By Domnica Lazar

The fourth Russian Imperial Charity Ball in Ireland was held at its regular venue the Clontarf Castle Hotel on 21 October.

Established in 2014 by the Russian Bridge Organisation of Ireland with the support of the Assembly of the Russian Nobility of USA, the ball has become a significant event on the cultural calendar for Russians in Ireland.

The black-tie event stands out for its spectacular atmosphere in one of Dublin’s most fashionable venues, which hosted around 150 guests from Russia, Ireland, Europe and the United States.

This year’s gala programme featured famous Russian movie stars  Alika Smekhova and Olga Kabo, while Latvian singer Julia Vilumane opened the ball with arias from Russian opera.

The guest list had a number of well-known public figures, including Russian Ambassador to Ireland Iurii Filatov; charity ball chairperson Feodor Yakimoff; and former Irish Ambassador to Russia, Filip McDaid.

Also in attendance were local entrepreneurs such as Costel Barzu of DasCoin Cryptocurrency; Conor McGregor’s team massage therapist Vasile Bria; Vincent Connolly of Claddagh Café & Vend; Victor Matasa, director of the EuroEast advertising company; and private GPs Dr Diana Finnegan and Dr Albina Maksimiuk, among many others.

Also featured at each table were six handmade dolls made by children from orphanages throughout Russia. All funds raised from the auction of these dolls on the night will go to nominated Russian charity  Missia, founded by Margarita Bouriak in 2004 to help orphans and children without parental support.

“We don’t have yet the exact figures of the raised money as we expect to get the final results from the auction, raffle and donation department, but there is around €7,000 raised at the event,” said one of the ball’s organisers, Anastasia MacCabe.

“It was not the first time I attended a black tie event, but this time was an exclusive one,” said Colstel Barzu. “The reception with champagne right at the entrance, the fabulous location, the Michelin-worthy food, the Russian music and poetry, great friendly atmosphere – it was amazing. We will look forward to the next one.”

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