Text and photo by RICHARD FORD. The entertainment extravaganza titled “Puttin’ On The Ritz” Charity Night produced by the Philippine community entertainment group Maharlika, Inc, at the Five Dock RSL Club last 5th October has drawn the patronage by many including officials of Alliance of Philippine Community Organisations or APCO.
Enjoying the show together with a group of 20 individuals were APCO President Jhun Zalasar and wife Sarah, as well as APCO stalwarts Ruben Amores and wife Dr Cen Amores who is currently serving as NSW government designated civic assignment as People Ambassador.
“Puttin’ on the Ritz“ was a popular song written and published in 1929 by Irving Berlin and introduced by Harry Richman in the musical film Puttin’ on the Ritz (1930). The title derives from the slang expression “putting on the Ritz,” meaning to dress very fashionably.
When one (usually a male) dresses up to go out looking suave and debonair with shoes shined, pants pressed, shirt ironed, clean socks, a jacket and a hat, he is said to be “puttin’ on the Ritz.”. The expression was inspired by the swanky Ritz Hotel.
Ms Adele Ramos with Albert Prias emceed the event.. Finger food was in abundance and the music and entertainment was fast-paced, so much packed into such a thrilling and glittering night.
“Puttin’ the Ritz Charity raises funds for charity each year, with this year’s recipient being “The Ruby Tagaro’s Foundation” within the Agusan del Sur Parish Community located in Mindanao, Philippines which was severely affected by massive storms and floodwaters that virtually washed away everything in its path last year.
With this in mind, the event was well attended and stacked with so much fun – one could think they were transported back in time. The entertainment was provided by an array of performers, such as Sidney Perez, Espie and Ray Megino of Re-Groove Band, the Maharlika Dancers headed by President Rudy Reyes, Victor Valdez and the VIP Sydney Dancerz, Leo Alisaab and finally the theme song performed by Albert Prias.
The night would not be complete without the chance to dance away to Puttin’ on the Ritz.