last stop is the “Organic Vegetable Production” zone where you can learn the simple way to grow organic produce.

“The contemporary lifestyle poses risks to health. Alcohol consumption, smoking, lack of exercise, stress, and insufficient sleep all are conducive to non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, stroke and heart failure, emphysema, cancer, high blood pressure, obesity and chronic renal failure,” says Nunthavat Navaratpong, chief executive officer of Paradise Park.

“To minimise the risks, the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends daily consumption of 400g to 600g of vegetables and fruits. The fair aims to raise consumption awareness and encourage eating organic vegetables and fruits daily.”

Shoppers can take home organic vegetables, organic milk, black beans, sweet potatoes, and black sesame seeds that are free of non-dairy creamer and full of protein, calcium and folate. At the health corner, visitors will be allowed to create their own healthy bowl by selecting organic vegetables and a variety of salad dressings.

Giving craft beer aficionados something new and exciting to look forward to, the popular rooftop bar is organising a special themed evening centred around everything Japanese.

On May 31, Brewski at Radisson Blu Plaza hotel will be celebrating Japan’s lively craft beer culture and delicious cuisine. From putting select Japanese craft beers on tap and serving Japanese snacks to putting DJ Hidemasa Mitsui in charge of live entertainment for the night, everything will be in the spirit of the Land of the Rising Sun.

Upbeat live music from 8pm to midnight and the incomparable views from Brewski’s 30th floor terrace promises to make this a night to remember.

“At Brewski we want to create a connection between our guests, the craft beer, the place it was brewed and our venue. That’s why we are dedicating an entire evening to celebrating Japan, its culture and their rich craft beer scene,” says Radisson BLU Plaza’s General Manager Peter Feran.

Brewski is open daily from 5pm to 1am. For more information, visit http://www.venuesbkk.com/rooftop-craft-beer-bar-brewski.php, or call (02) 302 3333.