LOS ANGELES, March 28, 2012
Asia Society Southern California
2012 Annual Gala Dinner

On March 28, the Asia Society Southern California Center held its 2012 Annual Gala Dinner at the historic Millennium Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. An evening in support of Asia Society and its innovative programs, the Gala featured a keynote address from Sidney Rittenberg ( 李敦白 Lǐ Dūnbái), who will receive the 2012 Visionary of the Year award. The Gala also honored C. L. Max Nikias, President of the University of Southern California, as the 2012 Education Leader of the Year; and Y. H. Cho, Chairman and CEO of Korean Air and Chairman of Hanjin Group, as the 2012 Asian Business Leader of the Year.

The evening festivities began with the rousing sound of Taiko drummers inviting all guests to the ornate Crystal Ballroom. Guests were welcomed by the sound of traditional Balinese music and Panyembrama dance, an offering of welcome and goodwill. The evening’s emcee was Janet Yang, producer of such films as “The Joy Luck Club”, “The People vs. Larry Flint”, and “Dark Matter.” More recently, Ms. Yang was the producer for the made in Shanghai, “Disney High School Musical: China.” Dinner guests were also treated to a wonderful performance by pianist Pauline Yang of USC Thornton School of Music. The Gala Dinner closed with a thoughtful and poignant discussion with Sidney Rittenberg. A standing ovation for Sidney Rittenberg was a wonderful ending to an entertaining and informative evening.