ADVERTORIAL - Guests at the Protea Hotel King George will soon be asked to put their trust in someone else's hands - and then enjoy their starter in complete darkness.
The experience is part of BVSA's annual social investment dinner, Dinner in the Dark, first held with the hotel in 2025. The event returns this year after several requests from the public for another evening.
From the welcome at the hotel entrance to the final prize of the night, young people will take the lead on Friday 23 October. Guests will be guided past an exhibition of artwork by York School learners before enjoying a welcome drink and performances by Carpe Diem's marimba band and choir.
At about 18:30, one person in each couple will be blindfolded and guided towards the dining room by their partner, with the children helping along the way. Both guests will then enter the room in complete darkness. Their starter will be described to them before they eat it without being able to see it.
The lights will be dimmed for the rest of the three-course meal, accompanied by music, singing and dance performances by the children. The organisers say the opening experience is meant to be fun, while offering a reminder of the value of trust, guidance and support.
Entertainment by young dancers.
The evening also gives the young performers and hosts a chance to show their creativity and leadership. All ticket proceeds will go towards Christian leadership development among young people.
This year's beneficiaries are the Herolds Bay Youth Beach Service Team and Carpe Diem.
The beach service team will use its share to help fund a 12-day December programme serving people in Herolds Bay, George and the surrounding area. Under adult guidance, young members will help run the programme and develop their leadership skills. Carpe Diem will use funds through its Ukuwela programme to support learners in need.
BVSA thanked the sponsors who make this event possible and said it hopes the dinner will grow into a lasting platform for young people's talents and ideas.
Tickets are R400 per person. The organisers say the tables are almost sold out. Enquiries: Maritza on 074 969 4046 (WhatsApp).
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
